Many patients need to have dental restorations at some point in their lives, but for those who need extensive work, all-on-four dental implants are the absolute best treatment option. This type of implant supported denture can replace all of the teeth on either the upper or lower arch, or even both. It is one of the most natural-looking restorations with the added benefit of comfort and stability.
All-On-Four Dental Implants
If your dentist believes you may be a candidate for all-on-fours, they will refer you to an oral surgeon or periodontist for further evaluation. Your dentist will provide the restoration (the implant denture), but the specialist will place your dental implants. Both doctors will work together to make sure that you receive the best care possible and have the best chance of success with your dental implants.
While a traditional denture is held in place using suction, retention, and denture adhesives, an all-on-four is stabilized using dental implants. Implants provide a more stable foundation but because they are screwed onto the implants, the denture is not removable by the patient. A traditional denture is removed for oral hygiene and sleeping, but an all-on-four is only removed during professional cleanings at your dental office or when maintenance is required.
Patients who have existing medical conditions that affect their bone mass may need an extra step in the form of bone grafting in order to prepare the area for the implants. Thousands of patients have found great success with all-on-four dental implants, improving their oral health and quality of life.
In order to make sure you choose the right dentist for your procedure, consider checking the reviews online to get a better idea of what to expect. While they aren’t always accurate, they may give you a better picture of what the practice is like.
For those who can endure implant placement surgery, all-on-four dental implants are one of the best restorative options for replacing an entire arch of teeth.