All on 4 Frequently Asked Questions
You first need to understand what an All on 4 dental implant is before you start asking questions. Currently over 35 million American adults are dealing with the loss of all their teeth in either their upper or lower arch. Sometimes even both. Your teeth are underappreciated, performing an essential function daily when it comes to biting, chewing, and digesting the necessary nutrition preparing food to your digestive tract. You can choose the option of having traditional dentures created or you can consider introducing dental implants. A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone.
When allowed to bond and fuse to the bone it now acts like a tooth root. Usually, a porcelain or enamel crown fabricated in a dental lab is then affixed to the post. An all in 4 is when only four posts are used to anchor the entire arch of restored teeth. An acrylic bridge containing all the artificial crowns teeth is fastened the four posts. Here are some frequently asked questions about All on 4.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for All on 4?
If you are missing all your teeth in either arch you are a candidate. Age is not a factor. If you currently are tired of your traditional dentures, then you are a candidate.
What is the Success Rate with All on 4 Dental Implants?
After ten years of studies on completed procedures the published success rate is over 98%.
How are All on 4 Dental Implants different from Traditional Dentures?
The All on 4 approach is a permanent solution. They are stable, secured, not removable, and look, feel and function like your natural teeth.
How Long is the Implant Surgery?
The oral surgery to place the titanium posts in your jaw will take around 2.5 hours.
How Long is the Healing Process after the Surgery?
After your dentist has placed the implants, you will leave the office with a temporary set of teeth. The posts need natural time to fuse and grow to the bone. This process will take several months. The dental lab will be using this time to fabricate your permanent teeth to complete the treatment.
Do the All on 4 Dental Implants Require Any Special treatment?
We are all unique individuals. None the less, you will continue to brush your new teeth twice a day just as you had been doing with your natural teeth. You will also continue to floss at least once a day. Bacteria and plaque will continue to form in your mouth every day. Your dentist and hygienist will recommend a specific and appropriate oral hygiene plan that compliments your diet and your lifestyle.
Will The All on 4 look Natural?
The simple answer is absolutely yes. The All on 4 dental implants will look, feel and function just like your natural teeth and no one will even know you have All on 4 implants unless you tell them.
The Benefits of All on 4?
They can be cared for just like your natural teeth. They will not need to be removed and therefore no adhesives are being used as with traditional dentures. They are comfortable because you do not have the pressure of trays resting on your gums. You will experience hot and cold, you will prevent jawbone loss and facial feature changes, you will not struggle with your speech, and you will maintain a healthy smile.
