All-on-4® Commonly Asked Questions

If you are looking to replace lost teeth, you may have already heard about the All-on-4® implant procedure. This innovative treatment uses four sets of implants embedded inside the patient’s jaw to support dentures. These prosthetics can look and function like natural teeth. For anyone still unsure about the procedure who has questions, continue reading to see some commonly asked questions about the All-on-4® procedure.

What makes All-on-4® different?

Although regular dentures are effective, they are not always stable and can be sometimes painful and embarrassing to use. The All-on-4® implant restoration uses only four implants per dental arch to securely support a full arch of teeth. Two of the implants are placed at a unique angle to allow better contact and maximize the natural support of the existing bone. Also, the procedure is partly designed to avoid the need for bone grafting in most patients, which is sometimes necessary for the regular implant procedure. 

Who is an ideal candidate for All-on-4®?

The ideal candidate for the procedure would be someone who has lost most or all their teeth. Patients who have regular dentures will discover the difference when they change to All-on-4®. The dentist will evaluate the patient’s overall health before recommending the procedure. To be eligible for All-on-4®, the person must be healthy to reduce the risks of post-surgical complications.

Will the dental implants need additional adhesives?

The interesting part of the procedure is that there is no need for adhesives. The prosthetic teeth are fitted over the implant for stability. The teeth are fixed permanently into place and cannot be removed by the patient. If there is a need to remove the implant-supported dentures, it will be done by the dental professional.

What is the success rate of All-on-4®?

All-on-4® denture implants have a high success rate, like any other implant procedure. They are a cost-effective option for patients looking to restore missing teeth. The implants can incorporate porcelain crowns over abutments to enhance the aesthetics of dental restoration. With proper care, All-on-4®can last a lifetime. Patients can care for the teeth as usual and visit the dentist for routine checkups and cleanings.

How should the patient take care of the new implant dentures?

A lot of thoughts and expert considerations go into developing an All-on-4® device for a patient. From the strategic implant placement to the design of the oral appliance, the restoration makes oral hygiene processes convenient. All-on-4®implants are like regular teeth. However, aside from the regular brushing and dental cleaning, patients will need to dedicate extra time to cleaning around the denture base to keep the dental restoration in optimal condition.

How long does the procedure take?

The average length of the procedure depends on the patients. The surgery typically lasts about two and a half hours per arch. With All-on-4®, patients can get the teeth restoration as soon as the surgery is over, but there remains the osseointegration period where the implants fuse with the jawbone.

Final note

Anyone who has more questions about the All-on-4® implant process can book an appointment with a dentist for answers.

Request an appointment here: https://www.preferreddentalcenter.com or call Preferred Dental Center at (210) 822-8500 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.

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