All-on-4®
All-on-4®
If you are dealing with tooth loss or severe decay, All-on-4® implants might be the ideal solution for you. Significant gaps in your mouth can make eating and speaking difficult, often leading to social discomfort. The All-on-4 treatment involves securing all replacement teeth to four dental implants on both the top and bottom of your mouth.
All-on-4 implants are available at Cedar Grove Dental Group in Cedar Grove and the surrounding area. Restore your smile and regain full mouth function. Call our office today at (973) 857-0567 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Why Patients Should Choose All-on-4
Patients can have false teeth attached to the implants on the same day instead of waiting several months. This expedited process doesn't require bone grafts or a large number of implants, making it quicker and more efficient. The All-on-4 implant procedure provides patients with natural-looking teeth, allowing them to comfortably chew, speak, and socialize.
For those missing only a few teeth, treatments like partial dentures, bridges, or traditional implants might be more suitable. However, All-on-4 implants are ideal for patients who have no teeth or whose teeth are failing. Additionally, for patients with certain health conditions where a bone graft is not recommended, All-on-4 implants offer a safer alternative.
“The All-on-4 implant process gives the patient natural-looking teeth and helps them feel at ease chewing, speaking, and socializing.”
Causes and Effects of Tooth Loss
According to WebMD, tooth loss is a common but not inevitable part of aging. It can result from accidents, such as slips or falls that knock out teeth, or injuries like hard blows to the face during sports or vehicle accidents. Additionally, excessive decay or gum disease can compromise a tooth's structure, leading to wear, loss, or the need for extraction by a dental professional.
Extreme tooth decay can cause severe pain and irritation, and a toothless smile can have emotional implications. Other effects of missing or damaged teeth include:
- Sensitivity to certain foods and beverages: Large cavities or failing teeth can make consuming hot or cold food and drinks difficult.
- Discomfort in the gum area: Patients without teeth may struggle with eating and speaking, and some may find wearing a complete set of dentures uncomfortable.
- Social discomfort: Missing teeth may lead patients to avoid smiling or social interactions.
These effects can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are many tooth replacement options available. Our team can help patients determine if All-on-4 is the right solution for them.
“According to WebMD, tooth loss is a common but not inevitable part of aging.”
How the All-on-4 Implant Treatment Works
Replacing either the top or bottom set of teeth with standard dental implants typically requires an implant for each individual tooth. In contrast, All-on-4 utilizes only four implants to replace an entire row of teeth. This approach is effective even for patients who have lost all their teeth. According to an article from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, these four implants support the entire arch of replacement teeth without the need for bone grafting. The implants integrate with the existing bone over time, becoming a stable part of the jaw. Some of the implants are angled to provide increased support and stability.
The All-on-4 implant treatment is comparable to traditional implants but offers a quicker procedure and recovery time. Initially, the dentist takes impressions and X-rays, which are sent to a lab. During a subsequent appointment, the patient receives local anesthesia for comfort, and any remaining damaged teeth may be removed. Then, the dental professional places screws into four locations in the upper or lower jaw. These titanium anchors support the artificial teeth across the entire mouth.
“All-on-4 implant treatment is similar to getting regular implants. However, the procedure and recovery time is faster.“
After the Procedure
Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent infection. These typically include using a soft bristle toothbrush for brushing, sleeping with your head elevated, and sticking to a soft food diet initially. Immediately after the procedure, you may experience soreness, swelling, and minor bleeding. If these symptoms worsen instead of improving, please contact our office promptly.
Patients must maintain diligent care of their implants and oral health. Like natural teeth, daily brushing and flossing are crucial. Regular dental checkups are also essential for monitoring the implants and artificial teeth to ensure they remain healthy and functional.
