If you're thinking about getting dental implants, you've probably heard the word “arch” thrown around a few times. Maybe you’ve heard your provider say, “You’ll need a full upper arch,” or you’ve read about “full arch restorations.” But what does that actually mean?
In this article, I’ll explain how I break it down for my patients—and walk you through what an arch is, why it matters, and how a full arch restoration could just change your life.
What Are Dental Arches?
Your mouth has two arches: an upper arch (your top teeth) and a lower arch (your bottom teeth). When we talk about restoring an arch with dental implants, we’re referring to replacing all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
If you’re missing many or all of your teeth in one of those areas—or they’re failing and can’t be saved—you may be a candidate for full arch dental implants.
What Are Full Arch Dental Implants?
Full arch dental implants replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw using just a few dental implants. Instead of placing an implant for every single tooth (which would be time-consuming, expensive, and unnecessary), your provider can strategically place 4 to 6 implants into your jawbone. These act as anchors for a full set of new teeth.
This method is often called: All-on-4®, All-on-6®, or All-on-X® (where “X” represents the number of implants used)
The number of implants you need to secure each arch is dependent on your bone levels since dental implants need enough bone to be securely held in place.
The implants themselves are made from medical grade titanium while the teeth attached to them are made from a very durable zirconia material.
At Nuvia, patients receive their permanent zirconia teeth just 24 hours after surgery. That’s a big deal, especially when traditional methods may take up to 10+ months and involve wearing temporary dentures in the meantime.
Why Don’t You Replace Every Tooth with a Dental Implant?
You don’t need an implant for each missing tooth because the dental implants act like support posts. Think of it like building a bridge—you don’t need a pillar under every inch, just strong supports at the right spots. That’s what All-on-4® or All-on-6® does: four to six implants provide a solid base for a full row of teeth.
This approach:
- Reduces cost
- Leaves less area needing healing
- Simplifies the process
- Delivers long-term strength and durability
Top Questions About Dental Arches
How Many Teeth Are in an Arch?
An adult dental arch typically includes 14–16 teeth, depending on whether wisdom teeth are present. A full arch restoration will usually replace 12 teeth, from first molar to first molar. This number offers a full, functional smile while avoiding the unnecessary inclusion of third molars (wisdom teeth).
How Much Does a Single Dental Implant Arch Cost?
The cost of full arch dental implants can vary depending on the provider, materials, and location. Your specific needs also play a big part in determining the cost. For example, it will likely cost more for a patient with bone loss to get zygomatic dental implants than someone who just has the All-on-4® procedure done.
Dental implants are often more affordable than some people may think. At Nuvia, financing options are available, and many patients find the monthly payments still fit their budget.
For more information and answers to common questions about financing options, insurance, and how to qualify financially, visit the Free Dental Implant Cost Guide.
When Should You Replace a Full Arch with Dental Implants?
Here are signs it may be time to consider full arch dental implants:
- Most or all of your teeth are failing, loose, or painful
- You’ve had multiple root canals, crowns, or bridges that continue to fail
- You wear dentures that don’t fit well or cause discomfort
- You're unable to eat the foods you love
- You feel self-conscious about your smile
If any of those sound familiar, you're not alone—and you’re not stuck. You can take the 60-second quiz to see if you may be a candidate for new, permanent teeth in 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need just your top arch, bottom arch, or both, full arch dental implants offer a one and done, long-term solution for those ready to leave dental problems behind.
If you're curious about whether full arch dental implants are right for you, start by taking the 60-second quiz below. It’s a simple first step—and it might just change your life.
.jpg)
