All on Four Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions

Losing teeth is something you hope never happens but it is actually quite common. As we age, it is natural to have some dental problems but sometimes, medication, genetics or an accident can cause you to lose all of your teeth. Dental implants are a great option to restore your mouth.

An all-on-four implant denture  is used to replace all of the teeth on one or both arches. They are incredibly natural-looking and are very sturdy. The arch of teeth is fixed on dental implants so they cannot be removed but you can brush them like natural teeth. Here are some frequently asked questions about all-on-four dental implants:

What is their success rate? Studies reflect a 98% success rate for patients.

Who can have All-on-4 dental implants? Any healthy person who is missing all or most of their teeth on one or both the upper and lower arches can have this procedure.

How do All-on-4 dental implants differ from traditional dentures? All-on-4 is a type of denture but not in the sense that most people think of dentures. They are a fixed dental prosthesis that are secured in place with dental implants instead of relying on an adhesive product to keep them in.

Do All-on-4 dental implants look natural? Yes! The All-on-4 dental implant procedure gives you permanent teeth that look, feel and function just like your natural teeth did. No one will know you have implants unless you tell them.

How long does the All-on-4 dental implant surgery take? Surgery generally takes two and a half to three hours per arch.

What if I only need implants on one arch? What if I eventually need All-on-4 dental implants on both arches? All-on-4 implants can be placed on either the upper or lower arch if you only require one arch to be restored. Your doctor will evaluate the existing teeth of the opposite arch to determine if you may eventually need that arch done as well and might suggest performing the procedure on both arches at the same time. This will give you better results while also saving time and money.

Why don't I get my permanent set of teeth the day my implants are placed? All dental surgeries require some healing time. After your implants are placed, your doctor will place a set of temporary teeth on your implants which will act to protect the implants as you heal. After about six months of healing time, you will be able to have your permanent teeth set.

What type of cleaning will I get after my All-on-4 implant is placed? Your doctor will show you how to brush and floss your dental implants. Every four to six months, you should visit your Dentist for a professional cleaning at which they will remove your arch of teeth and clean your implants and the teeth separately.

All-on-4 dental implants are not cheap but they are a beautiful, functional way to restore your mouth. If you have financial concerns, speak with your dental office to see if they offer in-house financing or perhaps work with any third party financing companies.