May 9, 2018 What are “All-on-4” Dental Implants? When reviewing statistics on endentulism, a term associated with loss of teeth, the data demonstrates this condition has a negative impact on oral health as well as overall quality of a patient’s life. If you are one of the estimated 35 million adults missing teeth, you may be a candidate for the All-on-4 procedure. Often patients’ first response is to replace missing teeth with dentures, but you may be surprised with the treatment outcomes when you compare dentures with implants. Dentures alone vs. All-on-4 dental implants In a 2003 study comparing patient functional and psychosocial responses to dentures, McMillan found common areas of dissatisfaction among denture wearers: Pain Areas of discomfort Poor denture stability Difficulties in eating Lack of or compromised stability Other studies found complete dentures wearers even added the following: Poor chewing ability Loss of function Decreased motor control of the tongue Reduced bite force Diminished oral sensory function What are “All-on-4” Dental Implants? The All-on-4 dental implant is a treatment alternative to dentures for patients who are missing multiple or all teeth due to disease or other conditions. In this procedure, implants are placed in the upper or lower jaw of the mouth, on either side, providing the support for a removable prosthesis or permanent bridge housing the remainder of the teeth. This is also known as “implant supported dentures,” providing benefits over dentures alone. What do All-on-4 dental implant look like? Benefits of All-on-4 dental implants: Improves your smile and appearance Frees you to chew and regain quality of food selections Benefits your overall health through better nutrition Allows you to feel confident Increases your satisfaction with social and professional relationships Preserves jaw bone and decreases the chance of bone loss and deterioration Decreases facial “sunkeness” and wrinkling from missing teeth Enhance Your Overall Quality of Life With All-on-4 dental implants, you’ll have greater comfort and confidence when smiling, speaking, and eating. Overall you’ll look better, feel better, and have a renewed outlook on life. How are All-on-4 dental implants done? In the All-on-4 procedure, 4 implants are placed in one arch of the mouth with the implant angled to allow for greater bone contact and stability vs. the traditional 6 placed in each arch. If you only need implants in either the upper or lower arch, then you can simply have one in either. How long does the All-on-4 treatment take? Typically, the procedure requires approximately 2 hours per arch; however, the total time depends on each patient’s case and situation. What are the results with All-on-4 treatments? Statistics show a 98% success rate. What are the risks or complications that could arise with dental implants? As with all surgeries there are risks and complications involved. The following are ones that may apply to dental implants: Infection Bleeding Failure of the implant where the jawbone may not fuse to it Injury to nearby nerves and muscles Injury to sinus cavities or adjacent teeth All-on-4 Dental Implant Before and Afters If you are a patient considering your treatment options for loss of teeth, you may want to contact your restorative dentist for an evaluation to see if you are a candidate for the All-on-4 procedure. Caffaratti Dental Group offers a complete patient exam evaluating the health of you gums and underlying bone structure to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. During this dental assessment, a cone-beam CT scan will be performed to visualize your bone profile, quality and volume. From all the data, a complete treatment plan will be developed based on your specific needs and oral health. Call us today to schedule your patient exam and be well on your way to a new smile!