All ON 4 IMPLANTS

There are many restorations to choose from when replacing missing teeth, such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures. You and your dentist should evaluate the benefits and disadvantages of each treatment.

Dental implants are the optimal solution to missing teeth due to their aesthetic appearance, durability, and lifespan. However, a single implant with a crown will cost upwards of $3000, which can add up quickly for patients needing replacements for a full mouth of dental implants. Dentures are more affordable but have a less appealing reputation, considered inconvenient and uncomfortable due to the associated maintenance of removal and cleaning along with the potential for gum and mouth irritation.

There is a new technique in tooth replacement utilizing implants' functionality with dentures implants' affordable cost. "All-on-4 implants," "All On 6 Implants," and "Teeth Tomorrow" are all branded denture supported implants using only 6 or 4 implants for an entire arch, instead of the traditional 8, making this treatment more affordable and shortening recovery time.

How Do Denture Implant Restorations Work?

Like traditional implants, a titanium or zirconia implant is surgically placed into the jaw to integrate into the bone and serve as a functioning root for an artificial tooth. A minimal number of implants can provide support for up to 16 teeth in an arch with implant-supported dentures. Implant-supported restorations allow for the same level of aesthetics and durability at a fraction of the cost.

In the case of All-on-4 implants, the four implants' placement is strategic to adequately support the entire arch. Your dentist will place two implants in the posterior of the mouth and two implants in the mouth's interior. The anterior or front implants are placed traditionally into the jaw in a straight manner. In contrast, the posterior implants are inserted at a 45-degree angle to avoid a bone graft need. Bone grafts are typical for patients who do not have enough bone density to support the posterior implants fully. The angled placement simplifies the procedure and reduces costs by eliminating the need for bone grafts of the posterior jaw bone.

Understanding the Procedure

The procedure can vary based on the particular brand of full arch implant-supported dentures you choose. However, to give an idea of the process, we will review the step-by-step process for All-on-4s.

Step1: The first step is to schedule an initial consultation so your dentist can assess whether you are a suitable candidate for implant-supported dentures. Your dentist will use 3D imaging to get a picture of your jaw bone structure and decide your new teeth' aesthetic and functional properties, such as dental crown length and bite placement.

Step 2: Your dentist will prepare a computer simulation of your mouth using 3d imaging to determine each implant's precise placement. A surgical template for fabrication may also be done at this step to serve as a guide.

Step 3: This step involves the surgery of inserting the four implants. This step also includes any additional necessary treatments, such as tooth extraction and bone shaping. Then the implants are capped with abutments and temporary teeth. At the same time, the jaw bone recovers and slowly begins to fuse with the implants. Diet during recovery must be carefully managed with soft foods to avoid any damage to the osseointegration process.

Step 4: Three months after their initial placement, the temporary teeth are removed and replaced with a permanently fixed denture. Recovery at this point should be relatively quick, with little discomfort.

New Teeth In A Day

One of the most significant benefits of implant-supported dentures is the ability to walk into your dental office needing a single or double arch and walk out with implant-supported dentures the same day. Patients can leave with a fully reconstructed smile. However, remember the same-day benefits only reflect implants and temporaries' placement, as there is no shortcut to osseointegration. This treatment is not complete until the implants have fully fused to the bone, which can take several months, and the permanent restorations bond to the implants.
For same-day treatment, your dental office must be equipped with 3D imaging technology to map your jawbone and fabricate temporary dentures. Many dentists are currently updating their office technology, so confirm the tools are available for this procedure.

How Much Do They Cost?

Several factors may affect the final price of same-day dentures. These factors include the dentist's location and the need for additional treatments such as tooth extraction and bone shaping. The fee for a single arch of implant-supported dentures can range from $30,000 to $50,000. Although this seems like a large sum, it's considerably less expensive than individually reconstructing and replacing each tooth. This option also provides more exceptional durability and longevity than old removable dentures.

Are You a Candidate?

If you require full mouth reconstruction or a complete arch replacement, implant-supported dentures such as All-on-4 could be the optimal solution for you. Schedule a consultation with a dentist experienced in performing implant-supported procedures. If you currently wear removable dentures, you may have already suffered a bone loss that must first receive treatment. Your dentist will thoroughly evaluate the health of your jaw bone to determine whether implant-supported dentures are right for you.