What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants are a type of implant-supported denture that use four implants each to support a full-arch tooth replacement. Dentists place the implants in strategic locations in the mouth and jawbone and attach custom-made dentures to them. The denture design looks and functions like natural teeth, allowing patients to easily eat, speak, and smile.
The All-on-4 implant system takes advantage of the patient’s existing bone structure, with the placement of the implants allowing for optimal support for the prosthetic teeth. Dentists often recommend this for patients who have limited jawbone density, as it allows them to receive implant-supported teeth with no additional bone grafting procedures.
Benefits of All-On-4
Benefits of the All-on-4 implant system include:
- Can support a full arch of replacement teeth with just four implants, which is less invasive than traditional implant placement.
- They can replace an entire arch of teeth in just one day, allowing individuals to leave the dental office with a new smile the same day.
- They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile proudly.
- They also help preserve the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining a more youthful appearance.
Cons of All-On-4
All-on-4 can be an excellent option for tooth replacement. However, there are some cons to keep in mind:
- All-on-4 dental implants are more expensive than traditional implants, and the cost can vary depending on the individual case.
- They require a longer healing time compared to traditional dental implants.
- There’s a higher risk of implant failure, as all four implants are required to support the full arch of replacement teeth.
Here’s a brief step-by-step breakdown of how the All-on-4 dental implant procedure works:
- Consultation and Planning: The first step is a consultation with your dentist, who will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and overall oral health. This involves X-rays or 3D images, and possibly a physical impression of your mouth. This helps in planning the precise locations where the implants will be placed.
- Tooth Extraction: If you have any remaining teeth in the arch where the All-on-4 implant is to be placed, they’ll be removed.
- Implant Placement: Once your mouth is prepared, the actual implant procedure begins. The dental professional will place two implants at the front of your mouth and two at the back. The implants at the back are usually tilted to take maximum advantage of the available bone and to avoid the need for bone grafting. These implants act as a sturdy base for the prosthetic teeth.
- Attaching the Temporary Teeth: After the implants are placed, you won’t get your permanent set of teeth just yet. Instead, they’ll attach a set of temporary teeth to the implants. This allows you to have a full set of teeth while your jawbone heals and integrates with dental implants, a process known as osseointegration.
- Healing: Over the next few months, your jawbone will grow around the implants in a process called osseointegration. This can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
- Permanent Teeth Placement: Once the implants have fully integrated with your jawbone, you’ll go back to your dentist to get your permanent set of teeth. These teeth are custom-made to fit your mouth and match your natural teeth. Once they’re attached to the implants, the procedure is complete.
Who Needs All-On-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants may be an excellent option for those who have lost most or all of their teeth. They’re also an option for people who have a limited amount of jawbone and aren’t candidates for traditional dental implants. Patients who aren’t comfortable with removable traditional dentures may benefit from All-on-4 implants.
All-on-4 Dental Implant Costs
The cost of the All-on-4 dental implant treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the dental practice, the experience of the dentist, the number of implants required, treatment time, and the materials used.
On average, the cost of an All-on-4 dental implant procedure can range from $20,000 to $50,000 per arch.
However, this cost can be lower than traditional implant placement, as fewer implants are required.
Discuss the cost of the procedure with your dentist during the initial consultation. They can provide you with an estimate and discuss any financing options that may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
All-on-4 dental implants can last a lifetime when cared for properly. Patients should maintain a good oral hygiene routine, attend regular dental checkups and cleanings, and avoid habits that can damage the implants, such as smoking or biting hard objects.
The All-on-4 dental implant procedure is a surgery typically performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, so patients shouldn’t feel any pain. Some may experience mild discomfort and swelling for a few days after implant surgery, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses.
Yes. Since All-on-4 dental implants are designed to look and function like natural teeth, patients can eat and speak normally. However, it may take some time for patients to adjust to life with their new teeth, and speech therapy may be recommended in certain cases.
The All-on-4 procedure is often considered worth it for those who want a permanent solution to replace their missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip and cause discomfort, All-on-4 implants are securely anchored in the bone and don’t require adhesives. They also offer greater stability and can improve your ability to speak and eat.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today
If you’re interested in All-on-4 dental implants, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified doctor or dental professional. During this consultation, your dentist or implant specialist will evaluate your dental health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if the All-on-4 dental implant system is the right solution for you.
Are you looking for implants in Wasilla? Contact our dentist today to schedule your consultation.