Full-arch implant denture (fixed)
A typical case, in 8 steps over 4 visits. Typically 3 to 6 months of healing after the implants go in, longer with bone grafting. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Full-arch implant denture (fixed) · Visit 1
Removing teeth and grafting
Any decayed or damaged teeth are removed first. Bone grafting is done where the jawbone has lost density. Some people heal for a few months before the implants go in.
Source: clevelandclinic.org
Steps in a typical case
Removing teeth and grafting
Any decayed or damaged teeth are removed first. Bone grafting is done where the jawbone has lost density. Some people heal for a few months before the implants go in.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Healing denture
A healing denture is worn during this time. It can be used day to day but does not attach to the implants.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Implants placed
Under numbing, the gum is opened and small holes are made in the jawbone for the implants. A full arch usually uses four to six implants. The gum is closed with stitches.
Visit 2 · Source 2
First days after surgery
Most people feel normal within one week and go back to routine activities in two to three days. Hard exercise is avoided for at least 48 hours.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Healing, 3 to 6 months
The implants fuse with the jawbone over about three to six months. It can take longer when bone grafting was also done.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Impressions
Once the implants heal, impressions of the upper and lower arches are taken. A dental lab uses them to make the new denture.
Visit 3 · Source 1
Fixed denture attached
The new custom denture is attached to the implants. A fixed denture cannot be taken out at home. The dentist can remove it for maintenance when needed.
Visit 4 · Source 1
Daily cleaning
A fixed denture is brushed like natural teeth. Floss threaders and small between-teeth brushes clean underneath it.
Visit 4 · Source 1
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically multiple steps: removing teeth if needed, implant surgery, impressions and fitting. Source 1 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically 3 to 6 months of healing after the implants go in, longer with bone grafting. Source 1 |
| How long it lasts | Typically implants can last a lifetime with proper care; the denture on top is typically replaced every 15 to 20 years. Source 1 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: brushing like natural teeth and cleaning underneath with floss threaders and small brushes. Source 1 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes 4 visits. How many would I need, and what happens at each one?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D6114, D6115).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Implant-supported dentures. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24303-implant-supported-dentures. Accessed November 10, 2026.
- Dental implants. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10903-dental-implants. Accessed November 14, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.1. Billing codes for the typical case: D6114, D6115.