The upper and lower jaws behave differently after tooth loss. For this reason, the most appropriate implant solution in one arch may not be the same in the other.
Below is a simplified comparison.
| Feature | Upper Jaw | Lower Jaw |
| Bone loss pattern | Often shrinks upward and inward | Often becomes narrow and flat |
| Lip and cheek support | Very important for facial appearance | Less critical for the facial profile |
| Natural suction | Yes (against the palate) | No |
| Conventional denture stability | Often reasonable | Often unstable |
| Implant-retained overdenture | Often works very well | Significant improvement over a loose denture |
| Fixed implant bridge | Suitable in selected cases | Frequently ideal for stability |
| Aesthetic considerations | Gum and lip support is critical | Stability and function are often priorities |
| Hygiene access | Important due to tissue design | Important but often easier to manage |
| Typical patient concern | Sunken appearance, long-looking teeth | Movement, poor chewing ability |
Yes — in many cases this is possible. However, suitability depends on:
The most appropriate solution is based on anatomy and long-term predictability.
The upper arch plays a key role in:
If significant tissue has been lost, an overdenture or hybrid design may provide better cosmetic support than a fully fixed tooth-only bridge.
Lower dentures do not benefit from suction and rely mainly on muscle control. This often leads to movement and discomfort. A fixed implant bridge in the lower jaw:
For many patients, this provides the greatest functional improvement.
Full-arch treatment requires careful assessment of both arches together. Decisions are not made independently for each jaw.
Where full-arch implant bridges or overdentures are being considered, Dr Kevin Gilmore oversees restorative planning to ensure aesthetics, function, and stability are balanced appropriately.
Upper and lower jaws behave differently. The best long-term solution depends on anatomy, facial support, and functional needs — not simply matching treatments between arches.
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I required some extensive dental work, which I had been catastrophising in my head for some time now. Having finally plucked up the courage, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been cared for so professionally & competently by Lorna…
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Martina is an excellent hygienist, professional, kind, and thorough. She made me feel completely at ease and did a fantastic job with my cleaning. I highly recommend her!
I would highly recommend this dental practice. They are very professional in every sense. Special shout-out for Cianna & Kevin, two highly skilled dentists.
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