The ultimate in full upper reconstruction, implants offer a real and long term solution to complete upper tooth loss. The prospect of losing teeth is daunting enough, but the prospect of a life time of full upper denture wear can be a formidable physical commitment.

Full upper dentures have considerable palatal coverage, and the effects can diminish taste and temperature sensitivity, with a reduction in the overall enjoyment of food.

Many people cannot tolerate upper dentures simply because their bulk can cause gagging, because they become loose with chewing, or because of the chronic mucosal infections they can cause such as candidiasis. As maxillary bone is lost, the dentures become less retentive, and eventually repeat relines become impossible leading to embarrassing social situations when they fall out.

Strategically placed implants are a long term solution to complete tooth loss, and can help retain full upper fixed prostheses, with dramatic improvements in chewing ability and oral comfort.

The techniques of surgery are often challenging, as maxillary bone is often thinned, and sinus structures can significantly thin posterior alveolar bone compromising the potential for implant placement.

Combined specialist management by an oral & maxillofacial surgeon, an experienced implant restorative dentist, and by a specially trained prosthetic technician can work for many patients in establishing stable, and functional chewing platforms. Combined therapy aims to maximally enhance smile aesthetics and chewing function, whilst permanently securing your prosthesis in a healthy way... With a minimum of long term complications.

Click on the following cases to find out more on how implants can help permanently retain a full upper complement of teeth...

Case 1. This 60 year old gentleman had a deteriorating upper dentition which had reached terminal dental stage. meaning they all had to be removed. He had been attempting to keep them for as long as possible, as he considered the prospect of a full upper denture would severely curtail his fond appreciation of all things culinary. After having a full dental clearance, his surgeon placed four implants to the maxilla, with combined bone grafting to increase the height of his posterior alveolar bone... Read more

Case 2. This 52 year old male had severe generalised periodontal disease, with specialist periodontal care unable to stop the deterioration of his gums or improve the increasing loosening of his teeth. He sought definitive remedial action through full dental clearance, but was circumspect on the prospect of full dentures. In particular he felt he would not be able to tolerate a full upper denture because of gagging... Read more

Case 3.This 74 year old gentleman presented with palatal swelling and two abcessed teeth. His other teeth were all unable to be saved due to lack of bone... Read More