What Are All on Four Dental Implants?

If you have lost most of your teeth on either the top or bottom of your mouth or even both, all-on-four dental implant dentures are an incredible way to restore the form and function of your mouth. This type of denture is not removable as it is screwed into implants that have been placed in your jaw. Traditional removable dentures can be a hassle and uncomfortable. If you have the option, all-on-four dental implants are a natural-looking and sturdy prosthesis.

What is an all-on-four denture?

Dental implants are small titanium screws that are placed into your jaw bone and act as the root of a missing tooth. You will need to undergo a minor surgery with an oral surgeon for implant placement. Once your implant is placed and you are completely healed, a dental implant crown is placed onto the implant using either a screw or cement. Titanium Implants are able to fuse to your jawbone to give you a strong, long-lasting foundation for your new dental restoration.

For this procedure, four or more dental implants are placed on the top and/or bottom arch. With an all-on-four dental prosthesis, you do not have to have one implant placed for each individual tooth to be replaced. Your oral surgeon will place two implants in the back and two in the front for each arch to be restored. After your implants are in place, a complete arch of porcelain teeth are placed on top of the implants and screwed down.

Having implants placed in your jaw can actually prevent future bone loss. This will help maintain your facial structure and ensure better oral health.

Once your implants have been placed, your doctor will fabricate a temporary arch of teeth to be worn while you heal for about six months. During this time it is important that you stick to soft foods and do not bite into anything! Cut all of your food so that your temporary is not damaged and does not come loose.

After your six months of healing, you will return to your Dentist to have your custom, permanent teeth set!

How do you know if all-on-four dental implant treatment is right for you?

As always, the best way to decide your ideal route of treatment is to speak with your dentist. Set up a consultation to discuss your concerns and goals for your smile. During this consultation, you can also speak with the office about any financial concerns that you may have. If you have dental insurance, you might consider breaking your treatment up over the course of two separate years, letting the healing time span the six months from one year to another so as to take advantage of two years worth of maximum benefits paid by your insurance. Most insurances only allow $1500 to $2000 paid out per year but $4000 can make a nice difference when the cost of treatment is so high.