For many years, the only option for replacing missing or partially missing teeth was dentures or bridges. Fortunately, modern patients have more choices available to them! Missing teeth can affect you in many different ways, from changing your appearance and limiting your diet to causing problems with your speech and self-confidence. Here at First Class Smiles, we’re able to restore smiles with ease thanks to All-on-4 dental implants! We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about All-0n-4 dental implants! To learn how these innovative implants can improve the way your smile looks and functions, keep reading below.
What are All-on-4 dental implants?
With the All-on-4 system, a set of fixed dental implants are embedded in the jaw to provide a stable platform that holds them in place. This is sometimes referred to as “implant-supported dentures,” but the connection is much more reliable than traditional methods for affixing dentures, like adhesives or natural suction.
The All-on-4 implants are a bit different than other implants, which are generally designed to replace a single tooth. The part of the implant that’s affixed to the jawbone is basically the same, but the exposed portion of the implant uses a specialized cap-shaped tip. The four tips provide a connection between the jaw and the replacement teeth, which have four matching receptacles underneath. It’s this physical connection between the implants and the new teeth that provides patients with a more natural feel, especially when speaking or chewing.
After careful examination, one of our dentists will strategically position the four implants into the jaw to ensure the most effective placement and best results. The most common arrangement for the All-on-4 implants is two near the front of the mouth and two near the back. The ones in the front are inserted in a nearly vertical alignment, while the ones in the molar area are usually placed at a steeper angle.
This increased contact with the bone of the jaw provides greater stability and support. Once the implants have been secured in place, the implant-supported dentures can be used immediately. That means a fast recovery! You’ll also be able to return to your usual routines in no time.
What are the benefits of All-on-4 dental implants?
Helps prevent bone loss
When one or more teeth are missing, the bone in the jaw often experiences some level of degradation as a result. All-on-4 implants are affixed directly to the jawbone and act a bit like the roots of natural teeth, minimizing bone loss and encouraging the retention of bone mass. This can also add some strength to the area.
Even if a patient has already experienced some level of bone loss, the All-on-4 system can be beneficial. Since the implants provide a secure connection to the existing jaw bone, there’s much less chance that any bone grafts will be needed before proceeding. This can significantly reduce recovery and treatment times.
Increased self-confidence
Treatment with All-on-4 implants gives patients a complete set of secure, natural-looking teeth. You’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite foods again, speak clearly, and share your smile proudly! Knowing that your teeth will stay in place no matter what can give you a serious boost of self-confidence. You’ll never have to worry about loose dentures again!
It’s easy to maintain good oral hygiene
It’s easy to keep your All-on-4 implants clean using many of the same oral care habits you already have. You’ll still need to brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time and floss every night before bed. Regular dental check-ups are also essential for optimum oral health. With this system, you won’t have to worry about messy adhesives or soaks for dentures, either.
It’s a permanent solution for restoring your smile
One of the biggest benefits of the All-on-4 system is that the results are a permanent solution for restoring your smile! With implants, you won’t need any of the frequent fitting sessions that traditional dentures require. Because the denture is securely fastened to your mouth via the implants, it also helps avoid the kind of gum recession that can cause traditional dentures to become loose and uncomfortable over time. With All-on-4, you’ll experience greater comfort, extra convenience, and exceptional results!
Find your confident smile again with First Class Smiles
The longer you go with a missing tooth or teeth, the more likely you are to develop issues from it. This may include gum recession, bone loss, and other oral health concerns that can become serious if left untreated over time. You should take action as soon as possible if you have missing teeth that need attention.
Once the treatment process is complete, your implants will be no different from your natural teeth in terms of their function and appearance. The All-on-4 system will also help to keep the bone healthy and strong. That means your smile will look good and feel great, too!
If you’d like to learn more about how our dental implants can improve your oral health and overall quality of life, get in touch with us today or click here to schedule an appointment. Our team is friendly and professional, and we’d be happy to walk you through all your available options, including All-on-4 dental implants!