Considering that over 35 million Americans are missing their natural teeth, their need for replacement options is great. Not only do you need your teeth for the function of chewing, but a beautiful smile also increases self-confidence. Thankfully, implants can provide full-mouth tooth replacement and smile restoration.
All-on-4 Implants are non-removable dentures fixed to 4-6 dental implants that replace all the teeth of one jaw, upper or lower. This denture-style prosthesis attaches by screwing it onto multiple implants. Sometimes referred to as a full-arch fixed dental implant bridge, this prosthesis is often presented as a treatment option for patients who are going to get all their teeth removed in one mouth arch.
Although the all-on-4 implants have become a popular replacement option, are they a good choice for you?
Although all-on-4 implants are growingly popular, a few other options for full-mouth restoration such as implant-supported bridgework, removable implant denture, and the traditional full denture are also available. Because the All-on-4 implant device is just one of several options for tooth replacement and full-mouth smile restoration, it is important to know if they are a good choice for you based on your own needs and current oral health.
All-on-4 implant dentures have several advantages including:
- Convenience: Patients can often have their teeth the same day as the implant surgery.
- Comfort: They are more comfortable than traditional dentures because they stay in place and do not lie on top of your gums, which can sometimes cause denture irritation.
- Functional: Because the All-on-4 is a fixed device, it does not move you lose when you chew, which allows you to enjoy a more normal chewing ability compared to traditional dentures.
- Long-Lasting: Dental implants can last many years if maintained properly. Most dental professionals agree that patients can expect All-on-4 implants to last 20 or more with proper care.
- Aesthetics: The prosthesis looks natural and creates an attractive smile.
However, the All-on-4 option also has some facts about them that you should consider such as:
- Bone Reduction: Typically, some reduction of bone is necessary to make room for the All-on-4 device, which means that you will lose some of your own bone in the process. So, if you have a healthy jawbone, All-on-4’s could be the right choice for you.
- Angled Implants: Usually, the back implants must be angled to support the prosthesis. Sometimes, your soft tissues do not like angled implants. So, you will want to discuss your soft tissue (gum) health with your implant surgeon to make sure that your gums are healthy enough for this option.
- Speech issues: The device is typically bulkier than implant bridgework or a traditional denture or removable implant-supported denture. Some patients find that the design can change their speech. Although this can occur, many patients learn to adapt to the change.
- Cleaning Limitations: When considering if an All-on-4 implant prosthesis is right for you, you should know some of the other facts about them such as that the prosthesis can only be removed by your implant dentist. You will not be able to remove it by yourself, which means that cleaning underneath it will not be possible.
- Biting Forces: If you grind or clench your teeth, an All-on-4 implant denture may not be the best option for you. Tooth and denture breakage is common if you have a strong bite or grind/clench your teeth. Having the device can increase those biting forces especially if you have them on both upper and lower arches. Excessive biting forces can not only damage teeth and wear your dentures quickly, but it can also cause bone loss around the implants.
For many patients, All-on-4 implants can be a great option for full-mouth tooth replacement because they give you a smile in a timely manner. However, you should discuss all the pros and cons with a highly qualified dental implant specialist and investigate all restoration options so that you can make the best decision for yourself.
Here at The Dental Implant Center of PA, we offer a unique opportunity for you to consult with highly qualified implant specialists from oral surgeons, periodontists, and dental implant dentists who are all in one local implant practice location.
So, if you are considering replacing missing teeth and wondering if the All-on-4 implant option is the right choice for you, contact us for a consultation so that we can give you all of the options and help you make the best choice!
