If you are missing an entire arch of teeth, dentures are not the only option for rebuilding your smile. Using dental implants, you can replace your lost pearly whites with All-On-4 treatment instead. With this modern procedure, you’ll be able to enjoy a full bite again without worrying much about the issues that can come from regular dentures. Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of this treatment so that you know what to expect before starting the procedure.
How Do All-On-4 Implants Work?
While a dental implant is designed to replace a single missing tooth, it typically isn’t prudent to use it by itself if you’re addressing an entire arch of lost teeth. Instead, All-On-4 can utilize merely four titanium posts strategically embedded in the jawbone to directly support a full denture. Unlike a traditional prosthetic, this option won’t be removable, and it likely won’t even require a bone graft.
The Pros & Cons of All-On-4
All-On-4 implants offer an incredible solution for addressing severe tooth loss in one or both arches, but you’ll want to be aware of the benefits and potential drawbacks that come with the treatment. Here’s a brief look at the pros and cons:
All-On-4 Pros
Other than boosting your chewing ability, speech, and confidence, this tooth-replacement solution generally boasts a success rate of over 95% even after 10 years from being placed. This is due to the multiple steps involved in carefully embedding them in the jawbone to ensure they last decades to a lifetime. The treatment process itself is also relatively quicker compared to traditional dental implants, as the surgery and placement can happen in a single appointment. Since the restoration will be fitted directly to your jawbone, you can clean your new teeth with normal oral hygiene.
All-On-4 Cons
While this treatment usually involves less recovery time and a quicker treatment timeline, it does come with a higher cost compared to dentures. However, you won’t need replacements as frequently as traditional restorations, so you can save more in the long run. Some patients also claim to have some difficulties with speech and gum tenderness, but this should only be temporary. There is a slight risk of implant failure, but it is very rare and can easily be avoided by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash every day.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Before undergoing your All-On-4 procedure, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health and jawbone so that they can develop the perfect plan to rebuild your missing teeth. Not only will they find the best areas to place your metal posts, but they’ll also confirm that you’re free of any complications that could risk failure in the future. By following their post-op instructions, practicing oral hygiene, and visiting them every six months, you can further reduce your chances of experiencing complications with your results; that way, you can fully enjoy your new smile!
About the Author
Dr. Shinwari strives to ensure every patient gets the comprehensive and reliable care they deserve when improving or rebuilding their smiles. As a board-certified oral surgeon and proud member of the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, you can be sure that he can provide exceptional results for a wide variety of treatments, including All-On-4 dental implants. If you’d like to know more about this procedure or wish to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call us at 703-574-4717.