Traditional dentures are not the only way to restore your mouth and improve your quality of life. Patients who need to have one or both arches replaced have a great option with an all-on-four implant denture. This is a fixed denture, utilizing dental implants to provide stability and comfort far beyond what a traditional denture can offer. A fixed denture simply means that the appliance cannot be removed by the patient and requires a dentist to remove the denture from the implants.
What is an all-on-four dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically placed directly into the jaw bone to provide an artificial tooth route. Some patients only need four implants to support an arch, but others may need six or eight, though it is still the same process.
Your doctor will begin by making a small incision in the gum tissue at each implant site and will then drill a hole into the bone to place the implants. A healing cap is placed over each implant to protect it from infection and damage while you heal. Healing time can take up to six months, during which the implants will become integrated with your jawbone. While you are healing, you will wear a temporary denture, which is like a traditional denture that can be removed for oral hygiene and during sleep.
Once the implants are fully integrated, your dentist will remove the healing caps and place implant abutments on each implant, which provide a link from the implant to the denture. The denture is screwed down onto the abutments and then you are all set!
Who can have an all-on-four dental implant?
Your dentist will refer you to an implant specialist for an evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for all-on-four dental implants. As long as you are otherwise healthy and do not have underlying medical conditions that affect the bone, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, you are likely a candidate. Even those who are affected by bone disorders may still be able to have dental implants, but may need bone grafting to ensure ideal bone mass to support the implants.
It is important to communicate to your dental providers exactly what you are looking for from your new prosthesis and to disclose any lifestyle habits that could affect your treatment. A treatment planning consultation is a great way to discuss the financial aspects and feasibility of an all-on-four denture for your individual case.
Dental insurance can be helpful when paying for treatment, though it will not likely cover the entire cost. It is important that you investigate your dental benefits and understand what is covered and what is not. Many offices offer in-house financing or financing through a third party, which can ease the burden of your immediate out-of-pocket cost and allow you to pay over time.
If you are missing a significant number of teeth and think you might be interested in an all-on-four dental implant denture, speak with your if you could be a candidate.