How Do All-On-Four Teeth Work? Dental Implant Guide
Around one in six adults aged 65 and over has lost all their teeth. However, tooth loss can happen at any age for a variety of reasons, impacting people’s lives in different ways. So, what can you do to restore your oral health and smile?
Dental implants are a popular teeth replacement solution. You can say goodbye to traditional dentures and find a more permanent solution, such as all-on-four teeth implants. Read on to learn everything you need to know about this dental implant procedure.
What Are All-on-Four Implants?
All-on-four teeth implants are a complete set of dental implants for your upper or lower teeth. Instead of traditional implants, which focus on individual dental installation with a titanium screw for each tooth, all-on-four implants replace the entire set.
These dental implants only need four titanium screws for posts to install your new implants, which create a secure adhesive. In comparison to implant bridges, which replace one or two teeth, all-on-four implants can restore all your teeth in a day.
What Is the Dental Implant Procedure?
You will start your all-on-four implant journey with a consultation and examination. You will be asked about your dental and general medical history, along with x-rays being taken to ensure you can go ahead with the procedure.
Sometimes, during the examination, other issues may be identified that you need to resolve before having the dental implant procedure. Once your dentist confirms you are an eligible patient, you will prepare for the procedure.
Oral Surgery
Around 3 million people have dental implants in the US, with this number growing by 500,000 annually. The dental implant procedure is a type of oral surgery. Due to the efficient procedure, oral surgery usually allows you to get new teeth in a day.
All-on-Four Teeth Installation
Firstly, your dentist will ensure the natural distance of your jaws gets marked to preserve them and clean your teeth. You will then receive local or general anesthesia, and then the dentist will begin the installation stage of the all-on-four implants. If you have any remaining teeth, they will be extracted, along with any infected gum tissue.
Your dentist will install the four titanium implants into your jawbone by making an incision in your gums. Usually, these posts are installed at the front and back of your mouth to distribute the dentures evenly. Some people require a bone graft, which will lengthen the surgical process.
After this, the dentures will be secured, and the surgical site will be thoroughly cleaned. You then will begin the process of recovery.
Preparation and Recovery From Oral Surgery
The main preparation for all-on-four teeth implants will get discussed during your consultation appointment. It depends on your oral health and if any dental work is required before your dentist can install the implants. At this consultation appointment, you will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Usually, you have to fast for a certain period before surgery. It can be helpful to enlist the help of loved ones to drive you home after the procedure. You can also buy soft foods and liquids in advance to help with the recovery process.
On the day of oral surgery, it is recommended that you wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes.
All-on-Four Teeth Implant Recovery
Usually, there is some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for several days after the dental implant procedure. Your dentist will advise if there is specific pain medication you can take to manage this.
It is best not to irritate the area and follow all recovery instructions, such as avoiding smoking, gently brushing the site, and avoiding touching the surgical area. Your dentist will also advise other steps to aid healing, such as saltwater mouthwashes or medicated rinses.
Recovery is minimal after this dental implant procedure. However, it is best to rest after the procedure and avoid strenuous activities for several days. It is also important to eat soft foods to avoid irritating the surgical area and allow the area to heal.
You will also be advised to see your dental professional for check-ups to monitor the recovery process and manage any concerns that come up.
Benefits of All-on-Four Dental Implants
Dental implants have been around for thousands of years, but all-on-four implants and other oral health developments, are making the procedures easier than ever. There are many benefits of these dental implants, including:
- Receive new teeth in a day with only four implants
- Reduces the need for bone grafting
- Improved stability and durability
- Less surgical risks
- High success rates
- Fast recovery times
The implants stimulate your jawbone, which encourages bonding, increasing the chance of implant success. There is also a reduced need for bone grafting, and dental implants can save the rest of your jaw. However, sometimes bone grafting is still a requirement.
You also do not need to worry about maintaining the implants like traditional implants, as all-on-four dental implants are a permanent solution. With the proper care, they can last for over ten years.
Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of your all-on-four teeth implants depends on several factors, such as your dental coverage, the implant material, and whether you’re replacing a full or half set of teeth. It also depends on the dental clinic you attend.
On average, these implants can cost between $12,000 and $50,000. However, they are more cost-effective than individual dental implants if you are missing many teeth or traditional dentures.
Do You Qualify for All-on-Four Teeth Implants?
If you are interested in all-on-four teeth implants, it is time to schedule a consultation to see if it is an appropriate treatment for you. Finding a reputable dental provider to carry out this dental implant procedure is essential to protect your oral health and increase the chance of implant success.
Are you based in California? Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery and Dental Implants is here to help. We carry out various procedures, including all-on-four dental implants.
Book your examination today to get started; our team of dental professionals will be happy to support your oral health journey.
