A missing tooth can be a traumatic experience for many. However, with the significant advancements in the field of dentistry, there have been various tooth restoration methods on offer. The most popular among them are dental implants. What is more interesting is the all-on-4 implant procedure that can replace the entire arch of missing teeth with only four dental implants! Yes, you heard it right! Restoring your smile and happiness is now possible with all-on-4 dental implants.

How is the all-on-4 implant procedure traditionally performed?

The all-on-4 dental implant dentist will remove all the teeth and place the implants in one day. A temporary set of high-quality teeth will be placed so that it does not pressure the healing implants. The temporary set of teeth will be provided the same day your natural teeth are removed. You can also make changes depending on the temporary teeth when the final set of teeth is received from the dental lab.

How long does it take?

You will have to wear the temporary set of teeth for a minimum of eight to twelve weeks. The all-on-4 implant dentist will verify the implants once it heals to decide on the changes that need to be made on the final set of teeth.

Can permanent all-on-4 dental implant teeth be possible in one day?

The permanent all-on-4 implants explicitly created for the patient will be placed three to five months after the temporary set of teeth. Until the permanent teeth restoration is placed, the patient can still enjoy fully functional teeth and a natural-looking smile with the help of all-on-4 implants. The timeline of the all-on-4 dental implants may vary on a patient-to-patient basis. It would be best if you visited a dentist with sufficient expertise in providing different dental implants and procedures, including all-on-4 implants. Factors such as the condition of your mouth, the treatment options available, and the patient’s expectations will be considered before coming up with a treatment plan that produces top-quality results at the earliest.

Different types of all-on-4 implant bridges

Usually, pure tooth-colored zirconia bridges are used for all-on-4 implants rather than the traditional titanium gray metal and plastic teeth. It would be best if you asked your dentist whether they are using zirconia bridges or bridges made up of acrylic plastic. Zirconia comprises specialized porcelain that is comparatively thinner than a hybrid denture. It feels more like a natural tooth and not like plastic.

All-On-4 implant process

You may require preparatory work before proceeding with the procedure. The dentist will check whether there is any need for tooth extraction or treating gum disease. Once the dental problems are fixed, the dentist will place two implants toward the front of the mouth and two at an angle toward the back of the mouth. All-on-4 implants can be considered a type of implant-supported denture. The titanium implants will be inserted into the jawbone, and a temporary set of teeth with similar characteristics as that of the permanent replacement teeth will be attached to the implants immediately. Even though the new set of temporary teeth is usable, you will still have to wait for the implants to heal before chewing hard foods. The titanium implants are inserted into the jawbone by using dental implant technology. All-on-4 implants eliminate the possibility of the new teeth slipping, shifting, coming loose, or falling out.

What to expect with all-on-4?

Even though you may receive a complete set of functional teeth through all-on-4 implants, it does not mean you regain full dental functionality immediately. It would be best if you relied on soft foods until you receive the permanent set of teeth, which has a bite force similar to that of your natural teeth. You should also expect swelling and tenderness upon completion of the surgery.

If you are interested in all-on-4 implants, then you should check which dental offices near you are providing the specific services. Schedule an appointment with the all-on-4 implant dentist to check your eligibility.