Understanding All-on-Four Dental Implants

A radiant smile can boost confidence and transform appearance. However, missing teeth can significantly impact self-esteem and oral health. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution: All-on-Four dental implants.

Types of dental implants

All-on-Four dental implants, a full-arch implant solution, use two major types of dental implants: endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants.

Endosteal implants, resembling small screws, are made from titanium and are surgically inserted deep into the jawbone, replacing tooth roots.

Subperiosteal implants are used when there's insufficient healthy jawbone for endosteal implants, placed under the gum, on or above the bone, suitable for patients with low jawbone density.

The all-on-four procedure

The All-on-Four dental implant procedure offers a full-arch implant solution for patients with missing most or all teeth. It involves placing four dental implants per arch, providing a stable foundation for a fixed bridge of replacement teeth.

Compared to traditional implant methods, the All-on-Four technique minimizes the need for bone grafting, reducing treatment time. This approach allows faster healing and immediate placement of a temporary restoration, offering functional and aesthetic benefits during recovery.

A permanent solution

All-on-Four dental implants offer long-term durability. With proper care, they last for decades, providing a permanent solution for missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, they offer a stable foundation, enabling confident eating, speaking, and smiling.

Restoring function and aesthetics

All-on-Four dental implants restore tooth functionality and enhance overall appearance. Replacement teeth are custom-designed to match natural teeth, creating a seamless and beautiful smile. Whether tooth loss resulted from injury, decay, or other oral health conditions, All-on-Four implants provide a natural-looking Hollywood smile.

Preservation of jawbone

Tooth loss can lead to jawbone deterioration. All-on-Four dental implants stimulate bone growth, preserving jawbone density. They act as artificial tooth roots, ensuring implant stability and preventing further bone loss, averting facial sagging and premature aging.

Candidates for all-on-four dental implants

All-on-Four dental implants suit individuals with significant tooth loss, tooth decay, gum disease, removable denture discomfort, or those desiring a stable alternative to traditional dentures or bridges. Sufficient jawbone density is vital or bone grafting may be necessary.

Consult a qualified dentist or oral surgeon to determine suitability. They will evaluate oral health, jawbone density, and medical history for the best treatment plan.

Initial assessment and planning

Begin with an initial assessment and planning phase. A comprehensive examination of teeth, gums, and jawbone, including X-rays and CT scans, assesses oral and jawbone condition. Evaluation ensures adequate jawbone support for implants. Gum health is crucial.

Implant placement

Under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, dental professionals surgically insert dental implants. Endosteal implants involve drilling holes deep into the jawbone, while subperiosteal implants are placed on or above the bone. Pain and swelling are expected post-procedure, manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

Healing and osseointegration

Following implant placement, osseointegration occurs, where dental implants fuse with the surrounding jawbone. This crucial step ensures implant stability and overall success.