What procedures are like All-on-4?
There are many tooth-replacement options out there, and the multitude of choices can be dizzying. The most common smile replacement method patients often reach for initially is dentures. These removable oral appliances use a temporary adhesive to stick to the gums, relying on mouth muscles and gum tissue for support.
All-on-4 is an excellent alternative to dentures for patients who are missing multiple or all teeth. Dentures, although the less expensive option, will cost you in oral health problems down the line. Since dentures rely solely on mouth muscles and gum tissue for support, the jawbone is not being used. Over time, the jawbone density will start to deteriorate, causing more tooth loss and heightened susceptibility to oral health issues like gum disease. Decreased oral health can lead to a domino effect of negative effects in the body, like heart disease and digestive problems.
When comparing dentures with All-on-4 implants, the difference in quality might shock you. All-on-4 implantation is a completely unique method of tooth replacement in that it bypasses the one-implant-one-tooth traditional implantation rule. Instead of having to get an implant per each tooth lost, the All-on-4 system needs only four implants for each upper or lower full arch attachment.
Denture wearers also report multiple areas of discomfort, including poor stability, pain and difficulties while eating and talking. Complete dentures wearers can experience loss of tooth function, decreased control of the tongue, salivary imbalances, reduced bite force and diminished oral senses.
With All-on-4 implants, there are both permanent and removable options. These four posts provide enough support for a removable prosthesis or a permanent bridge (to work with any remaining healthy teeth) as well as a full arch. Removable teeth from this system are still far superior to adhesive dentures, as they support bone growth.
How does All-on-4 work?
Other full-arch treatments will require six or more implants in an appointment that will take longer and be more invasive. But All-on-4 is minimally invasive, and the four implants are angled for better attachment and bone support.
The implantation can be done in one two-hour appointment, and the teeth can be used on the same day. The cosmetic dentist will first clean and prepare the mouth. All adverse conditions like extractions and oral infection will need to be done before implantation. Next, the four implants will be surgically inserted in strategically placed locations in either the upper or lower jaw.
The full arch will be placed for immediate use, and a custom-made arch will be created in the dentistry laboratory and be placed weeks after the first appointment.