Missing all your teeth can be a significant challenge, impacting your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Dentures, while a solution, often come with discomfort and limitations.

Here's where All-on-4® dental implants come in, offering a revolutionary approach to replacing all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw.

“This treatment is a great option for patients because it provides a result that most resembles natural teeth and re-establishes normal bite forces.  Another unique benefit is a patient can leave the surgery appointment with a set of temporary teeth fixated to the implants to wear during the healing process,” explained Dr. Justin Liska of Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

The All-on-4® and Why It's Needed

Traditional implant-supported dentures require placing multiple implants (6-8) in the jawbone.

This can be time-consuming, expensive, and not ideal for patients with some bone loss.

“All-on-4® tackles these concerns by strategically placing just four implants. The two front implants are placed vertically, while the back two are angled strategically to utilize stronger bone areas, often eliminating the need for bone grafting,” said Dr. Liska.

This innovative technique allows for a fixed bridge supporting a full set of prosthetic teeth, offering a stable and natural-feeling alternative to dentures.

“This treatment concept has revolutionized the way oral surgeons think of replacing a full set of teeth,” explained Dr. Liska. “It gives a person a new sense of personal freedom, confidence, and stress relief that was impossible with traditional or implant-supported dentures.”

A Game-Changer in Dental Care

Developed in the late 1990s by Dr. Paulo Malo, All-on-4® was a breakthrough for patients seeking full-arch restorations.

Here's how it transformed dental implant treatment:

• Reduced Treatment Time: All-on-4® often allows for same-day placement of temporary teeth, significantly reducing the overall treatment duration.
  
  
• Fewer Implants: By using just four strategically placed implants, the procedure becomes more cost-effective and potentially less invasive.
  
  
• Bone Grafting Minimization: The angled placement of rear implants frequently eliminates the need for bone grafting, a separate surgical procedure.
  
  
• Improved Function and Confidence: Fixed implant-supported teeth provide superior stability and function compared to dentures, allowing patients to eat and speak with confidence.
  
  

Benefits of All-on-4® Dental Implants

The All-on-4® treatment concept offers many advantages including:

• Enhanced Stability and Security: Fixed bridges supported by implants offer unmatched stability compared to loose-fitting dentures.
  
  
• Improved Chewing Ability: Implant-supported teeth function more like natural teeth, allowing for better chewing and enjoyment of a wider range of foods.
  
  
• Preserved Jawbone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that typically occurs with missing teeth.
  
  
• Increased Confidence: A natural-looking, secure smile restores confidence in social interactions.
  
  
• Improved Speech: Fixed teeth eliminate the slipping and slurring often associated with dentures.
  
  
• Cost-Effective Solution: Fewer implants are required, lowering overall costs.
  
  
• Reduced Need for Bone Grafting: Tilting of two of the implants helps secure and stable the anchorage for the replaced arch, making bone grafting less likely.
  
  
• Faster Treatment and Healing Time: All-on-4® offers quick surgery and recovering time with a possibility for a patient to have a complete installation in one surgery.
  
  

The All-on-4® Treatment Journey

Let’s look at the All-on-4® treatment journey:

• Before the Procedure: A thorough consultation with your oral surgeon is crucial. X-rays and CT scans will assess your jawbone health and suitability for All-on-4®.
  
  
• The All-on-4® Procedure: Your oral surgeon will administer anesthesia and surgically place the four implants. In some cases, temporary teeth can be attached on the same day.
  
  
• Post-Procedure Care: Following surgery, swelling and discomfort are normal. Your oral surgeon will prescribe medication and provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and implant integration. Temporary teeth will require regular cleaning and maintenance.
  
  

“Typically, a temporary set of teeth can be placed on the same day of surgery. The temporary teeth allow you to lead a normal life immediately after surgery. After a short healing period, your general dentist will place the final bridge,” said Dr. Liska. “Your quality of life has improved, and you can start enjoying your favorite foods again with renewed confidence.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About All-on-4®

• Am I a Candidate for All-on-4®? A consultation with your dentist will determine candidacy based on jawbone health, overall health, and any underlying medical conditions.
  
  
• How Long Does the All-on-4®Procedure Take? The All-on-4® procedure is typically completed in one surgical appointment, though the entire treatment process may require multiple visits for consultation, planning, and follow-up care. The duration of the surgery itself can vary depending on individual factors, but it is generally completed within a few hours.
  
  
• Is the Procedure Painful? Anesthesia ensures comfort during the implant placement. Post-surgical discomfort is manageable with medication.
  
  
• How Do I Care for My All-on-4® Implants? Maintaining good oral hygiene practices like regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings is crucial for the longevity of your implants and overall oral health. Your dentist will provide specific cleaning instructions for your All-on-4® restoration.
  
  
• How Long Does It Take to Recover from the All-on-4® Procedure? Recovery times can vary depending on individual healing abilities and the extent of the procedure. Most patients can expect to return to their normal activities within a few days to a week after the All-on-4® surgery. It's essential to follow post-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon and attend follow-up appointments for optimal healing.
  
  
• How Do I Care for My All-on-4® Dental Bridge? Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for the long-term success of your All-on-4® dental bridge. Brushing and flossing regularly, along with routine dental check-ups and professional cleanings, help prevent plaque buildup and maintain the health of your gums and remaining teeth. Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions tailored to your individual needs.
  
  
• Are There Any Dietary Restrictions After the All-on-4® Procedure? Immediately following the All-on-4® procedure, you may be advised to stick to a soft or liquid diet to promote healing and minimize discomfort. As your recovery progresses, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods into your diet. Your oral surgeon will provide dietary guidelines based on your specific needs and healing progress.
  
  
• How Long Does All-on-4® Last? With proper care, All-on-4® implants and prosthetics can last for many years, even decades.
  
  
• Will My New Smile Look Natural? Yes! The All-on-4® dental bridge is designed to closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. Our experienced team works closely with you to customize the shape, color, and alignment of your new teeth, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile that restores your confidence and oral function.
  
  

Contact Northwest Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today to speak with our oral surgeons who are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the face, mouth, dentition, jaws, and neck, and can help you with your dental implant options, including the All-on-4® procedure.