All-on-4® offers a simpler and more cost-effective solution to tooth loss. This technique replaces a full set of teeth with just four implants, making for an easier process, among other advantages. Here is a quick overview of how All-on-4 is restoring smiles.
The All-on-4 system supports a denture that replaces the entire arch of teeth with only four dental implants. In the past, replacing a full arch of teeth with dental implants required 6-8 implants per arch. Thanks to the All-on-4's use of angled posterior implants, only four dental implants are required to support a full arch of replacement teeth. This translates to fewer appointments and a more cost-effective process.
Due to the techniques and the reduced number of implants, more patients with compromised bone density qualify for treatment. In addition, the All-on-4 option:
All-on-4 has a high success rate, and the replacement teeth fit comfortably in the patient's mouth for years. While the denture will eventually need replacing, the implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
The process varies by patient, depending on their needs. However, it starts with the consultation and exam to determine candidacy and treatment planning. This includes determining the placement of the implants and if any preparatory treatment is necessary.
On the day of the procedure, the provider may extract any remaining teeth before strategically placing four metal implants into the lower jaw and four into the upper, followed by attachment of the abutments. Next, the periodontist sutures the gums before attaching temporary dentures are attached to the implants. The temporary denture will act as the patient's teeth through the healing process. However, the patients will leave with a set of natural-looking teeth that day.
The patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure. The initial recovery period takes about three days, during which the patient will experience swelling and discomfort that is usually well managed with over-the-counter medication. The periodontist will provide aftercare instructions that include changes to eating habits, recovery tips, side effects to watch for, and when to call the office.
It will be several months before the patient receives their permanent replacement teeth. During this time, the patients will attend checkups to determine whether healing is going as planned. It takes about 3-6 months to heal fully and for the implants to integrate into the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: All-on-4 in Fort Myers, FL
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional dentures, find out if you are a candidate for All-on-4. Our periodontist works with a range of patients to restore their smiles with this innovative procedure. Call us today to learn more.
Request an appointment or call Periodontal & Implant Specialists at 239-791-7667 for an appointment in our Fort Myers office.
All-on-4® restorations have titanium rods that fuse with the jawbone and gum tissue. The procedure will result in non-removable restorations. You cannot remove the implants yourself. Here are the details on how All-on-4 implants are permanent dental restorations.The absence of teeth can be challenging when it comes to speaking or eating. It can reduce one’s…
All-on-4 dental implants are an effective way to replace an entire row of missing teeth. The treatment process has two parts, starting with the actual dental implants, carefully placed evenly throughout the upper or lower arch of teeth. We place four implants during surgery, and after a few months of healing, the periodontist can fit…
All-on-4® implants can be a great tooth replacement option if you have lost all of your natural teeth or are missing most of them. Traditional implants are mostly used to replace single teeth or to hold onto restorations like dental bridges. It would take up to ten implants for an entire dental arch of teeth…