All-on-4 implants are revolutionizing the way dentists replace missing teeth. For years, patients have been choosing dental implants as permanent tooth prosthetics. But instead of placing as many as 10 implants into the gums for traditional dental implants, all-on-4 implant therapy makes it possible to secure all of the teeth to just four dental implants. Unlike traditional implants, which are placed vertically, all-on-4 implants are placed at an angle, which increases their strength and allows them to better support multiple prosthetics. The benefits of all-on-4 implants are significant, including a faster single-visit implant placement process that is minimally invasive and usually prevents the need for bone grafting.
Did you know…
that all-on-4 dental implants are placed while you are fully sedated? That means that you will have little or no memory of the procedure; and because there are fewer implants, you are also likely to experience an easier recovery period. When you choose all-on-4 implants to replace your missing or damaged teeth, you will gain a permanent, non-removable solution that looks and functions like a real tooth. In many cases, all-on-4 implants can last for several decades, or even a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for all-on-4 implants?
You may be a candidate for all-on-4 dental implants if all or nearly all of your teeth are missing or badly damaged. Implants placed early after tooth loss can help prevent bone atrophy and also reduces the need for bone grafting. To find out more about all-on-4 dental implants, schedule a consultation with your dentist.
What should I expect if I get all-on-4 dental implants?
Your damaged teeth will be extracted to make room for your new implants. When the time comes to place your implants, you will be asked to avoid eating and drinking the night before and day of your procedure, as you will be fully sedated for its duration. A minimum of four implants will be strategically placed into the supporting bone beneath your gums. The gums will be sutured closed to allow the implants time to fuse with bone and heal. Several months later, you will return to have your tooth prosthetics secured to the implants where they will remain permanently.
Will I need to follow any special care instructions after I get all-on-4 implants?
Dental implants have a very high success rate, but there are some special care instructions you will need to follow after having them placed. It is normal to experience some pain and swelling after your procedure, though you may treat discomfort with over the counter medications or pain medications prescribed by your dentist. You may also need to rinse the treated area with a special solution several times each day and avoid using a straw. You may also be provided with an antibiotic and a list of temporary diet restrictions that will help you prevent infection.
Are dental implants safe?
A dental implant procedure is not only safe, but it is perhaps one of the safest surgical procedures performed in modern dentistry. The titanium in an implant is completely biocompatible and easily ‘accepted’ by the body as a tooth replacement.
How long have dental implants been a tooth replacement option?
Modern dental implants have been used for many decades, though the practice of tooth root replacement has been used in various ways for hundreds of years. During that time, dentistry has evolved significantly, making it possible for us to mimic the look and function of a natural tooth more closely than ever before.
What is the success rate for dental implants?
Dental implant success rates vary from patient to patient. However, those who properly care for their dental implants typically see a success rate of 95 to 98 percent.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Dental implant procedures are surgical operations performed while a patient is anesthetized. This helps to minimize any discomfort associated with the procedure itself. However, it is normal to experience some pain and swelling following the surgery, which may be alleviated with over-the-counter medication or a pain medication prescribed by your dentist.
Will I be without teeth after the dental implant procedure?
Once you have received your implants, you may be given a temporary set of teeth for use during the recovery period. These may be a denture or partial worn until your gums have healed and the swelling has subsided. It is at this time that you can return to be fitted for your permanent prosthetic, whether a denture, crown or some other tooth replacement option.
Are dental implants as strong as natural teeth?
Dental implants are made of a strong titanium metal designed to last a lifetime. They have the same functionality and durability of a natural tooth. This means that people who have dental implants can enjoy all of the same foods other people can eat after the recovery period is complete.
Is it possible to be too old or too young for dental implants?
Age is not a factor in determining someone’s eligibility for dental implants. Instead, it is a person’s bone structure, oral health, and general health that determine whether dental implants are right for them.
Will my dental implants require any special care?
Once the healing phase is complete, dental implants do not require any special care beyond everyday brushing and flossing, as well as periodic dental check-ups.
