Losing all your teeth can be a challenging experience, as it affects your ability to chew, speak and impact your confidence and overall well-being. However, there is an effective solution that can bring back both the function and appearance of your natural smile: All on 4 dental implants.
All-on-4 dental implants can significantly improve your quality of life by offering a permanent solution for missing teeth, replacing the need for a full denture. One of the major benefits of All-on-4 is the ability to get "teeth in a day," providing immediate function and aesthetics after implant surgery.
Let's start by looking at what a dental implant is. It is a screw-like device that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as a replacement for tooth loss and to function as the root of a missing tooth. It serves to provide a stable foundation for an artificial tooth to then be attached to.
Among the various types of dental implants, All on 4 dental implants have gained significant popularity due to their innovative approach and numerous benefits.
When every single teeth in a jaw are missing, the All on 4 concept comes into play. This innovative dental approach utilises just four dental implants to replace a full arch of missing teeth. What this means is that a complete restoration of the upper and/or lower jaw can effectively be achieved, one which is not only fully functional but also looks and feels natural. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with jawbone loss.
The All on 4 procedure involves placing four dental implants in areas of the jawbone with the highest bone density. A custom-made dental bridge is then placed on top of the implants and are attached together, providing patients with a fully functional fixed set of teeth. This method provides a stable and secure solution for those who have lost most or all of their teeth. Unlike traditional implants that might require bone grafting, All on-4 implants are designed to maximise the use of available bone.
In cases where significant jaw bone loss has occurred and extra support is necessary, the All on 6 approach may be necessary. All on 6 dental implants, like All on 4, support a full arch of teeth but use six dental implants instead of four.
| Traditional Dentures | All on 4 Dental Implants | |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Typically requires individual implants for each missing tooth, potentially involving multiple surgeries and bone grafting. | Utilizes four strategically placed implants to support a full arch of teeth, often eliminating the need for bone grafting. |
| Time | May take several months to complete, including surgery, healing, and prosthetic attachment. | Can be completed in a single day, with patients often leaving the clinic with a new set of teeth immediately. |
| Stability | May slip or move, requiring adjustments or adhesives. | Fixed in place; do not slip or move while eating or speaking. |
| Jawbone Preservation | Does not stimulate the jawbone; may lead to bone loss over time. | Stimulates the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure. |
| Function | May be uncomfortable and can restrict speech. | Allows for better chewing ability and speech. |
| Aesthetics | May not match natural teeth perfectly and can appear less natural. | Custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of natural teeth; looks and feels natural. |
| Comfort | Adhesives can be sticky and messy; may be less comfortable. | Eliminates the need for denture adhesives; more comfortable overall. |
| Convenience | Requires regular cleaning and removal; typically more costly if replacing multiple teeth. | Fixed solution; no need to remove for cleaning; more cost-effective than individual implants for each missing tooth. |
The initial appointment with a dentist is important as they will carry out a detailed dental examination and get an understanding of your dental health needs. The dentist will take necessary X-rays or CT scans and plan the procedure to evaluate the condition of your teeth and jawbone as well as to determine if you are a suitable candidate for All on 4 dental implants.
The dentist will create an individualised treatment plan for you based on the examination findings. This includes determining the number of dental implants you will need (four or six). Preparation may include any necessary extractions, treatment of gum disease, and designing your new teeth.deciding on the design and material of artificial teeth, as well as the overall timeline and cost of the treatment.
Once you have decided to go ahead with the treatment, the next step will be the placement of dental implants into the jawbone. The dental implants will be surgically inserted into the jawbone at the pre-planned angles and positions. For the All on-4 implant approach, two dental implants will be placed vertically in the front region and the other two will be placed in the back region at 30-45 degrees angle.
The surgery involves placing four titanium implants into the jawbone, which will act as anchors for the prosthetic teeth.Once the dental implants are secured in place, a set of temporary artificial teeth will be attached to provide immediate function and aesthetics. This will be replaced with a permanent one after the healing process is complete.
With the temporary artificial teeth in place, the dental implants will be left to integrate with the jawbone. This typically takes several months. During this time, regular follow-up appointments or review checks with your dentist will be scheduled to monitor the healing process. If needed, the dentist might make minor adjustments to the temporary artificial teeth during these appointments.
The temporary artificial teeth will be replaced with a custom-made permanent set of teeth once the dental implants have fully integrated with the jawbone. This will be crafted to match the shape, size and colour of the natural teeth that you originally had, in order to provide a natural-looking smile.
The healing period for this procedure is shorter compared to traditional implants, allowing for quicker recovery. Before undergoing the treatment, it's essential to assess your suitability for implant surgery, ensuring you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Myth 1: All on 4 implants are painful.
Fact: While some discomfort is normal, most patients report the pain is manageable with prescribed medication.
Myth 2: The implants will look fake.
Fact 2: Modern technology ensures the implants look very natural!
Q: How long do dental implants last?
A: All on 4 dental implants are intended to be a long-term solution, often lasting a lifetime when maintained with proper care. Regular dental check ups, cleanings and diligent oral hygiene practices are essential to prevent complications such as infections. It is also important to avoid habits that can damage the implants, such as chewing on tough objects or using teeth as tools.
Q: How much do dental implants cost?
A: The cost of All on 4 dental implants can vary depending on various factors such as the number of implants required and the type and material of artificial teeth. It is recommended to consult with a dental to determine the cost based on your specific needs and goals.
Q: Do dental implants feel natural?
A: Dental implants look and feel more natural than traditional dentures. The implant itself acts as an artificial tooth root and the artificial teeth that is attached on top of it can be customised to look like natural teeth.
Q: What material are dental implants made of?
A: Dental implants are typically made of titanium, a material that is biologically compatible with the human body.
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