Am I a Candidate for All-on-4 Dental Implants?

If you've been struggling with missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures, All-on-4® dental implants may be your answer. The providers at Whole Body Dental in Bellevue, Washington, have extensive experience with these life-changing dental restorations. In this blog, the Whole Body Dental team explains everything you need to know about All-on-4 dental implants.

What are All-on-4 dental implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are dental restorations designed to replace an entire arch of missing teeth with just four implants. Unlike traditional implants, which require an implant for each individual tooth, All-on-4 implants use just four implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. This means you can get a complete set of new teeth in just one day.

What does the procedure entail?

The procedure for All-on-4 dental implants typically involves four main steps. 

First, we examine your teeth and gums, take X-rays and impressions, and discuss your options for treatment.

Next, we place four implants into your jawbone, strategically positioning them to support your new teeth. We then attach a temporary set of replacement teeth to the implants, so you can leave the office with a new smile the same day. 

Finally, after a period of healing and integration with your jawbone, we attach your permanent set of replacement teeth to the implants.

What are the advantages of All-on-4 dental implants?

There are several advantages to choosing All-on-4 dental implants over other tooth replacement options. 

With All-on-4 implants, you can get a complete set of new teeth in just one day, whereas traditional implants may take several months. Additionally, All-on-4 implants use just four implants to support a full arch of teeth, which means less invasive surgery and a shorter recovery time. 

All-on-4 implants are anchored in your jawbone, making them feel and function like natural teeth. Because they are implanted, they can help preserve your jawbone and prevent further tooth loss, improving oral health.

Who is a candidate for All-on-4 dental implants?

Most people who are missing a full arch of teeth or have failing dentures are good candidates for All-on-4 dental implants. However, there are a few factors that we consider when determining if this treatment is right for you, including:

• Sufficient jawbone density: All-on-4 implants require a certain amount of jawbone density to provide adequate support. If you have significant bone loss, your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure before implant placement.
• Good oral health: You should have good oral health overall, with healthy gums and no active infections or gum disease.
• Non-smoker: Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure, so it's best to quit smoking before undergoing this procedure.
• Realistic expectations: It's important to have realistic expectations about what All-on-4 implants can and cannot do. Your dentist can help you understand what to expect from this treatment.

If you're interested in All-on-4 dental implants, contact the providers at Whole Body Dental or request an appointment online. We can help you determine if this treatment is right for you and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile.