Is a Bone Graft Required for All-on-4®?

All-on-4 dental implants are an innovative method of full smile replacement. The All-on-4 system consists of four implants inserted into the upper or lower jaw (or both), with a full arch of permanent teeth attached. Best for adults who have lost all their teeth but still have plenty of jawbone volume, the All-on-4 system acts as a solid foundation for the permanent arch of teeth.

However, when a patient does not have sufficient bone density to support implants, there are still solutions for building jawbone volume to prepare for implants to be placed.

What is bone grafting?

Teeth are important in keeping the jawbone strong and stable. When you start to lose teeth, the jawbone is no longer being used. If the jaw is no longer stimulated after complete tooth loss, it begins to degenerate. Advanced gum disease such as periodontitis can also cause bone loss. This is why it is crucial to choose a tooth-replacement strategy that not only puts the jaw back to work but saves it from deterioration.

Bone grafting is a procedure which involves the surgeon taking a small section of bone from another area of the body or using a special bone grafting material and applying it to areas of the jaw that need a boost. The graft takes a few months to heal and grow new bone to become a permanent part of the mouth. Some patients who will need a minor graft can have it done at the same time as the implant procedure.

Successful bone grafts will result in a stronger, fuller jawbone that will be able to support multiple implants for the All-on-4 procedure.

All-on-4 acts like natural teeth, garnering strength and stability from the jaw whereas other smile replacement methods like dentures only use the gum tissue for support. Dentures cause more deterioration, while All-on-4 maintains the jawbone.

The All-on-4 procedure

In the first two appointments before the implants are placed, the dentist will perform an oral examination and decide on a treatment plan. This can involve taking X-rays, impressions and photos of the oral cavity. After the consultation and bone grafting have been done, you are ready for implants.

The dental surgeon will first administer sedation to the patient. Then, four titanium implants will be inserted into each jaw. If the patient has less bone density even after a bone grafting, the implants are tilted at a 45-degree angle to reduce pressure on the jaw and allow the same level of stability.

The bottom line

All-on-4 in combination with bone grafting can give you a full set of permanent teeth that you can use like your natural teeth. This new fixed bridge is virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. You can eat, smile, speak and live freely with All-on-4, even if your jawbone is not at its best. Discuss bone grafting options with your dentist to get you on your way to that beautiful new smile you have been craving.

Request an appointment here: https://smilesonmichigan.com or call Smiles On Michigan at (312) 509-9492 for an appointment in our Chicago office.

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