If you're missing most or all of your teeth on the top, the bottom, or both, you may have heard about full arch dental implants. This guide explains what they are, how the process works, and what you can expect to pay.
At Blake Nelson, DDS, we want you to feel fully informed before you make any decision about your smile. Let's walk through it together.
What Are Full Arch Dental Implants?
Full arch dental implants replace an entire row of teeth using just a handful of implants instead of one implant per tooth. You may also hear this treatment called All-on-4 or All-on-X.
An "arch" simply means one full row of teeth, either your upper jaw or your lower jaw. Instead of replacing each missing tooth one at a time, this treatment anchors a complete, fixed set of teeth to a small number of implants placed in your jawbone.
What's the Difference Between All-on-4 and All-on-X?
All-on-4 uses four implants to hold up a full arch of teeth. All-on-X is the same basic idea, but it may use five or six implants instead, depending on your jawbone.
Your dentist and oral surgeon decide which option fits you best after looking at your jaw structure with a 3D scan. Neither option is better in general; the right number of implants simply depends on your mouth.
How Is This Different from Regular Dentures?
Regular dentures rest on your gums and can be removed. Full arch implants are fixed in place and function much more like your natural teeth.
You won't need denture adhesive, and you won't have to take your teeth out at night. Your new teeth stay secured to the implants, so you can eat, speak, and smile without worrying about slipping.
Who Places the Implants, and Who Makes Your New Teeth?
Two different specialists work together on your case, and each one focuses on a different part of your treatment. This teamwork is part of what makes the process go smoothly.
A board-certified oral surgeon places your implants. Oral surgeons spend their careers focused specifically on procedures like this, using 3D imaging to plan exactly where each implant should go.
Once your jawbone has healed around the implants, Dr. Nelson and our in-house team design and create your final teeth. We use digital scanning and our own milling equipment to make your new teeth right in our Winston-Salem office, which means we control the fit, the color, and the timeline from start to finish.
What Happens on Surgery Day?
You'll receive your implants and walk out the same day with a full set of temporary teeth already in place. You are never left without teeth during the healing process.
Full arch surgery takes longer than a typical dental visit, so we use sedation to keep you comfortable. Most patients remember very little of the procedure itself and describe the day as going by quickly.
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
Surgery day itself usually takes a few hours, and healing typically takes a few months before your final teeth are ready. During that healing time, you'll wear and use your temporary teeth normally.
Once your jawbone has fully healed around the implants, we replace your temporary teeth with your final set. These are custom-made from a strong, natural-looking material called zirconia, which resists stains and holds up well to everyday use.
Will It Hurt?
Your procedure is done under IV sedation, so you shouldn't feel pain during surgery itself. Afterward, we'll give you clear instructions to help you recover as comfortably as possible.
Most patients say the recovery is more manageable than they expected. If you have questions or concerns about pain, ask us directly. We're happy to walk you through exactly what to expect.
What Does Full Arch Treatment Cost?
Full arch treatment at our office costs $30,000 per arch, and that price covers your entire treatment from start to finish. Here's exactly what's included:
- Surgical placement of your implants by a board-certified oral surgeon
- IV sedation for your procedure
- Your temporary teeth, worn while you heal
- Your final, custom-made zirconia teeth
Some practices advertise a lower starting price, then add separate fees for sedation, temporary teeth, or your final restoration. Our price covers the full journey up front, so you know what to expect before you begin.
We accept and file dental insurance, and we offer financing options to help make treatment fit your budget. Give us a call to talk through your specific situation and what your insurance may cover.
Am I a Candidate for Full Arch Implants?
You may be a good candidate if you're missing most or all of your teeth in one arch, or if you have several failing teeth that will likely need to come out. The best way to know for sure is a consultation.
During your consultation, we'll take a 3D scan of your jaw to check your bone structure. From there, we can build a treatment plan made specifically for you.
What Should You Do Next?
If missing or failing teeth are affecting your confidence or your ability to eat comfortably, it may be time for a conversation about your options. Full arch implants are a big decision, and we want you to feel confident and informed before moving forward.
Call Blake Nelson, DDS at (336) 760-1277 to schedule your consultation. We proudly serve patients throughout Winston-Salem and the surrounding Piedmont Triad area.
