How Do All-on-4 Implants Work?
Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement because they rebuild lost teeth from the roots
up. However, some people are not eligible for traditional implant treatments because they have lost some bone
density in their jaw. All-on-4 is different because it utilizes areas of the bone that are naturally strong and
thick. Two implants get placed toward the front of the jaw, and two go toward the back. Then, a provisional
(temporary) denture is immediately placed on top of them. After a healing period, the provisional prosthetic gets
replaced with a permanent one.
Am I a Candidate for All-on-4 Implants?
Generally speaking, candidates for All-on-4 dental implants in Needham:
- Have lost all or most of their teeth throughout a dental arch.
- Have adequate bone density to support the implants. Most patients meet this criterion, even
without a bone graft.
- Are in fair overall health. You should be well enough to undergo minor surgery.
- Are committed to good habits. You should have an excellent oral hygiene routine and be willing
to stop any habits that could adversely affect your implants, such as smoking.
If you are not sure if All-on-4 is right for you, visit us for a consultation. Most patients who want this treatment
do qualify for it.
What Are the Benefits of All-on-4 Implants?
Some of the top benefits of All-on-4 include:
- A strong bite force. You should be able to enjoy virtually any food with All-on-4, including
foods that non-implant dentures are not able to handle.
- Attractive aesthetics. We carefully design All-on-4 restorations with the goal of making them
look as natural as possible.
- An All-on-4 denture is permanently secured to the implants that support it, so you can treat it almost like you
would treat your natural teeth.
- Jawbone preservation. Because they replace the roots of lost teeth, dental implants can prevent
much of the jawbone deterioration that normally occurs after tooth loss.
All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dental Implants
All-on-4 is usually faster and less costly than traditional implant-supported full-arch tooth replacement. It is also
less invasive because it typically requires just one surgery as opposed to two or more. The ability to avoid a bone
graft and get their new teeth on the same day as their implant surgery make All-on-4 attractive to many patients.
With all of that being said, there are some circumstances in which traditional implant treatments are preferrable.
When you come in for your consultation, your implant dentist in Needham will help you compare all of your options
and recommend the one that is best for your unique circumstances.
