All-on-4 Dental Implants Questions
What are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 (AO4) implants are a permanent set of fabricated teeth set on dental implants surgically placed into your jaw. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
All-on-4 dental implants…
- Are permanent teeth that can be brushed and cleaned like natural teeth
- Do not have to be taken out
- Do not need adhesives
- Are comfortable because they don’t press down on your gums
- Allow you to taste food better
- Allow you to bite with increased force, so you can eat all of your favorite foods again
- Prevent bone resorption
- Restore your facial features
How are All-on-4 Dental Implants different from dentures?
All-on-4 dental implants differ from dentures because they’re a permanent solution for missing or severely damaged teeth. The dental implants are secured directly into your own jaw, so they look, feel and function just like natural teeth.
How do All-on-4 dental implants compare to traditional implants?
The All-on-4 dental implant technique uses only four implants per arch, whereas traditional implants use anywhere from six to eight implants or more in each arch. The implants of the All-on-4 procedure are also placed at an angle, which allows for increased contact by using the natural support of your bone. In addition, the All-on-4 procedure requires no bone grafting for many patients, which is common in traditional implant procedures. Therefore, All-on-4 dental implants save both time and money.
How long is the All-on-4 dental implant surgery?
The surgery takes approximately 2.5 hours per arch.
What is the success rate with All-on-4 Dental Implants?
Published studies show a 98% success rate using All-on-4 dental implants.
Who is the ideal candidate for All-on-4 Dental Implants?
The ideal candidate for the All-on-4 dental implant procedure is someone who is missing most or all of their teeth or is currently wearing dentures. Age is not a limiting factor for All-on-4 dental implants as long the candidate is in good health.
Where will my replacement teeth be made?
Your new teeth will be crafted by certified lab technicians using sturdy, high-quality materials.
Will my results look natural?
Absolutely. The All-on-4 dental implant technique gives you permanent teeth that look, feel, and function just like real teeth. No one will know you have implants unless you tell them.
Why don't I get my permanent set of teeth the day my implants are placed?
As with any surgery, you need time to heal. A temporary set of teeth will be placed on your implants. Once the healing process is complete, your permanent teeth will be placed at a follow-up visit approximately six months after surgery.
What if I just need implants on my bottom arch? What if I someday need All-on-4 dental implants on both arches?
All-on-4 implants can be placed on just the upper or lower arch. An implant specialist will evaluate your circumstance and if they feel you might eventually need replacement teeth on both the upper and lower arches, they may suggest performing the procedure on both arches at the same time. This provides better results while also saving time and money. Your doctor will work with you to determine what best meets your health needs and financial situation.
What type of cleaning is required after an implant is placed?
Since dental implants should be treated like natural teeth, daily brushing and flossing are necessary to maintain optimal oral health.
