Replacing a full arch of teeth with implants: treatment and cost

Replacing all the teeth in one jaw needs a plan for the whole arch, not simply a price for one implant multiplied by the number of missing teeth. The restoration, the bone available and your ability to clean it all affect the choice.

A removable implant-retained denture and a fixed implant bridge are different options. The former comes out for cleaning; the latter stays in place and needs cleaning beneath it. A conventional denture may also be suitable.

Assessment comes first

The dentist examines your mouth, reviews your health and medicines, and arranges the imaging needed for planning. If teeth remain, their condition is assessed individually. Full-arch implant treatment does not automatically mean removing every remaining tooth.

The number and position of implants depend on the restoration and clinical findings. A fixed bridge and a removable denture have different support requirements, so a general range of implant numbers is not a prescription for your treatment.

Bone can change after teeth are lost. Some people need grafting or a sinus lift, while others have enough bone for a suitable plan without these procedures. Grafting adds its own risks, costs and healing time.

Surgery, healing and temporary teeth

Implant placement is usually carried out with local anaesthetic. Your team should explain pain control, recovery and the risks relevant to you. Healing is assessed over time; an implant can fail to integrate, and the schedule may need to change.

Discuss temporary teeth before any extractions or surgery. In selected cases, a temporary fixed restoration can be fitted early. In others, a removable denture or a different arrangement is needed. There may be periods when a denture should not be worn. Do not assume that every patient can leave each appointment with fixed teeth.

Once the implants are ready, impressions or scans and fitting appointments are used to make the final restoration. The dentist checks the bite, appearance and access for cleaning. Follow the diet and cleaning advice for your particular stage of treatment.

What should the estimate include?

Some listed fees that may be relevant are:

• Implant consultation and treatment plan: £80.
• Bone grafting before implant treatment, if needed: from £120, plus material costs.
• Sinus lift, if needed: from £800.

These are individual services, not the total price of a full arch. The implant fees page gives current listed prices, but you need an individual written estimate for the proposed restoration.

Check that it accounts for investigations, any extractions, implants, abutments, temporary teeth and the final bridge or denture. The abutment is not included in either the implant or crown price. Ask which additional appointments or repairs would be charged separately.

If you are considering instalments, read the current finance information and the proposed agreement. Availability depends on eligibility and terms; compare the total payable as well as the monthly payment.

Living with the new teeth

Allow time to adapt to the restoration and learn the cleaning routine. You will need to clean the implant attachments or beneath a fixed bridge every day, and attend reviews. Components may wear or loosen, and repairs or replacement can be needed later.

Implants do not make the surrounding tissues immune to disease or guarantee a lifetime result. Report persistent soreness, bleeding or movement to the practice. Before starting, ask how maintenance will be arranged and budgeted for.

Read more about implant-retained dentures or contact the practice to discuss your options.