A full-arch fixed prosthesis is a life-changing solution for individuals who have lost most or all of their teeth. This innovative treatment provides a permanent, natural-looking replacement, restoring function, aesthetics, and confidence. While major implant centers heavily advertise full-mouth solutions, their high prices often make treatment unattainable for many. At Spring St. Dental, we have developed a streamlined workflow in collaboration with our in-house oral surgeon to offer the same high-quality results at nearly half the cost of big-name competitors like ClearChoice. By integrating advanced technology and producing restorations in-house, we provide a cost-effective alternative without compromising quality or long-term patient care.
What Is a Full-Arch Fixed Prosthesis?
A full-arch fixed prosthesis is a permanent, implant-supported solution designed to replace an entire row of missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums and may slip or require adhesives, this restoration is securely anchored to dental implants, ensuring greater stability, comfort, and durability. A full-arch fixed prosthesis offers numerous advantages over removable dentures, making it a preferred choice for long-term tooth replacement.
- Fixed and secure: The prosthesis is anchored by dental implants, ensuring stability without slipping or discomfort.
- Natural appearance: A full-arch fixed prosthesis is designed to replicate the look and function of real teeth, providing a seamless, natural-looking smile that enhances facial structure.
- Improved chewing ability: Unlike dentures, which can limit your diet, a full-arch fixed prosthesis restores full chewing function, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods.
- Long-term durability: With proper care and maintenance, this prosthesis is designed to last for many years, making it a wise long-term investment.
With these benefits, it’s easy to see why so many patients choose a full-arch fixed prosthesis over traditional dentures. The stability, aesthetics, and functionality make it a reliable solution for full-mouth restoration.
Preserving the bone in your jaw and face is of utmost importance to your cosmetic dentist, and as such, treatments that preserve bone are preferred over those that lead to bone shrinkage, known as resorption.
Dental implants preserve bone by mimicking the tooth’s natural roots, stimulating and preserving the bone. As part of the healing process following surgical placement, the jawbone fuses directly to the implant. Most often made of titanium, dental implants provide a very stable foundation for a replacement tooth. This foundation is so stable that it can serve as an anchor point for dental bridgework and will feel, look, and function as your natural tooth would.
The process of implant to bone fusion is known as “osseointegration.” Fusion is primarily dependent upon the quality of bone surrounding the implant, and can be achieved in three to nine months following dental implant treatment. Excessive smoking or drinking can stunt the healing process and lead to complications.
Because bone resorption is prevented with dental implants, your facial structure will not collapse and your facial shape will not change. Missing teeth that are replaced by implants avoid other problems commonly associated with tooth loss, including other teeth shifting into the open spaces created by the missing teeth, and functional problems with the jaw joints and bite alignment.
Once a tooth is extracted or falls out, a great deal of the bone in the area will shrink, or resorb over the coming year. Shrinkage occurs in a horizontal as well as vertical dimension. Most resorption occurs within the first two to three months following tooth loss. When a cosmetic dentist replaces that tooth immediately with a titanium dental implant, the bone fuses around the implant, significantly reducing bone shrinkage.
Dental implants are the only restorative treatment that preserves and maintains bone. Dentures and partial dentures can accelerate the process of bone shrinkage as a result of pressure on the underlying mouth structures as you talk or eat.
How Our Process Stands Out
Many patients assume full-arch dental implants are financially out of reach, but that’s no longer the case. By refining our treatment workflow, leveraging advanced technology, and producing restorations in-house, we can offer a cost-effective alternative to corporate implant centers. Many well-known implant centers charge $30,000 per arch, pricing out many individuals in need of full-mouth restoration. Our practice offers the same level of expertise and high-quality restorations at a significantly lower price.
- Standard full-arch fixed prosthesis: $23,500 per arch
- In-house printed final restoration: $17,500 per arch
By producing the final prosthesis in-house, we cut costs without compromising quality, giving patients an affordable option for permanent tooth replacement.
A Cost-Effective Alternative Between Removable and Zirconia
In the past, patients who couldn’t afford a zirconia full-arch prosthesis had to settle for a removable denture, which lacked the stability and permanence of a fixed solution. Now, we offer a mid-range fixed option, providing the strength and security of a fixed prosthesis at a price closer to a removable implant retained denture. This new option allows more patients to enjoy the benefits of a secure, long-lasting full-arch restoration without breaking the bank.
In the past, replacing lost teeth meant getting dentures or bridges. Even though these offered the best way at the time to restore your mouth’s appearance and function, technology has improved through the development of dental implants. The main drawbacks of bridges and dentures is that they do not feel or look just like real teeth, and it is difficult to chew tough foods. The advantage of implants is that they look and perform so well that you can’t even tell they are not your natural teeth.
Made from titanium, dental implants are screws that are surgically placed directly into your jawbone. They are light and malleable, but durable and strong. The titanium screws are implanted into your jawbone and given time to heal. Once healing is complete, one or multiple crowns are placed on top of the implant to recreate your missing teeth. One implant can hold more than one screw, so it is possible to attach as many crowns as needed to replace your missing teeth.
Dental implants look so much like real teeth that others won’t even be able to tell that you have any artificial teeth. You might even forget about it yourself, as they feel real as well. Since the implants are securely placed in your jaw, they are as strong as real teeth and you are able to chew and bite anything that you would normally eat. Another great thing about implants is that they don’t impact any of your adjacent healthy teeth. While bridges and dentures can sometimes damage neighboring teeth because those teeth are necessary for support, implants avoid this problem. You are left with a fully restored and comfortable smile.
The Full-Arch Fixed Prosthesis Process
From the initial consultation to the final restoration, each step of the full-arch fixed prosthesis process is designed to ensure comfort, precision, and long-term success.
By all accounts, missing teeth negatively impacts a person’s quality of life. Smiling, laughing, eating and speaking just aren’t the same when there are holes left by teeth that used to be there. Instead of going through life with missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures, consider the cutting-edge option of dental implants.
An increasingly popular restoration, dental implants are one of the most requested procedures in dentistry. They involve surgically inserting a titanium post directly into the jaw so that it fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once the area has healed, an artificial tooth is placed on top of the titanium post to provide a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing new tooth.
One of the reasons for the success of dental implants is that they have the edge over the other options because of the benefits. They provide a very long-lasting, durable solution because they literally will last your entire life with proper hygiene and checkups. Implants are a one-time investment in your smile.
Implants do not negatively affect other teeth since placement doesn’t tamper with adjacent teeth. Implants are good for your jawbone because bones require stimulation to maintain strength and density. Your facial structure also benefits when you have a complete set of teeth, instead of ending up with a saggy, unsupported looking face.
Dental implants are both convenient and comfortable. No special care is required, such as with dentures, because normal brushing and flossing is all that’s needed. Implants are securely in place in your mouth and become part of your body; you won’t even realize you have them. You’ll also be able to continue eating the foods you love since no diet restrictions are necessary with implants.
Another great thing about dental implants is they help boost your self-esteem. You’ll enjoy a whole new level of confidence when you can smile, laugh, talk and eat without worrying about missing teeth. If you choose to get dental implants, you can expect your quality of life to improve.
We treat patients from Bastrop and the surrounding area.
If you’ve been wearing dentures for a while, you may have some complaints. They might fit poorly and shift or click when you talk or eat. Poor fit can lead to discomfort and sores in the mouth that worsen over time, or they can collect food underneath them, leading to bad breath.
If this sounds familiar to you, there might be alternatives for you. One of the newest developments in dentures is the pairing of standard dentures with dental implants. The dental implants are placed directly into your jawbone, providing the kind of stability only previously offered by natural teeth. Dentures fixed in the mouth with dental implants become something new: hybrid dentures.
Dentures that utilize dental implants as their anchors are very stable. They enable denture wearers to enjoy foods previously denied them, such as crisp, healthy foods or chewy cuts of meat. Eliminating the food restrictions present for many denture wearers allows them to eat a wider variety of foods, helping to reduce the risk of poor nutrition and the poor health associated with it, including digestion difficulties.
Because of this increased stability, the denture itself can be made smaller. A standard denture covers the roof of the mouth completely, inhibiting the taste and texture of foods. A denture designed around dental implants, however, has an open roof and facilitates a greater enjoyment of foods of all kinds, as well as a more natural feel for your tongue.
Dental implants also stimulate bone by mimicking natural tooth roots. This stimulation allows the bone to continue to be strong and alive, whereas the bones of the face can begin to shrink once a tooth has been extracted. This bone shrinkage leads directly to poor denture fit. Dental implants used with dentures avoid this issue.
If you are a denture wearer and you’d like to see some changes in how your dentures fit, talk to your dentist to see how using dental implants can improve your denture experience.
Consultation and Treatment Planning
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, during which we assess your oral health, discuss treatment goals, and determine the best prosthesis option for your needs. Digital scans and imaging are taken to create a customized treatment plan. Our team will walk you through available restoration options and pricing, ensuring you understand your choices.
Implant Placement Surgery
Our in-house oral surgeon performs the implant placement procedure in a state-of-the-art surgical suite. Typically, four to six implants per arch are placed to provide maximum stability. The procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort. After the surgery, you’ll receive detailed post-op instructions to promote smooth healing and integration of the implants.
Temporary Prosthesis Placement
While your implants heal, a custom temporary prosthesis is placed to restore aesthetics and function, allowing you to enjoy a complete smile immediately after surgery. The temporary prosthesis is carefully designed to maintain comfort and functionality during the healing process.
Healing and Osseointegration
The implants will fuse with your jawbone over the next three to six months, creating a strong and durable foundation for your final prosthesis. Regular follow-up visits will monitor healing and ensure everything is progressing smoothly. Patients must maintain good oral hygiene and follow dietary restrictions during this period.
Final Prosthesis Fabrication and Placement
After the healing process, we craft and place your permanent prosthesis. Patients can choose between the traditional zirconia full-arch restoration ($23,500 per arch) or the in-house printed final restoration ($17,500 per arch). Both options provide exceptional durability and aesthetics, allowing you to enjoy a fully functional and natural-looking smile.
Ongoing Maintenance and Care
Unlike major implant centers that complete treatment and move on, we offer long-term care and maintenance to ensure the health and longevity of your new teeth. Regular check-ups and professional cleanings will help prolong the lifespan of your prosthesis. Any necessary adjustments or repairs can be made quickly and conveniently in our office.
A dental implant replaces missing teeth by providing an artificial root and tooth. This type of restoration is a permanent solution that gives you back the appearance and function of your mouth. Implants match your real teeth and fuse right into your jaw bone. Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or an entire section of teeth.
Appearance
Dental implants vastly improve the way your smile looks. There are no more visible holes, and the restoration blends right into your smile. Your face and jaw will also have less risk of appearing sunken, as can occur when teeth are missing.
Speech
Missing teeth can cause you to slur or mumble when you speak. Dentures that don’t fit properly can also result in speech issues, so permanent and secure dental implants alleviate speech concerns.
Comfort
Once your implants become part of your jaw, you will likely not even remember you have them. They are very comfortable, and you can also maintain your normal diet. Implants allow you to avoid the problems that dentures have of slipping and discomfort.
Function
Implants act just like your regular teeth. Chewing and biting are the same as with your natural teeth, and in fact your implants will likely be even stronger than your other teeth.
Durability
With proper dental care, implants can last your whole life. Your natural teeth remain unaffected by the implants, and you can continue with your regular oral hygiene routine.
Confidence
Your self-esteem will be restored when you have your complete smile back. You will feel confident in smiling, talking, eating, laughing, and everything else you do.
Restore Your Smile With Confidence at Spring St. Dental
A full-arch fixed prosthesis can be life-changing, giving you a stable, natural-looking smile that enhances both function and confidence. At Spring St. Dental, we specialize in implant-supported restorations, using advanced techniques and high-quality materials to provide long-lasting results. Our patient-centered approach ensures a comfortable experience, from the initial consultation to the final placement of your new smile. If you’re ready to explore a permanent solution for tooth loss, our team is here to help. We’ll guide you through every step, ensuring the best treatment plan for your needs and budget. Schedule a consultation today by calling (512) 321-1600 or reach out through our contact form to take the first step toward a confident, fully restored smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full-arch fixed prosthesis and how is it different from dentures?
A full-arch fixed prosthesis is a permanent, implant-supported solution that replaces an entire row of missing teeth. Unlike traditional removable dentures that rest on your gums and may slip or require adhesives, a full-arch fixed prosthesis is securely anchored to four to six dental implants surgically placed in your jawbone. This provides exceptional stability, comfort, and durability. The key differences include: the prosthesis is permanently fixed in place and cannot be removed, it offers significantly better chewing ability allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods, it looks and feels more like natural teeth, it helps preserve jawbone health by preventing bone loss, and it requires no messy adhesives or nightly removal. At Spring St. Dental in Bastrop, we offer both traditional zirconia full-arch restorations and in-house printed options, providing long-term solutions that restore function, aesthetics, and confidence.
How much does a full-arch fixed prosthesis cost at Spring St. Dental?
Spring St. Dental offers full-arch fixed prosthesis treatment at significantly lower costs than major implant centers like ClearChoice, which typically charge $30,000 per arch. Our pricing includes two options: a standard full-arch fixed prosthesis with zirconia restoration at $23,500 per arch, or an in-house printed final restoration at $17,500 per arch. Both options provide exceptional durability and aesthetics using the same high-quality surgical techniques and implant placement. By producing restorations in-house using advanced technology and working with our in-house oral surgeon, we’ve streamlined our workflow to offer nearly half the cost of big-name competitors without compromising quality. Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for implant-supported prostheses at 50% or more. As an out-of-network provider, we accept all major dental insurance and maximize your benefits by filing claims on your behalf and providing detailed cost estimates before treatment begins. We also offer flexible financing through CareCredit and Alpheon.
How long does the full-arch fixed prosthesis process take?
The complete full-arch fixed prosthesis process at Spring St. Dental typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. The timeline includes several key phases: First, you’ll have a comprehensive consultation where we assess your oral health and create a customized treatment plan using digital scans and imaging. Next, our in-house oral surgeon places four to six implants per arch in a state-of-the-art surgical suite under sedation or anesthesia. Immediately after surgery, we place a custom temporary prosthesis so you’ll never be without teeth. The healing and osseointegration phase takes 3-6 months, during which your implants fuse with your jawbone to create a strong foundation. Throughout this period, you’ll have regular follow-up visits to monitor healing. Finally, we fabricate and place your permanent prosthesis—either traditional zirconia or in-house printed. The entire process is carefully designed to ensure comfort, precision, and long-term success.
What is the recovery like after full-arch implant surgery?
Recovery from full-arch implant surgery is typically manageable with proper care and following post-operative instructions. Immediately after surgery, you’ll leave our Bastrop office with a temporary prosthesis, allowing you to have a complete smile right away. Most patients experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication and ice packs. You’ll need to follow a soft food diet during the initial healing period and gradually progress to more solid foods as healing allows. Most patients return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. During the 3-6 month osseointegration period, you must maintain good oral hygiene, follow dietary restrictions to protect the temporary prosthesis, attend regular follow-up visits to monitor healing, and avoid smoking to promote successful implant integration. Unlike major implant centers that complete treatment and move on, Spring St. Dental provides ongoing maintenance and care to ensure the long-term health and longevity of your restoration.