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Dental Implants

Full Arch Implant Solutions in Vancouver, BC

Full arch implant solutions (including All-on-4 and All-on-6) replace an entire arch of missing or failing teeth with a fixed prosthesis (one that does not come out) supported by 4-6 strategically placed dental implants, without the need for an individual implant for each tooth. In many cases, a provisional set of teeth can be attached on the day of surgery.

Quick Answer

Full arch implant solutions (including All-on-4 and All-on-6) replace an entire arch of missing or failing teeth with a fixed prosthesis (one that does not come out) supported by 4-6 strategically placed dental implants, without the need for an individual implant for each tooth. In many cases, a provisional set of teeth can be attached on the day of surgery.

Is Full Arch Implant Solutions Right for You?

Good Candidates
  • ✓Adults missing all or most teeth in the upper or lower arch
  • ✓Those with failing teeth that need full arch extraction
  • ✓Current denture wearers seeking a fixed, non-removable solution
  • ✓Patients frustrated with loose, uncomfortable removable dentures
  • ✓Those who want to eat, speak, and smile with confidence again
  • ✓Individuals with moderate bone loss (angled implants can often avoid bone grafting)
May Not Be Suitable
  • ✗Patients with severe, untreatable bone loss in key areas
  • ✗Active smokers unwilling to quit during healing (high failure risk)
  • ✗Those with uncontrolled diabetes or compromised immune function
  • ✗Patients who cannot undergo surgical procedures
  • ✗Individuals seeking the lowest-cost tooth replacement option
  • ✗Those missing only a few teeth (other implant options are more appropriate)

How Full Arch Implant Solutions Works

Our step-by-step process ensures optimal results and patient comfort

1

Comprehensive Consultation

We perform a thorough examination, take 3D CBCT scans, and discuss your goals. We evaluate bone density and plan the optimal implant positions using advanced digital software.

2

Treatment Planning & Design

Your new smile is digitally designed before surgery. We create surgical guides for precise implant placement and design your provisional (temporary) teeth so that, in many cases, you can leave with a smile the same day.

3

Extraction & Implant Placement

Under sedation, any remaining teeth are extracted. Four to six implants are strategically placed in the jawbone—angled posteriorly to maximize bone contact and stability, often avoiding the need for bone grafts.

4

Provisional Teeth, Often the Same Day

In many cases, a functional provisional arch is attached to your implants the same day, so you can smile and eat soft foods while you heal. Whether this is right for you depends on how stable the implants are at surgery; we talk it through at your consultation.

5

Healing Period

Over 3-6 months, implants integrate with your jawbone. You'll wear your provisional teeth during this time and attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

6

Final Prosthesis Delivery

Once fully healed, impressions are taken for your final, custom-made prosthesis. Made from high-strength zirconia or acrylic with porcelain, it's designed for optimal aesthetics, durability, and function.

Safety & Aftercare

Safety Considerations
  • •Angled implant placement maximizes bone use and often eliminates need for grafting
  • •Sedation helps keep you comfortable during longer procedures
  • •3D planning and surgical guides help place each implant precisely
  • •Provisional teeth are attached on the day of surgery only when the implants are stable enough
Aftercare Instructions
  • •Follow a soft/liquid diet for the first 2-4 weeks (smoothies, soups, mashed foods)
  • •Gradually progress to softer solid foods as directed by your dentist
  • •Take all prescribed medications (antibiotics, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory)
  • •Rinse gently with prescribed mouthwash; avoid vigorous swishing
  • •No smoking for at least 3-6 months (ideally permanently)
  • •Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for monitoring
  • •Clean prosthesis daily with soft brush; use water flosser around implants

Cost & Investment Factors

Understanding your investment in Full Arch Implant Solutions

  • $Number of implants (All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 approaches)
  • $Whether extractions are needed and how many
  • $Bone grafting requirements (often avoided with angled implants)
  • $Material for final prosthesis (acrylic vs. zirconia—zirconia costs more but lasts longer)
  • $Sedation type (local vs. IV sedation vs. general anesthesia)
  • $Many patients find this more cost-effective long-term than individual implants or repeated denture replacements

Ask us for a quote: we give you a personalized treatment plan and cost estimate before treatment begins. We bill most insurance plans directly, offer payment plans, and accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).

Where we offer this

We offer Full Arch Implant Solutions at all four Smile Well Dental clinics.

North Vancouver
Langley
Trusted Dental Implant Expertise
Why patients across British Columbia choose Smile Well Dental for Full Arch Implant Solutions
Experience

Our dentists plan every implant with you, from the first consultation and 3D imaging to the final crown or bridge.

Credentials

Our dentists are registered with the BC College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP), the regulator for dentists in British Columbia.

Patient Safety

We use 3D CBCT imaging for precise planning and follow strict sterilization protocols for every procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Full Arch Implant Solutions

All-on-4 uses four implants to support a full arch of teeth, with two implants placed at angles in the back for maximum stability. All-on-6 uses six implants for potentially greater support, often recommended for the lower jaw or patients with stronger bite forces. Both provide excellent, long-lasting results.

Often, yes. When the implants are stable enough for a same-day (immediate loading) protocol, we place the implants and attach a functional provisional prosthesis in a single appointment. This provisional set isn't your final teeth, but you leave with a complete smile that lets you eat soft foods and function while you heal. We will tell you at your consultation whether same-day teeth are right for you.

The implants themselves can last a lifetime with proper care. The prosthesis (the visible teeth) typically lasts 15-20+ years for zirconia and 10-15 years for acrylic before needing replacement. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits extend longevity.

Absolutely. Modern full arch prostheses are crafted to look incredibly natural, with realistic tooth shapes, colors, and even gum tissue appearance. We customize every aspect to complement your face and desired smile aesthetics.

The procedure is done under anesthesia, usually with sedation, so most patients feel little during surgery. Post-operative discomfort varies but is typically manageable with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report less pain than expected.

For the first 2-4 weeks, stick to soft foods and liquids. Over the following months, gradually reintroduce firmer foods. Once your final prosthesis is placed and fully healed, you can enjoy most foods—including those impossible with traditional dentures like steak and apples.

If you're unhappy with loose, uncomfortable dentures, full arch implants are worth discussing with us. They do not need denture adhesive, help preserve the jawbone, and stay fixed in place, so they are more stable than a removable denture. We can compare the options at a consultation.

One advantage of All-on-4 is that angled posterior implants can often utilize available bone and avoid grafting. However, if significant bone loss exists, we may recommend bone grafting or zygomatic implants (placed in the cheekbone). We'll determine the best approach during consultation.

Daily cleaning is essential: brush your prosthesis with a soft brush, use a water flosser to clean under and around the implant connections, and attend professional cleanings every 4-6 months. Your hygienist may use special tools to access areas beneath the prosthesis.

Coverage varies by plan. Many dental insurance policies now cover a portion of implant procedures. Medical insurance may contribute if teeth were lost due to accident or disease. We'll help you navigate insurance and offer financing options for the remaining balance.

Full arch implants (All-on-4/All-on-6) are permanently fixed—you cannot remove them. Implant-supported dentures (overdentures) snap onto implants but can be removed for cleaning. Fixed full arch solutions offer greater stability, chewing efficiency, and typically a more natural feel.

Most patients take 2-5 days off work for initial recovery. Swelling and bruising typically peak at day 2-3 and subside within a week. Soft diet continues for 2-4 weeks. Full integration takes 3-6 months, but you'll have functional teeth throughout the healing process.

Ready to Explore Full Arch Implant Solutions?

Schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. We'll discuss your options, answer your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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