How Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Work
Thanks to modern computer-aided design and manufacturing technologies, traditional smile restoration treatments like dentures have advanced significantly over time, but they’re still not without drawbacks. For instance, patients with traditional dentures still have to deal with a variety of issues and concerns such as using denture adhesive, cleaning their dentures, and getting used to eating and speaking with them. All-on-4 or All-on-X dental implants are a modern solution to an age-old problem of missing one or multiple teeth, offering a functional, beautiful smile to patients who would prefer not to deal with the hassle of dentures.
A popular treatment alternative to traditional dentures, All-on-4 is a type of implant-supported denture that is also often referred to as All-on-X, All-on-6, or All-on-8. An All-on-4 implant is a denture which consists of a resin gum line that supports an arch of ceramic teeth. The prosthetic attaches to four, six, or eight strategically placed dental implants to create a secure fit and replace all of a patient's missing teeth.
All-on-4 dental implants works by attaching permanently to four, six, or eight dental implants. Dental implants are screw-like devices made of biocompatible metal that are implanted directly into the jawbone. These implants become osseointegrated with the patient's jawbone and mimic the root systems of natural teeth. As a result, they provide strong and secure support. All-on-4 treatment can consist of one denture to replace a single arch of teeth or two dentures to replace all of a patient's teeth.
Treatment with All-on-4 begins with the dental implant procedure, lasting anywhere from 6 to 18 months.
Preparation before the procedure may include extracting any remaining teeth, assessing remaining bone mass, gum health, or bone grafting.
Once determined that the jawbone is healthy enough to support the implant, your dentist will place the dental implants while you’re sedated or under a local anesthesia. There will be a period of healing, during which the dental implants osseointegrate with the jawbone, creating a secure bond in order to support All-on-X.
When the patient is healed and an adequate bond has been achieved, implant-supported dentures such as All-on-4 can be placed.
Implant-supported dentures such as All-on-X or All-on-4 offer several benefits and advantages over alternative smile restoration options:
Patients with implant-supported dentures should continue practicing good oral hygiene at home. They should brush and floss twice a day to maintain their new denture. We recommend using a soft-bristled nylon toothbrush and sensitive toothpaste that won't be overly abrasive.
We recommend that patients use a water flosser or soft-bristled interdental brush to clean between their gums and their dentures. This will help maintain good gum health by flushing out harmful bacteria and food debris.
Additionally, patients should continue to visit the dentist every six months for thorough exams and cleanings to address any creeping issues quickly.
The cost of treatment with dental implants can vary greatly, and the total cost of treatment depends on several factors, such as:
Our office team is always happy to provide our patients with an estimate for the cost of their treatments and the anticipated insurance coverage they should receive. We also offer additional treatment discounts for patients participating in our membership plan.
Here, we believe tailored care makes the difference, and we invite you to experience what an unexpectedly awesome, comfort-driven dental experience can do for your smile and overall health. Contact our dental office in Ballwin, MO to request a consultation with Dr. Prior about dental implants, All-on-4, or any of your smile restoration needs.
We'd love to provide you and your family with an unexpectedly awesome dental experience. Call (636) 585-0100 or schedule online to set up your visit. We'll be in touch soon.
