Dr. Leighton at DENTL in East Melbourne recently saw Barbara for her one-month review following her full arch implant treatment. During the healing phase after implant surgery, patients are advised to follow a soft diet to allow the implants to integrate undisturbed. Barbara’s review appointment was the milestone that marked the end of that period.
What Barbara’s One-Month Review Involved
CT Scan to Confirm Integration
Dr. Leighton took a CT scan to assess the implants and the bone and gum tissue surrounding them. The scan confirmed that all four implants were healthy and had integrated successfully, giving the team and Barbara a clear, evidence-based picture of how her treatment had progressed.
Removing and Cleaning the Bridge
The bridge was temporarily unscrewed during the appointment, allowing Dr. Leighton to clean it thoroughly and inspect the implants directly. This level of access is one of the advantages of a screw-retained bridge design, as it allows for comprehensive maintenance that would not be possible with a fixed cemented restoration.
Reinserting the Bridge and Lifting Dietary Restrictions
Once the inspection and clean were complete, the bridge was reinserted and tightened. With integration confirmed, Barbara was cleared to return to a normal diet and resume comfortable chewing function, the primary clinical goal of her All-Teeth-On-Four treatment.
Titanium Acrylic Bridge vs Zirconia Ceramic Bridge
The bridge Barbara received shortly after her surgery is a titanium-reinforced acrylic bridge. This type of restoration is used during the initial phase of implant treatment, typically for at least three months while integration takes place. Depending on the amount of wear placed on it over time, a titanium acrylic bridge can function well for many years.
Some patients eventually transition to a titanium zirconia ceramic bridge, which is a higher-strength restorative option. Whether an upgrade is appropriate is assessed on a case-by-case basis at DENTL, taking into account each patient’s bite, habits, and clinical circumstances. Dr. Leighton and the team use only high-quality materials across all stages of implant treatment.
Ongoing Care After Full Mouth Implant Treatment
Regular review appointments are an essential part of long-term implant care. At DENTL, patients with implant restorations attend scheduled examination and hygiene visits so the team can monitor the health of the implants, gum tissue, and bridge over time. Early identification of any changes supports the long-term success of the restoration.
Book a Consultation With Dr. Leighton at DENTL
If you have missing teeth and want to explore fixed implant treatment options, or if you have questions about implant aftercare, call Dr. Leighton and the DENTL team on (03) 8820 1699 or complete the booking form below to arrange an appointment in East Melbourne.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Individual results and patient outcomes may vary.
