All on 4: What Exactly Is It?
The All-on-4 procedure is a remarkable dental and surgical method crafted for replacing missing teeth and jaw structures. These state-of-the-art fixed prosthetics form a full arch bridge so closely resembling natural teeth that only a dentist could tell their artificial nature.
A notable feature of the All-on-4 is that it relies on only 4 implants. While this reduces the complexity and the cost of surgery, it also emphasizes the importance of each implant. Losing one implant could significantly impact the overall functionality. So, transitioning from six implants to five is preferable over from four to three.
Beyond their aesthetic resemblance to natural teeth, All-on-4 bridges boast functionality akin to natural dentition. They not only look and feel authentic but also enable enhanced chewing force, facilitating the consumption of various foods. By restoring the ability to enjoy a normal diet, All-on-4 bridges promote a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
In addition to their natural appearance and texture, All-on-4 bridges function like real teeth. They not only look and feel genuine but also increase chewing force. This enables eating foods like a natural set of teeth would allow. By being able to eat a normal diet, All-on-4 bridges will enable you to live and lead a healthy lifestyle.
How Do All-on-4 Implants Enhance Functionality?
After your Initial Consultation, you’ll sit down with your dentist to discuss your health and treatment options, determining if All-on-4 is indeed the best fit for you. Treatment planning plays a big role in assessing your candidacy for All-on-4. We conduct thorough examinations to check for gum disease, signs of infection, tooth decay, and utilize X-Rays or CT scans to evaluate your jawbone health.
Once we confirm your suitability for the implants, we ensure you’re well-prepared, your health is cleared by your physicians, and proceed to schedule your procedure. The procedure itself can be carried out under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. Any compromised teeth are removed, and the jawbone is smoothed to create a stable platform. Then, precisely positioned dental implants—four per jaw—are inserted into the jawbone. Depending on the situation, the gums are either stitched closed or the implants are used to secure a temporary prosthesis.
So exactly what is this temporary Prosthesis? It serves to replace your missing teeth and gums, providing stability by splinting the implants together, allowing you to eat and speak with care during the healing phase.
Once everything is healed and ready. The implants are fused into the bone, then the final prosthesis will replace the temporary one. The permanent prosthetic is custom made and meant to mimic natural teeth or give you that “bleached” look.
Once the final prosthesis is in, we’ll provide detailed instructions on optimal care for your implants and prosthesis. It is important to brush and floss regularly just like you would for regular teeth. It is also important to make sure and have your prosthesis and implants checked during regular checkups. This may involve taking x-rays at random or set times.
Understanding the Anatomy of All-on-4 Implants
These 4 implants are arranged in a M formation on the top jaw and a W formation on the lower jaw. This innovative approach allows for more teeth to be supported by only 4 implants. This saves patients time, money, and surgery. It is a great option to consider compared to All-on-X.
The recovery phase, known as osseointegration, plays a crucial role in preventing any bone loss around your implants. These implants will help your jaw bone retain its height and width. Implants are healed in the bone and act like roots in your jaw bone. Without implants your jawbone will gradually lose height and width over time, making it harder to get implants later in the future.
Exploring the Advantages and Benefits of All-on-4
The All-on-4 procedure offers numerous advantages. If you’ve not been happy with the appearance or functionality of your teeth, All-on-4 provides a renewed ability to eat and drink as you did when your teeth were healthy. Despite being completely man-made, the prosthetics boast a remarkably natural appearance and can seamlessly match the color of natural teeth. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a “Hollywood smile,” you can opt for teeth that are bright white.
These prosthetics are comfortable and have a remarkably natural feel. You’ll feel as if your missing teeth and gums have been seamlessly restored. Moreover, the process is surprisingly time-efficient. During surgery, we start making the prototype prosthetic by scanning your implants. This prototype is worn until the area is healed enough, at which point the final prosthetic is fitted. These prosthetics feel smooth and glossy, ensuring they feel gentle against your gums and cheeks, without any sharp edges.
All-on-4 is a surgical procedure with a prosthesis that is fitted afterwards. This solution can last for many many years, but it depends on your own health, ability to maintain hygiene, and regular check ups.
Navigating the All-on-4 Treatment Process
All-on-4 procedure can be a life changing experience. While the transformation of your new teeth is significant, it is important to recognize the responsibility, preparation, and recovery involved.
To prepare for the procedure, you may need to consult with your team of physicians or other dentists. It’s important to understand that certain aspects of the All-on-4 procedure are irreversible. Once natural teeth are extracted, they cannot be reinserted afterward. Additionally, it’s essential to recognize that the procedure involves surgery, thus carrying small risks such as pain, bleeding, swelling, infection, and potential damage to surrounding area.
Ideally, you should be in the best possible state of health considering your pre-existing conditions, age, and circumstances. Keep in mind that if you undergo any form of sedation, you’ll need to keep yourself from eating or drinking for at least eight hours before the procedure.
Once the procedure is completed and implants with temporary teeth are in place, adjustments may be necessary both immediately and at a later stage. Patients typically require 24-48 hours to adapt to their new teeth, which may involve minor speech difficulties during this period.
The implants in All-on-4 are tied together providing inherent strength from the moment of placement. While you can cautiously eat with the new teeth in your mouth, it’s advisable to refrain from heavy chewing. Avoiding brittle or hard-to-chew foods for 10-12 weeks is crucial for the long-term success of your treatment.
During your recovery, you may be prescribed medications, including antibiotics to prevent infection. Taking care of yourself involves managing pain and being mindful about any new symptoms. Always keep your dentist informed about any new symptoms or concerns you may be experiencing.
Taking care of your All-on-4 is very similar to caring for a natural set of teeth. It’s essential to brush daily and incorporate either threaded floss or a Waterpik into your routine. This is crucial for maintaining the health of your mouth and All-on-4 prosthetics.
Who Are Ideal Candidates for All-on-4?
Various types of patients stand to benefit from All-on-4, like those who currently wear traditional dentures. Advanced 3D imaging using CT scanning, enables virtual modeling of the jaws. This allows evaluation of bone quality and quantity, ensuring the feasibility and success of the All-on-4 treatment.
All-on-4 may be necessary for various reasons and can offer relief to patients with dental issues such as trauma, tooth decay, advanced gum disease, and tooth loss. People who may not benefit from repairing all of their natural teeth, or those who face challenges in effectively fixing their teeth, could be suitable candidates for the procedure. However, the timing of this procedure may not be suitable for everyone and should be carefully discussed with your dentist.
Opting for All-on-4 over could spare you from additional surgeries like bone grafting and sinus lifts. This not only saves time and money but also reduces the healing period associated with more extensive surgical interventions. The savings can be significant, especially for people who don’t want long recovery times or are unwilling to wait for a year or more, as bone grafting and sinus lifts typically take longer to heal.
Using a conventional denture is a viable and cost-effective option for individuals who are missing all their teeth, known as edentulous patients. Before making a decision between a regular denture and All-on-4, it’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with your dentist. Determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for either option or if pursuing All-on-4 is the right choice for you. Rushing into a decision without careful consideration is unnecessary.
Financial Considerations: Understanding the Costs of All-on-4
The out-of-pocket cost of an All-On-4 procedure varies depending on the individual patient’s needs. An accurate estimate can only be provided by your oral surgeon after your initial consultation. Despite being a long-term solution, All-on-4 treatment is often more affordable than one might expect.
We are in network with many insurances and we also accept numerous out of network providers. Additionally, we collaborate with financing companies such as Cherry and Care Credit to provide flexible payment options. Since this is a significant decision, it’s essential to feel comfortable with your choice. During a consultation, we can offer you a personalized estimate tailored to your specific requirements.
Without insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket cost for treatment in the US market may range from $16,000 to $25,000 or more per jaw. Having a comprehensive estimate is crucial for understanding the associated costs involved.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Schedule your consultation today for the transformative benefits of the All-on-4 procedure and start on your journey towards a healthier, fuller smile. Call Now!
Embrace a Fuller, Healthier Smile with All-on-4
With its remarkable blend of functionality, aesthetics, and durability, the All-on-4 procedure offers a life-changing solution for those seeking to restore their smile and reclaim their confidence. Consult with us today to discover how All-on-4 can revolutionize your dental experience and elevate your quality of life.