If you are missing all your natural teeth and are tired of regular dentures, you may want to consider the choice of All-on-4® dental implants. Let’s start by talking about dental implants. An implant is like a replacement root for a missing tooth. It works as the base for the replacement tooth that is fixed with the help of a connector called the abutment. For patients who have lost all their teeth, it is possible to place two implants on each arch and get an entire set of replacement teeth. Many clinics specialize in advanced dental care in dental care in El Dorado Hills. Here is a guide that will offer essential insights.
An overview of All-on-4® dental implants
Many patients often have questions about whether implant-supported dentures have any additional benefits over traditional dentures. The answer is yes – There are several benefits of dentures placed on implants. Unlike regular dentures, these implant-supported ones won’t move or slip, which can enhance oral function. Implants help prevent bone loss, which makes the treatment better than dentures.
All-on-4® dental implants basically involve placing two implants on the upper and lower jaws rather than having one implant for each missing tooth. Much like a regular implant, the procedure involves placing four implants inside the jawbone, and because these posts are made of titanium, they stay there forever and become a part of the mouth.
What is the procedure for getting All-on-4® dental implants?
- Assessment and evaluation: During the first appointment, your dentist will do a complete oral exam, take additional scans, and evaluate your health history to determine whether you are a good candidate for All-on-4® dental implants.
- Preparation: During the next step, the dentist will take impressions of your bite and images to determine the best position for the four implants. In some cases, if the patient has existing natural teeth, extractions may be necessary. If there is a massive decline in bone mass and the jawbone isn’t healthy enough to hold the implant, a bone grafting procedure can be considered.
- Surgery: Using advanced computer-assisted surgical techniques, your dentist will place the implants in precise positions. You will get local anesthesia, and depending on your needs, sedation may be an option. You will not feel any pain or discomfort. Many clinics offer dentures that can be placed on the implants on the same day of the surgery, which can restore your oral function.
Do dentures used after All-on-4® dental implants feel comfortable?
Yes, dental implants are the closest you can get to your natural teeth, and the dentures are designed to offer the perfect smile and oral functionality. While it can take some time to get used to implant-supported dentures, most patients report excellent outcomes.
Are All-on-4® dental implants ideal for every patient?
No, All-on-4® dental implants are only recommended for patients who have lost all or most of their teeth. If you have a few healthy teeth, your dentist may recommend regular implants, bridges, dentures, or crowns. However, step in for an appointment to get a better overview.
Does getting implants take time?
Yes, whether you are getting one implant or All-on-4® dental implants, you will need time to replace the missing teeth. The surgery site may require a few weeks to heal, and if you feel concerned about aesthetics, ask your dentist if they can offer temporary dentures. Some patients take longer to heal than others, and if there are additional procedures like bone grafting, the treatment time can be longer.
Check for dentists in El Dorado Hills who specialize in All-on-4® dental implants and meet them in person. Ask questions and understand the treatment before taking the next step.
