Introduction
The All-on-4 dental implant procedure is a revolutionary approach to restoring a full arch of teeth in a patient’s mouth using only four implants. Traditional dental implant methods often require six or more implants for each jaw.
In the All-on-4 procedure:
- Implants: Four dental implants are strategically placed in the jawbone to provide support for a full arch of teeth. These implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the jawbone over time through a process called osseointegration.
- Prosthetic Teeth: A custom-made prosthetic dental bridge or denture is then attached to the implants. This bridge or denture is designed to closely resemble natural teeth in appearance and function, restoring the patient’s ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
- Immediate Functionality: One of the key advantages of the All-on-4 procedure is that the prosthetic teeth can often be attached to the implants on the same day as the implant surgery. This means that patients can leave the dental office with a fully functional set of teeth in just one appointment, without the need for extended healing time.
- Bone Grafting: In some cases where there has been significant bone loss in the jaw, bone grafting may be necessary to augment the bone volume and provide adequate support for the implants. However, one of the benefits of the All-on-4 technique is that it often reduces the need for bone grafting compared to traditional implant methods.
- Long-term Stability: With proper care and maintenance, All-on-4 dental implants can provide a long-term solution for patients with missing teeth, offering stability, durability, and improved oral health.
Overall, the All-on-4 dental implant procedure offers a convenient and effective solution for patients who have lost a significant number of teeth and are seeking a permanent, fixed replacement option.