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All upper teeth supported by 4 implants technique
Description
The technique consists of extracting all hopeless teeth, placing only 4 implants and fabricating a full upper fixed prosthesis without a covered palate.
Benefits for the patient: Single surgery, no need to do sinus lifts, only four implants instead of 6 or 8 as used by most of the surgeons, faster time for final prosthesis, very predictable, minimal risk, and reduced overall cost. It can be done with prosthesis placed the day of the implant placement (immediately).
Case: A 56 year old female patient had history of mulitple bridges that failed with time. She did not want sinus lift procedures and cost was an issue. Since, she had only 3 teeth with good prognosis, all teeth had to be extracted. The patient had all implants placed the day of the extractions. Six months later a fixed prosthesis was attached to the implants. The patient has excellent function with fixed teeth, no covered palate and great esthetic. Her teeth can only be removed by the restorative dentist.
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Radiographs with all the preexisting teeth: Due to limited amount of teeth, it is impossible to restore the upper arch unless implants are placed. The arrows represent the position of the maxillary sinus. Without any augmentive procedure (sinus lift), it is impossible to place implants in the posterior area. |
Final photo the case. A completely fixed prosthesis was placed over the four implants. This prosthesis, different from conventional dentures, has no coverage over the palate of the patient.
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Final radiographs of the healed implants supporting the fixed prosthesis: Four implants were placed avoiding the maxillary sinus. The posterior implants are placed in a tilted position for greater posterior support. |
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Length
Average 3 hours or more
Cases are followed closely for 6 months prior to final prosthesis
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After surgery
Temporary soreness, some face swelling.
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Recovery
Back to work: After 2-3 days
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Risk
Implant loss due to over loading ( soft food is recommended). Infection could appear if the extracted teeth were severely infected and antibiotics were not taken as recommended.
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Results
Very predictable. Dental implants supporting a fixed prosthesis. They do not need to be removed at a later time unless problems appear.
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Patient Status
Outpatient. Not need to go to a hospital
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Anesthesia
Local without any need for IV sedation. Oral sedation can be used ocaccionally.
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