Dental implants are a proven, effective dental restoration procedure for those with missing teeth. However, it is important to note that you have options to best suit your needs. In other words, some people don’t necessarily need (or want) an implant for each tooth. Another viable option would be installing a permanent arch that can be placed with just four rods. To help you better understand this concept, we have created an easy-to-follow rundown focused on everything you need to know about your All-on-4 dental implants.
What are All-on-4 dental implants?
In the simplest terms, the All-on-4 dental implant is a hybrid denture mounted on just four implants. Unlike traditional dentures, this treatment is a permanent solution and can only be removed by a dental professional. This permanence makes it easier to maintain the implants and treat them like your real teeth. All-on-4 dental implants’ benefits include high functionality and comfort, reduced costs, and the elimination of any bone augmentation procedures.
What is the All-on-4 procedure like?
Similar to traditional dental implants, the preparation for All-on-4 implants are virtually the same. However, the actual installation and procedure of the two implants differ a little.
- Initial Consultation
When you first meet with your dentist, it will most likely resemble a routine check-up. In this consultation, you will be able to ask questions and, eventually, create a treatment plan. You will more than likely take X-rays to ensure precise placement of the dental implants and if necessary, your dentist will also schedule extractions.
- Preparation Procedures
Depending on the individual’s specific needs, the preliminary procedures will vary for each patient. However, it is common to have tooth extractions, as well as periodontal treatment. If active periodontitis goes untreated, your dental implants may become infected and fail.
If you have any form of gum disease, your dentist may need to treat this by performing scaling and root planing. However, this can all be bypassed if the affected teeth are removed.
Lastly, your dentist may take a dental impression of your teeth to ensure the denture is available for installation once your rods are implanted.
- Surgical Procedure
During this procedure, patients are typically prescribed local anesthesia.
To ensure there is enough stability to install an entire fixed arch, two dental implants will usually be mounted at the front, and two will be mounted in the back at a 45-degree angle. Because of this, any additional procedures like bone grafting will often be unnecessary.
- The Prosthesis Fitting
Depending on your mouth’s condition after surgery, your denture will likely not be fitted on the same day. If this is the case, you will leave the dental office with the newly installed implants and, in some cases, a temporary denture. When the healing is complete, the final prosthesis will usually get mounted about 3-6 months after the procedure.
How do you recover from an All-on-4 procedure?
Most patients can return to their usual routine within a few days and, at most, a week.
With this dental implant procedure, the mounted prosthesis will fuse to the bone much faster than individual or traditional implants. Because of the stability created by design, full recovery may take less time than the usual eight months.
Here are some tips to help you take the best care of your All-on-4 dental implants:
- Control the bleeding by biting down on gauze.
- If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours, prepare and use a saltwater rinse.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly but very gently.
- Avoid physical exercise for 3-4 days and rest as much as you can.
- For at least two months following the procedure, do not smoke.
- For at least three months following the procedure, continue eating a soft food diet.
What are the most common issues with All-on-4 implants?
The most common risks involving All-on 4 dental implants include proprioception, parafunction, speech issues, infection, and implant failure. If you experience any of these issues, contact your dentist as they may be able to help.
How do you clean All-on-4 dental implants?
Because All-on-4 implants cannot be removed, they are designed to allow you to care for them as you would your natural teeth. So, brush your prosthetic at least twice a day or after every meal.
You can use either a manual or electric brush, as long as it is soft-bristled. Use circular motions all around the teeth and prosthesis.
It is also recommended that you floss and use water picks. These are very effective in removing any leftover food that can’t be reached with your toothbrush. Finish your cleaning routine by using a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
For extra care, you can invest in a rubber-tip gum simulator as they help clean out places your prosthesis touches your gums.
If you are interested in All-on-4 dental implant treatment, Schedule an Consultation with a Scottsdale Cosmetic Dentist Today.
Located at 10630 North Scottsdale Road, Douglas Family Dentistry serves families in Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Glendale, and surrounding Arizona communities. To schedule an appointment to discuss the dental procedures and services we offer, call our office today at 480-948-3680.
