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In contemporary dentistry, few procedures have the power to transform lives and practices quite like fixed hybrid dentures. Often referred to as “All-on-X”, these full-arch restorations provide a permanent, natural-looking smile and offer significant value for both patients and dental practices.
What Are Fixed Hybrid Dentures?
Fixed hybrid dentures are full-arch prosthetics that are permanently anchored to the jaw using dental implants. Unlike removable dentures that rest on the gums, fixed hybrids are securely attached and function much like natural teeth.
According to the U.S. Dental Tribune, the demand for fixed hybrid dentures is on the rise, driven by their superior quality and status as one of the most realistic replacement options available. Unlike traditional removable dentures, fixed hybrids offer a more stable, natural feel. They’re also prone to slipping, breaking, and need frequent repairs. Fixed hybrids provide patients with durable dentures that fit securely, improving chewing ability and overall comfort. As a result, many patients are choosing fixed hybrids for their enhanced functionality and realistic appearance.
Fixed hybrids are typically made from high-quality, durable materials that are built to withstand wear and tear. At Edmonds, we provide the highest quality products on the market, made with milled titanium, zirconia, and High-Impact PMMA or Nano-Filled composites. In addition, we have several options of full arched fixed hybrids, including the Panthera Fusion (PFB), Wrap-Around, and Montreal Bar.
Fixed Removable Hybrids: The Best of Both Worlds
For some patients, a fixed hybrid may not be the ideal solution due to specific anatomical factors. In these cases, double structures that are removable by the patient, offer a strong alternative that provides a balance of both prosthetics. These restorations combine the stability and durability of a fixed implant-supported prosthesis with the convenience and cleansibility of traditional dentures.
Fixed removable hybrids allow patients to remove their prosthetic for cleaning and maintenance, without sacrificing the benefits of implant support. This option provides patients with improved stability and aesthetics while also keeping the enhanced chewing abilities of the permanent hybrids.
For dentists, offering fixed removable hybrids can broaden their ability to cater to a variety of patient needs and preferences, while still providing a high-quality, long-lasting solution. As with all implant-supported restorations, careful case selection and planning are crucial to ensuring success and patient satisfaction.
The Power of Careful Case Selection
Successful fixed hybrid treatments begin with one essential step: selecting the right cases. As Steffen Rohrbach, Edmonds’ Senior Director of Removable Prosthetics, puts it, “Case selection is crucial. This is an advanced treatment that brings fantastic results, but it’s not for every patient. Dentists must evaluate clinical, anatomical, and patient-related factors carefully to avoid complications and ensure predictable, long-term success.”
At Edmonds, we support dentists by providing the highest-quality fixed hybrid restorations, meticulously crafted to meet the specific requirements of each case. While the responsibility of evaluating the patient lies with the clinician, we offer the tools and insight needed to guide the planning process from the start.
Each patient presents a unique set of considerations. That’s why detailed planning is so important. Factors such as bone quality, implant distribution, and patient motivation can significantly influence the outcome. As Steffen explains, “A highly motivated patient who understands the treatment process and is committed to long-term maintenance is an ideal candidate.”
To help ensure predictable and successful results, we encourage dentists to carefully assess a range of factors before proceeding with treatment. These include the patient’s expectations and motivation, oral hygiene habits, and financial considerations. Clinical elements such as bone quantity and quality, vertical and interocclusal space, and the arch form with implant spread are also critical. Additionally, a review of material selection, lip support, phonetics, esthetics, occlusal scheme, and the condition of the opposing dentition all play important roles in determining the overall success of the case.
By thoughtfully evaluating these aspects, dentists can enhance both clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. With proper planning and a reliable lab partner like Edmonds, fixed hybrid dentures can become one of the most rewarding services a practice can offer.
