All-on-4®

What Are All-on-4 Implants?

The All-on-4 implant procedure involves placing four or more titanium implants into the jawbone to support a full dental prosthesis. These posts mimic the roots of natural teeth, allowing them to integrate with the jawbone for a secure fit. Computer-guided imaging is used to place the two posterior (rear) implants at strategic angles in areas of higher bone density. The angled implants support a full arch of false teeth without requiring additional implants or bone grafts. In many cases, the replacement arch is placed on the same day. 

Benefits of All-on-4

All-on-4 implants have many benefits over other forms of dental restoration. These include:

• Quicker recovery times
• Increased stability during chewing
• Less surgical time and discomfort
• A natural-looking smile
• Improved chewing ability, speech, and overall oral health

Who Is a Good Candidate for All-on-4?

In general, All-on-4 implants are suitable for people with several missing teeth or damage due to injury or decay. The procedure is ideal for anyone looking for a cost-effective way to restore the function and look of their smile. 

To determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure, you should consider several factors:

• Have you lost most or all of your teeth in either one or both dental arches?
• Have you experienced some degree of jawbone deterioration due to missing teeth?
• Do you have gum disease that prevents you from getting conventional implants?

If any of these conditions apply to you, All-on-4 dental implants may be a suitable solution for restoring your smile. Not only will this implant technology improve your ability to chew and speak properly, but it can also help restore self-confidence by giving you back your smile. 

All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dentures

All-on-4 implants offer a more reliable, secure fit compared to traditional dentures. Dentures are removable pieces of acrylic or porcelain held in place with suction and adhesives. While these provide an affordable way to replace missing teeth, they can often slip and move while talking or eating, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. All-on-4 implants, on the other hand, are designed to stay in place and provide a more natural feel. 

Also, while removable dentures achieve the look of a full smile, they do not stimulate the underlying bone tissue as natural tooth roots would. The lack of stimulation can lead to bone loss caused by missing teeth that traditional dentures cannot prevent. All-on-4 implants are designed with this important factor in mind, providing both form and function by mimicking a tooth root.

How Long is Recovery?

The recovery period for All-on-4 implants is generally quite quick. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities within a few days. In some cases, patients may be prescribed antibiotics or pain medications to help manage any discomfort during the healing process. It’s important to follow all instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure the best results and fastest recovery.

Osseointegration, or the process of your implants fusing with the jawbone, can take several months to complete. But once this process is complete, you will have a stable foundation for your replacement arch and can bite and chew without discomfort. 

What Can I Eat After Implant Surgery?

After dental surgery, you should only eat soft foods for the first few weeks. A soft food diet will allow your implants to integrate into your mouth properly and gives them time to heal.

Some soft food options are:

• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables
• Oatmeal
• Soup
• Pasta
• Smoothies 
• Fish
• Chicken

Maintaining Your Implants

It is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits after All-on-4 implant placement. Good oral hygiene habits include brushing and flossing twice a day and regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings. Doing so will ensure that your new teeth remain in great condition for years to come.

If you grind your teeth at night, you should consider investing in a custom-made night guard to protect your implants from any potential damage.

Frequently Asked Questions