The All-on-4 dental implant system is a treatment designed to replace a full arch (arch) of missing teeth using just four strategically placed dental implants. This approach is ideal for patients looking for a cost-effective, efficient and durable alternative to traditional dentures or multiple individual implants. By combining functionality, durability and aesthetics, it helps restore oral function and confidence.
What is an All-on-4 implant?
All-on-4 implants provide full arch restoration by anchoring a custom prosthesis to four implants placed in the jawbone. The two posterior implants are angled to maximize bone contact and provide stability, even for patients with reduced bone density. This technique eliminates the need for bone grafting in many cases.
What are the advantages of All-on-4 implants?
Lower Cost: Fewer implants mean lower costs compared to full-mouth implant restorations.
Shorter Treatment Time: Most procedures are completed in a single day, allowing patients to leave the clinic with a temporary denture and immediate functionality.
Stability: The angled placement of posterior implants optimizes support, even in areas with lower bone density.
Natural Appearance: The denture arch mimics the look and feel of natural teeth, increasing confidence and functionality.
Durability and Longevity: With proper care, All-on-4 implants can last for decades.
Maintaining Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss associated with missing teeth.
Who are suitable candidates for All-on-4 implants?
All-on-4 implants are suitable for:
- Patients who are missing most or all of their teeth in one arch
- People who cannot or do not choose to have extensive bone grafting
- People who are in good general health and do not have uncontrolled medical conditions such as advanced diabetes or severe gum disease
A comprehensive evaluation, including imaging and examination, is required to determine a person’s suitability for this procedure.
How are All-on-4 implants applied?
Consultation and Planning: Your dentist will use a physical exam and imaging to assess your oral health to map out implant placement.
Procedure: 4 implants are strategically placed in the jawbone, with two implants angled in the back for additional support. A temporary prosthesis is attached immediately or shortly after surgery.
Healing Time:Osseointegration occurs over 3-6 months, where the implants fuse with the bone to form a stable foundation.
Final Prosthesis Attachment: Once healing is complete, a permanent prosthesis, made of durable and aesthetic materials, is attached to the arch.
What should be taken into consideration in oral care after All on 4?
Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are essential after the procedure.
Routine Checkups: Regular dental visits ensure that implants and dentures remain in top shape.
Lifestyle Adjustments: You should avoid hard foods and habits such as smoking that can compromise implant health.
Frequently Asked Questions About All on 4
Are there any complications with All-on-4?
Some patients, especially those with low bone density, require a longer recovery period. Rare problems such as infection or implant failure can occur, which really highlights the need for a skilled and experienced dentist.
How are All-on-4 dental implants different from standard implants?
In a standard dental implant procedure, each implant supports a single replacement tooth, and if you need to support a full arch of teeth, you may need 6-10 implants to maintain stability. On the other hand, the All-on-4 technique uses only four implants per jaw to support a full arch of teeth. This reduced number of implants can be beneficial for patients with limited bone density or volume.
The All-on-4 dental implant technique is achieved by placing the anterior or posterior implants at an angle to maximize contact with the existing bone, providing greater stability. This angulation also helps overcome limitations in bone quality and quantity, eliminating the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting that are sometimes required with traditional implants. Implants placed in the anterior jaw are placed in the anterior jaw, where bone density is generally higher, using the standard vertical implant technique.
Who is not eligible for this procedure?
While All-on-4 dental implants may be appropriate for people in their 20s to 80s, your dentist may not recommend the procedure if you have certain conditions. For example,
- if you are undergoing radiation therapy or high-dose bisphosphonate therapy, which can impair the ability of the bone to heal (this can increase the risk of implant failure).
- if you have any systemic conditions that can impair bone healing or affect your immune response, your doctor may decide not to perform the surgery.
Ultimately, it is important to consult with a dentist who is experienced in implants and can assess your oral health and determine the best treatment options for you.