All-on-4 Dental Implants FAQ
All-on-4 Dental Implants are a popular treatment option for patients who are missing the majority or all of their natural teeth. There are a variety of dental implant and orthodontic appliance solutions that can address missing teeth, so in determining what solution is correct for you, it is important to consider the treatment time, comfort and feel of the implant or denture, as well as the overall cost.
To help you decide if All-on-4 is the right option for you, please review the following frequently asked questions.
How is All-on-4 different from traditional implants?
The biggest difference is the number of implants. Unlike individual implants, the All-on-4 or All-on-6 can replace all of an individual’s teeth using only four or six dental implants. All-on-4 also differs from traditional implants in that a bone graft is not typically required, and this implant type provides faster results.
What are the pros and cons to having All-on-4?
Patients who are considering All-on-4 should be aware of the following advantages and disadvantages associated with the procedure.
Advantages to All-on-4 include:
- Less invasive procedure, due to purposeful angulation
- Usually placed the same day as tooth extraction
- Implant feels natural
- Prevents jawbone deterioration
- Typically less costly than traditional implants, especially when the majority of teeth are missing
- Bone graft not generally required
- Permanent solution, provided the patient practices good oral self-care
Disadvantages to All-on-4 include:
- Requires high level of bone for implants to be placed
- Extensive process that requires a time commitment to achieve optimal results
- Complications can occur, especially if patients do not exercise good oral self-care
How long is the procedure?
All-on-4 can typically be completed within two to four hours per arch.
How painful is the All-on-4 procedure?
Most patients who get All-on-4 implants report experiencing less pain than they anticipated. This is due, in part, to the fact that you have the option of local anesthesia or IV sedation. This is also due to the extensive training and experience of dentists offering All-on-4.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for All-on-4?
Most patients are good candidates for All-on-4, whether they have bone density, age or teeth health concerns. If your oral health is good enough to have a tooth extracted, you will likely have success with All-on-4.
How long is the recovery period?
The healing process with All-on-4 is relatively quick, as compared with traditional dental implants, which have a 3 to 4 month recovery period. From the first day, the implants begin fusing to your bone. Some people are even able to eat solid food on the day of their procedure.
What is the success rate?
All-on-4 dental implants have a 98% success rate. In order to improve your likelihood of success, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits and schedule regular visits to your dentist following your procedure.
Will All-on-4 look like my natural teeth?
Yes. Patients who have All-on-4 are typically thrilled with how much the implants function, feel, and look like their natural teeth.
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