Traditional dentures seem like the logical next step when you are missing teeth. While not ideal, dentures provide the necessary aesthetics and function your teeth once did. But with the revolutionary All-on-4 procedure, life without traditional dentures, even those with extensive tooth loss, is possible.

Young female patient smiling and happy about her recent dental procedure.

The Difference Between All-on-4 and Traditional Dentures

Partial or full dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. These prosthetic teeth sit on the gums and provide a fundamental solution to the problem of missing teeth. Dentures are non-invasive and do not require any additional surgical procedures to fix them in place after any necessary tooth extractions.

All-on-4 dental implants are a new approach to permanently replacing multiple missing teeth. Unlike individual implants, fixed in place one tooth at a time, All-on-4 dental implants involve only four to six implants and support a full arch of teeth. These posts anchor teeth that look and feel natural and function more like your real teeth.

The Process of All-on-4 Dental Implants

Your dental team will inform you if you are a good candidate for All-on-4 dental implants. The ideal candidate will have sufficient jawbone structure, healthy gums, and good oral hygiene. Once approved as a candidate, you will go through the surgical phase. This procedure can often be completed in only one visit after the initial assessment and treatment plan have been determined.

In the surgical phase, you will have local anesthesia and sedation, which will prevent pain and anxiety during the procedure. Your dentist will extract any remaining teeth, clean the gums and sockets, and create an incision to allow access to the jawbone. Four implant posts will be placed to support replacement teeth at an angle designed to avoid issues with nerves or sinuses. After the posts are implanted, temporary replacement teeth will be attached to the posts, and the gum will be closed. Your dentist will give you instructions for the recovery phase, but most patients find that the total recovery is only 2-3 days, with any swelling or bleeding resolving quickly.

Enjoying the Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants

While dentures can be an affordable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, it is well-known that traditional dentures have significant drawbacks. Dentures may need to be replaced every few years, can restrict the foods you can enjoy, and require a degree of maintenance to look and feel comfortable. Many denture wearers find it difficult to eat as they did before, and when the dentures slip or move around, it can be uncomfortable or cause speaking or swallowing issues, making the wearer self-conscious.

With All-on-4 dental implants, while the initial investment may be higher, the long-term savings and benefits are substantial. After the initial procedure, All-on-4 implants require the same care as natural teeth – brushing, flossing, and scheduled dental check-ups. All-on-4 dental implants will look, feel, and function just like natural teeth, which allows you to continue to eat and drink as you did with your natural teeth. It also gives you the comfort and confidence in your appearance that traditional dentures can’t typically provide. Gum irritation and inflammation, which can be a problem with conventional dentures, won’t be an issue. The All-on-4 dental implant procedure can improve the health of your jawbone and preserve your facial structure. All-on-4 implants are designed to last a lifetime and can be completed in just one appointment, which is ideal for those with busy lifestyles. The advantages are significant considering all the benefits of All-on-4 implants over traditional dentures.

Life with All-on-4 Dental Implants

Once you have gone through the procedure for All-on-4 dental implants, your life will look much like it did before missing teeth. The anchors, typically made from titanium, will fuse to your jawbone, providing a solid foundation for the replacement teeth to attach to. The replacement teeth will look and function much like natural teeth. Your facial shape will stay the same, you will have a strong bite, and you will not need to worry about your replacement teeth slipping or moving.

When you have missing or unhealthy teeth, you can feel very self-conscious. Many adults who struggle with dental problems have reduced self-esteem and will be hesitant to eat in public or even smile, choosing instead to hide their issues. With All-on-4 dental implants, your confidence can be restored. Rather than hiding your issues with a closed mouth, All-on-4 dental implant patients are proud of their new smiles and have the increased self-confidence to go alongside it. The implants will be crafted to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, and these custom teeth will allow you to live a confident life without concern for how others perceive you. The increase in confidence and self-esteem can be a game changer for those who have felt embarrassed to share their smile.

Why Choose Bellevue Dental Care & Implant Center?

If you are missing teeth and want your confidence back, you can see if you are a good candidate for All-on-4 implants by speaking with your dental team about your overall oral health and your options for tooth replacement. If you’re considering All-on-4 dental implants, contact Bellevue Dental Care & Implant Center today to schedule a consultation.