Replacing a full arch of teeth with traditional dentures might seem like the straightforward solution. And in many ways, it is. But let’s pause for a moment. If there were a way to create stronger, more reliable support, wouldn’t you want that? Look around you. The space you’re in right now, whether it’s your home, an office, or a coffee shop, is standing tall because of support beams, hidden joists, and foundations you probably haven’t thought about today. You don’t see them, but they’re doing the heavy lifting. They keep things steady, aligned, and livable. So here’s the question. If we place that much engineering behind the spaces we inhabit, why not take the same approach with your smile? A full arch supported by mini dental implants offers that kind of dependable reinforcement. While it may not be visible, it makes everything feel more secure.
What are Full Arch Dental Implants?
Each dental arch is shaped like a broad arc, holding a full row of teeth. When we refer to full arch dental implants, we mean replacing an entire upper or lower arch, or both, with a secure, permanent set of teeth supported by mini dental implants.
We place mini dental implants at strategic points along the jaw. These small titanium posts form the foundation for your new teeth. Once in place, the surrounding bone naturally fuses to each implant through a process called osseointegration. The result is a stable and durable anchor capable of handling normal biting and chewing forces much like a natural tooth root.
Because the implants are integrated into the jawbone, they transfer chewing forces directly to the bone. This stimulation helps preserve bone density and prevents the bone loss that often follows tooth loss. Traditional dentures cannot provide this benefit.
Full Arch Dental Implants With Fix-on-Six®
The Fix-on-Six® system, developed by Dr. Todd Shatkin, offers one of the most effective methods for replacing a full arch of teeth. In this method, we place 6 to 10 mini dental implants in the jaw. These implants serve as secure anchors for a roundhouse bridge, which is a full set of replacement teeth designed to match the natural curve of your jaw.
A roundhouse bridge has a smooth horseshoe shape that fits comfortably along your dental arch. Because it closely follows your natural jawline, it avoids the bulky feel that some other restorations can have. Most roundhouse bridges are made from zirconia, a strong and durable material that is even tougher than natural enamel. This strength allows the bridge to resist wear while maintaining a lifelike appearance. The result is a restoration that feels comfortable, functions reliably, and blends naturally with your smile.
How We Replace a Full Arch With Mini Dental Implants
Assessment and Planning
Your treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation. We begin by discussing your goals and what you hope to achieve from your tooth replacement treatment. This conversation helps us understand your expectations and design a plan that meets your needs.
Next, we perform a detailed examination and take a CBCT scan. This advanced type of dental X-ray provides a clear 3D view of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. It shows us exactly where important features, such as nerves and sinuses, are located, allowing us to plan your treatment effectively.
Preparatory Work
Before we can proceed with placing your implants, we focus on establishing a healthy foundation for your new smile. Many patients who come to us for full mouth restoration have dealt with challenges such as gum disease, tooth decay, or past dental infections. Addressing these issues first is an important step in ensuring your implants will be stable and long-lasting.
In some cases, we may also need to remove teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or cannot be saved. Extracting these teeth creates space for your implants and helps prevent future complications. By taking care of these preparatory steps, we set the stage for a smooth implant placement and a healthy, confident smile.
Mini Dental Implant Placement
Patients are often surprised by how straightforward this stage is, thanks to Dr. Shatkin’s patented placement technique. We begin by carefully numbing the area where your implant will be placed, typically with a local anesthetic. For those who need additional comfort, we also offer a range of sedation options.
Once you are fully comfortable, we create a small pilot hole through the gums and into the jawbone before placing the mini dental implant with precision. The procedure itself is efficient and can usually be completed in a relatively short period of time.
Because Dr. Shatkin’s method is minimally invasive, the process results in less tissue disruption compared to traditional implant techniques. Patients benefit from reduced discomfort, quicker healing, and a faster return to normal function.
Restore Your Smile With Full Arch Dental Implants in Buffalo, NY
Your smile deserves the same strength and stability you would expect from any lasting structure. With full arch dental implants supported by Dr. Shatkin’s innovative techniques, you can enjoy a restoration that looks natural, feels secure, and functions reliably day after day. Schedule a free consultation with our team to explore how this proven approach can give you the comfort, confidence, and lasting performance you want in your smile.
Join our online community! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to explore how full arch dental implants change lives every day.
