Missing teeth not only affect the appearance; they also affect a person’s ability to eat, speak, smile, and chew. If you are struggling with tooth loss, then all four implants are the best solution to give you comfort and confidence with a bright and shiny smile.
What is all on four implant?
The full arch prosthetic devices are used to replace all teeth in the upper and lower jaw with the help of only four dental implants. In this process two dental implants are placed at the front, and the other two are placed at the back of the jaw. These attach new teeth with one bridge. Traditional techniques require one implant per tooth, but all four implant techniques use only four implants to support a full arch. These are fixed in a place and provide stability and support like natural teeth.
At Bel Air MD Dentist, we specialize in advanced implant dentistry like all on four implants to restore confidence and bright smiles.
Components of All on four implants
All-on-4 implants have three components and assist patients in decision-making. These components are
- Titanium Implants: Tiny titanium screw-like structures that are placed surgically into the jawbone. These implants act as artificial roots to support full arch prosthesis.
- Abutments: These are small connectors and link artificial teeth and crowns.
- Prosthetic Arch: A set of artificial teeth that are supported by the abutments.
Candidates for all on four implants
The right candidates for all on four implants are
- Lost maximum numbers of teeth
- Serious tooth decay or gum disease
- Who wears removable dentures
- Who want permanent solution
- Who have enough jawbone
- Nonsmoker with good oral health
Benefits
All on four Implants offer numerous advantages that make them a preferred choice over traditional dentures or individual implants:
- New functional teeth immediately after surgery.
- The entire All-on-4 implant surgery takes just 3 to 4 hours.
- One surgery provides a full set of teeth, saving time and appointments.
- Only four implants are placed in the jaw to reduce discomfort and healing time.
- Reduce the need for bone grafting
- Cost-effective solution with long-term durability.
- Helps in maintaining jawbone structure and facial appearance
- Instantly improves your smile and boosts self-confidence.
Before the procedure
All-on-Four implants require preparation before surgery.
First Appointment
During this appointment at Bel Air MD Dentist, our dentists examine your oral health and your overall health, clarify your expectations and obtain digital imaging (X-rays or 3D scans).
Treatment Plan
A customized plan is created based on your bone density, gum health and jaw structure
Pre-Surgical Instructions
You will receive instructions from the dentist before the surgery. These instructions are regarding medication, food restrictions, or any pre-operative test.
Tentative Remedies:
If you are wearing removable dentures, you may need to stop wearing them before surgery.
Procedure for all on 4 implants
Initial Consultation and Exam
The dentists will examine your oral health using digital imaging techniques like X-rays and 3D scans. They will check bone density, investigate your medical history and find out whether All-on-4 is the solution to your problem
Treatment Planning
A personalized treatment plan is developed. It includes determining the position of four implants, choosing materials for prosthetics, and preparing pre-surgical procedures.
Surgical Procedure
It is the main part of the treatment. The dentist uses local anesthesia for the patient’s comfort and then places 4 implants in the jawbone. Two implants are placed in the front, while the other two are placed at the back. This process takes 2 hours per arch.
Healing and Osseointegration
In this process, the implants are attached to the jawbone, and the temporary implant is integrated to perform functions like biological teeth. This process takes 3 to 6 months for healing, and the dentist advises you to eat soft foods.
Final Restoration
Once healing is complete, the temporary bridge is replaced with a permanent custom-designed prosthesis. It takes several months and looks like original biological teeth.
After the procedure
Proper care after the surgery is necessary for successful results. The following is what happens and how the recovery is handled:
Mild Discomfort: Swelling and soreness are common but can be treated with prescribed medicines.
Dietary Modification: Using soft foods for the first weeks helps in avoiding strain.
Follow-Up Visits: Regular visits are done to check the healing and correct the position of the prosthesis.
Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene with the help of a soft brush, a water flosser, and non-alcoholic mouthwash.
All-on-Four Implants Vs Traditional Dentures
All-on-Four Implants
All four implants only use four implants to replace the whole arch. They provide support and are securely fixed in the jawbone. These are natural-looking and improve your smile. The surgery takes approximately one day, and life span is up to 15 years.
Traditional Dentures
These are artificial teeth and are removed in place of original teeth. Dentures can rest on the gums, and they do not contribute to the prevention of bone loss. These need regular checkups for adhesive, and the life span is 5 to 8 years.
Cost of all on 4 implants
The cost of All-on-Four implants can vary according to locations, materials used, number of arches and dentist experience.
The average cost of all-on-4 implants at Bel Air MD Dentist is $20,000 to $30,000 per arch. We offer competitive pricing and flexible payment plans to make your new smile affordable.
Maintenance of all-on-4 implants
All four implants are durable and strong, and their life span can be increased by.
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Avoid smoking tobacco.
- Routine dental checkup every six months.
- Avoid eating hard foods in the first weeks after surgery.
Is there any risk?
Like other surgical procedures, all-on-four implants have certain risks:
- Poor oral health after surgery can cause infection.
- Smoking can cause failure of implants.
- smokers or those patients with poor quality bones.
- Nerve damage.
- Risk of upper jaw if implants placed incorrectly.
Why choose Bel Air MD Dentist for all on four implants
When you choose Bel Air MD Dentist, you are choosing the practices that combine clinical experience, the latest technology and caring attitude. Our specialists in implants surgey are experienced in the full-arch implementations, which guarantees the optimal result for each patient.
What makes us different:
- In-house CT scans and computer-aided design tools
- Customized fitted implants made with high quality material
- Same day treatment
- Sedation options for patient comfort.
- Aftercare support and services
FAQs
How long do All-on-Four implants last?
All four implants can last 15 to 25 years with proper care, regular checkups and excellent oral hygiene.
What if I don’t have enough bone for implants?
All-on-four implants are designed to maximize existing bone to eliminate the need for bone grafting.
Can I get all four Implants on both upper and lower jaws?
Yes, all four can be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Many patients choose a full-mouth restoration to achieve total functionality and aesthetics.
What happens if one implant fails?
It is a rare case, but the dentist can replace or adjust the prosthesis in case of failure. Early detection prevents long-term issues.
Are there any age restrictions for all on four implants?
There is no age limit. If you have good health and enough jaw bone at your 70s or 80s, you may be a candidate.
