What are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
You might be curious about full-mouth dental implants. Ads on TV, streaming services, and social media sites appear frequently, so it is understandable that you want more information, especially if you have lost most of your natural teeth through decay, damage, or gum disease, or you are seeking a better solution than traditional dentures, which tend to be unstable and uncomfortable.
A good and comprehensive approach, known as the All-on-4 dental implant procedure, provides full-mouth restoration where a complete upper and lower arch of artificial replacement teeth is permanently placed into your mouth, supported by four titanium posts per arch surgically embedded into your jawbone.
A three-part treatment process provides a solid foundation for your replacement teeth:
- A titanium post is surgically implanted into your jawbone, where it functions much like your natural tooth root. The four posts per arch serve as anchors for your new replacement teeth to be permanently attached to your jaw.
- The abutment is the part of the dental prosthesis that connects the implanted post and your replacement teeth. The abutment is attached to the four posts below the surrounding gum tissue.
- The arch, typically made from durable material such as zirconium or porcelain, is the visible part of your replacement teeth. Your new teeth are placed over the four abutments and are secured with very small screws.
What is the Process for All-on-4 Dental Implants?
Improving your smile with All-on-4 dental implants can transform your self-confidence, promote better oral health, and have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Dental implants offer a level of stability and comfort that traditional dentures cannot match. Your dentist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals.
The process typically includes the following steps:
- A comprehensive examination will include X-rays and other imaging scans to assess your overall oral health and the density of your jawbone structure.
- Extraction of your existing, damaged teeth will make room in your mouth for the full upper and lower arches of replacement teeth.
- Titanium posts are surgically implanted into four places in your upper jawbone and four in your lower jawbone. Once the posts are placed, temporary teeth are attached.
- Bone grafting, if needed, will be completed prior to your dentist placing your full-mouth implants.
Finally, once a few months have passed and your mouth has fully healed, your dentist will place your custom-designed prosthetic arches onto the abutments and attach your new arches of replacement teeth.
With good care and regular dental checkups, your All-on-4 dental implants should last 20 years or more, compared to only 5 to 10 years for dentures. Best of all, with a complete set of fully functional, natural-looking teeth, you will once again be able to enjoy regular, daily activities like eating, speaking, and of course, smiling.
Does Insurance Cover All-on-4 Dental Implants?
Always check with your dental insurance provider to find out what is covered for All-on-4 dental implants. Cost depends on several factors, such as the complexity of your case, the materials used, and where you live and receive treatment.
Your dentist understands that All-on-4 dental implants are a significant investment in your oral health and overall quality of life. During your initial consultation, your dentist will explain the entire process and provide a summary of costs so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and budget. To help cover what you will have to pay out of pocket, ask your dentist about third-party financing or options for making monthly payments based on what you can afford.
Related Article: All on 4 Dental Implants Reviews