If you require multiple missing teeth to be replaced, or if you are looking at replacing an existing denture with a superior alternative, you are probably thinking about All-on-4 dental implants. All-on-4 dental implants are a revolutionary dental solution that enables patients to have a complete denture of high-quality, artificial teeth combined with all of the benefits of dental implant technology. This helps to ensure that your new denture is as secure, discreet and long-lasting as possible and countless patients agree that All-on-4 dental implants are the most effective and natural tooth loss solution available for people with numerous missing teeth.

What happens during an All-on-4 dental implant procedure?

One of the benefits of the All-on-4 dental implant solution is that it is less invasive than many other types of implant. That said, it does still require surgery to place the implant posts. Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce the stress associated with any procedure, including All-on-4 dental implants.

Many people are frightened about the prospect of any dental procedure, let alone one which has a surgical element. Nevertheless, the surgical placement of the implant posts is essential to the design and success of the solution. Patients will always be given enough anesthetic to ensure that they aren’t in pain at any point during the procedure. However, you may be able to receive sedation if you are particularly nervous or anxious about your treatment. In some instances, a general anesthetic may be recommended.

Preparation for your implants

If you have any existing teeth that are being replaced with implants, these will need to be removed before the procedure can progress. Any infected tissue from your gums or jaw will also be removed, which will help ensure that your mouth is as healthy as possible.

Implant placement

The next step is to place the implants themselves. These are the titanium posts that will be screwed into your jawbone to hold your prosthetic teeth in place. In nearly all All-on-4 implant procedures, two implants will be placed towards the front of the arch, with another two towards the back. These will be located and angled to take advantage of the densest and healthiest bone in your jaw, which will have been pre-determined using x-rays. By placing the implant posts here, they will be stable and secure enough to be loaded with your prosthetic teeth straight away. The surgical area will be carefully cleaned and incisions sutured before you are left for a while to come around from your anesthetic and relax.

Your prosthetic teeth

While you are having your implant posts placed, your prosthetic teeth will be being created. This are custom-designed specifically for you, based on impressions and imaging that will have been taken of your mouth and teeth. These prosthetic teeth are milled from high-quality acrylic and glazed in a color that enables them to blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. They are then placed onto a denture mold that will be attached to the implant posts once everything is ready.

After your All-on-4 dental implant procedure

Since this is a surgical procedure, it is important that you allow yourself sufficient time to heal and recover after receiving your All-on-4 dental implants. You will initially have some swelling and bleeding around the site of the implant placement, and this is normal. You may be given gauze pads to bite down on, and these pads may need to be changed a few times until everything settles down. You will also probably be in some discomfort and will be prescribed pain relief or advised to get over-the-counter pain medication to help you manage.

You will be given very specific advice to follow regarding what you should and shouldn’t do and eat in the days following your procedure. You can expect to follow a soft diet, to need to keep your mouth clean by rinsing with salt water several times each day and to avoid physical activity for up to a week. You will be given instructions on how to brush your teeth too. Adhere closely to the instructions given to have the best chance at a straightforward and prompt recovery.

Ready for All-on-4 dental implants? Contact our offices today to schedule your confidential consultation for this restorative dentistry procedure that could transform both the function and appearance of your smile.