What is All on 4 Dental Implants?
Modern dentistry has undergone incredible enhancements and improvements over the past few decades. One specific enhancement is the use of dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental professionals can use four strategically placed dental implants to replace the entire arch of teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
Dental Implants
Unfortunately, many adults experience the loss of one or more teeth in their lifetime. Due to issues such as gum disease and natural aging, many patients are at risk for losing their teeth. Millions of patients are actually missing all of their teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Historically, traditional dentures were used to replace missing teeth. Dentures often fit poorly, slip around, require dietary restrictions, and are tedious to clean. Dental implants help resolve these issues while offering patients an incredible stable and secure tooth-replacement solution.
Dental professionals can surgically place just four dental implants to serve as the base for an entire arch of prosthetic teeth. A dental implant is a small screw-like device and is often made from titanium. The implant is surgically placed in the patient’s jawbone. It serves as the root for the missing tooth and effectively stimulates the jawbone, preventing bone loss. A local anesthetic is used during the procedure to ensure patients remain comfortable. Following the placement of the implant, the dentist or oral surgeon will connect the prosthetic crown. The final product is a strong, functional, and aesthetic restoration.
All on 4 Procedure
Unfortunately, individual dental implants are incredibly expensive and can be cost-prohibitive for some patients. The All on 4 procedure is unique in that the dental professional can use just four implants to replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. If individual implants were used to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth, it would be incredibly costly, time consuming, and tedious. The four dental implants are strategically placed at an angle to adequately support an entire arch of prosthetic teeth. During the healing process, the implants actually fuse to the jawbone. The result is a strong and secure restoration which has the appearance and function similar to the natural teeth.
Another benefit of dental implants is that they stimulate the jawbone with chewing and prevent bone loss. The jawbone is vital for maintaining good oral health, the facial structure, and preventing long-term issues.
One Day All on 4 Implants
In some cases, the dental office can complete the All on 4 procedure in a single visit. This requires the use of modern dental technology, equipment, and advanced implant teams. The steps for completing the procedure in a single day and benefits are summarized below:
- Implant team which may include dental professionals, lab technicians, and specialized equipment in one location
- Dental implants and dentures are placed on the same day
- Eliminates the need for temporary dentures and multiple visits for the treatment
Recovery
In order for the dental implants to heal and fuse to the jawbone, it typically takes a few months. Once the mouth is completely healed, patients will return to the office where the temporary denture is replaced with the permanent denture restoration. This additional step is not required for same-day restorations. The result is a beautiful and functional smile.
Call to schedule an appointment with the team to determine if you may be a good candidate for All on 4 dental implants. This is an incredible tooth-replacement solution which restores a patient’s confidence in their smile.
