Several people seek dental solutions to correct cases of partially missing or completely missing teeth. While there are several options in place, the most beneficial is fixed restoration because of its permanence. It facilitates easy speaking and eating without the denture being removed or loosened from its position.
With a dental implant, the teeth are fixed into the mouth and anchored to the jaw to be more stable and not easily removed. The implants also offer strong support to the teeth and are more reliable than the placement of prosthetic teeth.
Dental implant-supported dentures, also known as fixed dentures, have different types, including the all-on-4, all-on-6, and all-on-8. All-on-4 is one of the most popular. This article provides more insight.
Understanding the all-on-4 fixed implants
The all-on-4 dental implant simply refers to the placement of 4 implants into the jawbone.
- Basically, when implants are placed into the jaw, they form a stable structure linked together to provide stability for the dentures.
- The use of this kind of dental implant for restoration is more appealing because it allows for more flexibility and functionality.
- Patients can perform all activities with their teeth, eating and talking, comfortably, without the fear of the adhesive denture falling out or needing to remove it while you clean.
- It also allows uniformity and blends perfectly with natural teeth, giving it a perfectly natural feel.
Getting your all-on-4 dental implants
- All-on-4 implant procedures will generally involve an assessment by your dentist through x-rays and scans to check for the structures in your teeth and confirm the degree of bone wear if present.
- If you are suitable for an all-on-4, impressions of your mouth will be taken to manufacture the restoration and surgical guide for you.
- The procedure would be carried out under local or general anesthetic or a little sedation and typically should be completed within 2 hours.
- If you require some level of bone grafting, this can also be included at an extra cost.
Pros and cons of the all-on-4 dental implant
- The major advantage of the all-on-4 dental implant is its minimally invasive nature, which makes healing faster.
- It also offers flexibility and costs much less than the implant bridges.
- On the downside, the risk associated with the all-on-4 treatment, as with all kinds of implants, is poor positioning, which can affect the outcome and look of the implant.
Conclusion
A visit to your dentist will help determine if you are suitable for an all-on-4 dental implant or another variation.
After successful implantation, you must follow some procedures to aid with healing and all the recommendations made by a dentist for a successful surgery.
If you are comparing All-on-4 with other ways to replace a full arch of teeth, review the broader full-mouth implant options before deciding which layout fits your mouth and budget.
