All-on-4: A Comprehensive Guide to Total Tooth Replacement

If you are missing several teeth, you are likely looking for a solution that can give you back your confidence, smile, and overall function. For individual teeth, a traditional dental implant solution is a great option, but in the case of replacing several teeth at once, there is a better solution. In the past, patients who were missing multiple teeth only had the option of traditional dentures.

While dentures are a tried-and-true solution, they come with drawbacks. Traditional dentures can be uncomfortable, feel loose, and require refitting over time. The All-on-4 system is a permanent solution that can replace multiple missing teeth with only four to six implants.

What are All-on-4 Implants?

All-on-4 therapy is sometimes referred to as an “implant-supported bridge” or “fixed bridge” and can permanently replace multiple teeth through a less invasive procedure when compared to traditional dental implants. They are a long-term solution that typically does not require frequent fitting or adjustment sessions after the procedure and recovery period are done. With All-on-4 treatment, four to six fixed implants are embedded in a patient’s jaw to provide a stable foundation supporting replacement teeth’ arch. The technology and connection methods used in the All-on-4 dental implants are more stable and reliable.

The implants are placed strategically into the jaw of the patient after a thorough analysis to determine the most effective places for the best results. In most cases, this involves two or three implants being placed in the front of the mouth, and two or three placed towards the molar area. Once the implants have been placed, a set of temporary teeth can be fixed immediately.

What Makes All-On-4 Different from Traditional Implants or Dentures?

In the past, the solution to missing teeth was traditional implants or dentures. Both of these solutions are effective, but have drawbacks. Traditional implants are a permanent solution, but rely on an implant for each individual tooth. Dentures are designed to replace multiple teeth, but rely on natural suction or denture adhesive to keep them in place, rather than being a permanent fixture. All-on-4 implants are a permanent replacement for multiple missing teeth.

What are the Benefits of Choosing All-On-4?

There are numerous benefits to choosing All-on-4 for your oral health. Some of the advantages include:

• Bone Loss Prevention

The All-on-4 system will minimize the effect of bone loss, as implants are affixed directly to the jawbone, acting as roots.

• Easy Care and Better Hygiene

Denture adhesive can be messy and difficult to care for. Caring for your teeth after all-on-4 implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are the only necessary habits you will need to maintain.

• Permanent Solution

Traditional dentures require frequent fitting sessions, typically due to gum recession that causes dentures to loosen over time. The All-on-4 system is a permanent solution that typically lasts decades with proper dental hygiene.

• Increased Confidence

Patients with traditional dentures often worry about loose dentures that could cause embarrassment. With an All-on-4 dental treatment, your teeth will look natural and be connected securely to your mouth, allowing you to eat and drink normally with few restrictions.

All-on 4 Dental Implants FAQ

All-on-4 dental implants are an excellent option for those missing multiple teeth and looking for a permanent solution without the drawbacks of dentures. However, many patients have questions and concerns about the procedure before committing to it. It’s important you make an informed decision about whether All-on-4 is the right option for you and your lifestyle.

How Long Will the Procedure Take?

The procedure itself is between two and four hours per arch.

Is the Procedure Painful?

Patients who get All-on-4 implants are sedated during the procedure, so most patients report a pain-free experience.

How Long is the Recovery?

The healing process is much faster than traditional implants, as the All-on-4 implants begin immediately fusing to the bone. Some patients are able to eat solid or semi-solid food on the same day as their procedure. You may experience some swelling and bleeding immediately after the procedure and will be given pain medication, anti-inflammatory medication, and antibiotics for 5-10 days after the procedure. The total recovery time for most patients is several days, with a return to work within 3-4 days.

Will Anyone Be Able to Tell These Aren’t My Natural Teeth?

All-on-4 implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and no one will be able to tell that they are implants simply by looking at your smile.

Are All-on-4 Implants Affordable? Will My Insurance Cover the Procedure?

The cost will vary depending on your unique situation and needs. Some of the costs involved are the number of x-rays and CT scans necessary prior to the procedure, whether tooth extraction or bone grafts are needed, the sedation used during the procedure, the materials used to create the artificial teeth (acrylic, composite, or porcelain), and the cost of the surgeon. In most cases, the cost ranges between $20,000 and $35,000. If the All-on-4 implant is considered a cosmetic or elective procedure, it will often not be covered by insurance. However, certain parts of the procedure can be covered by insurance, such as anesthesia, imaging, and extractions.

Missing teeth is not just inconvenient for eating. Patients with missing teeth often suffer from a lack of confidence, poor self-esteem, and additional issues with their oral health. While dentures are always an option, the All-on-4 treatment offers a long-term, durable, and natural looking solution to missing teeth. The results are far better than other options and can improve your overall health and regain your confidence. To learn more about this life-changing opportunity to fix your smile permanently, contact Bellevue Dental Care and Implant Center today.