All-on-4® Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

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Anna Roth

Medical Content Writer

Dr. Guzin

Medical Reviewer

All-on-4 dental implants have emerged as a revolutionary solution for those seeking to restore their smile, regain dental functionality and improve self-esteem. This innovative procedure, developed by Nobel Biocare, and referred to as “teeth in a day,” offers an efficient and highly effective way to replace a full arch of both upper and lower teeth.

Below we’ll explore the pros and cons, costs, insurance considerations, and what to expect during and after the all-on-4 procedure.

What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants represent a remarkable advancement in dental implant technology. Unlike traditional implants, requiring multiple screws for support, All-on-4 implants utilize only four, strategically placed dental implants. These implants act as anchors for a full arch of prosthetic teeth, providing stability and functionality.

The Procedure

The procedure begins with the placement of four titanium implants, mimicking the function of natural tooth roots, providing a secure foundation for the prosthetic arch.

First, a temporary bridge, usually constructed from acrylic, is attached in a single appointment, providing patients with a new set of teeth on the same day.This temporary prosthesis installed for approximately six months, allows the gums to heal and adapt before a final impression is taken for the permanent prosthesis, made of various materials, including titanium, zirconia, or porcelain.

Cosmetic Benefits

All-on-4 dental implants create a natural-looking smile. With each arch containing 10 to 14 teeth, the result is a complete set of upper or lower teeth, blending seamlessly with your natural facial aesthetics.

Pros and Cons of All-on-4 Dental Implants

Pros:

Elimination of Removable Dentures: All-on-4 implants eradicate the inconvenience of removable dentures, offering a permanent and stable solution.

Swift Results: Patients receive new teeth in one day, making it a time-efficient option.

Minimal Bone Grafting Need: Unlike traditional implant procedures requiring extensive bone grafting, All-on-4 implants usually work for patients with bone loss or sinus issues.

Minimal Disruption: Recovery after All-on-4 implant placement is typically smoother, with minimal food restrictions once the mouth has healed.

Cost-Effective: All-on-4 implants are a more cost-effective option compared to replacing an entire arch with individual implants.

High Patient Satisfaction: Patients report a high degree of satisfaction, restoring their teeth, confidence, and overall quality of life.

Cost: All-on-4 dental implants are expensive in the US, UK, Canada and Australia but working with a HebeDoc approved dentist in Mexico or Turkey, it doesn’t have to be.

Cons:

Failed Implant Risk: While uncommon, there’s a slight risk of implant failure if the bone fails to grow properly around the implanted screw.

Speech Difficulties: Some patients experience speech difficulties initially due to the thickness of implant-supported bridges.

Night Guard Requirement: Wearing a night guard to protect teeth from clenching and grinding is recommended post procedure.

Extended Recovery: Tender gums and eating difficulty for a couple of weeks post-surgery, while uncommon, has been reported by some patients.

Cost of All-on-4 Dental Implants

The cost of All-on-4 dental implants varies substantially, averaging $33,469 per arch in the U.S. Factors influencing cost include whether you’re getting prosthetic teeth for one or both arches, the implant dentist’s level of experience, location, and anesthesia type.

How Much Can I Save on All-on-4?

Savings up to 75% may be found with HebeDoc approved dentists in Mexico. The same $33,469 all-on-4, Nobel Biocare arch installed in the US may be had for $8,000 – $12,000 with one of our HebeDoc approved dentists in Mexico. That’s right. It’s the same high-quality dental prosthetic, installed by a dental specialist.

All-on-4 Dental Implant Before and After

To understand visually the transformative power of All-on-4 dental implants, explore before and after photos shared by surgeons performing the procedure. These images demonstrate the remarkable changes in patients’ smiles and overall appearance.

Will Insurance Cover All-on-4 Dental Implants?

While dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost, speaking with your insurance provider is required to assess coverage.

Surgical Preparation for All-on-4 Dental Implants

Before undergoing the All-on-4 procedure, you’ll have an initial consultation with an implant dentist or oral surgeon. This consultation will determine your suitability for the procedure.

X-rays or a CT-scan will be used to assess your dental condition and plan the implant placement procedure.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Day of Surgery

Surgery day, you’ll be placed under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation, depending on your specific case. The dentist will remove any remaining teeth and infected gum tissue.

Next, the four implant screws will be strategically placed to anchor the new prosthetic teeth.

Finally, you’ll receive temporary arches while your jaw heals over several months and the implants fuse to the bone, a process known as osseointegration.

Longevity of All-on-4 Dental Implants

With a lifespan averaging 20 years, all-on-4 implants offer a long-lasting solution. Factors influencing the longevity include the materials used for the prosthetic teeth, oral hygiene, and preventive measures against chips or cracks. Regular dental care and professional cleanings are crucial to maintaining the implants’ durability.

Concerns and Risks

While All-on-4 implants have a high success rate and are considered safe, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. These risks may include infection, nerve or gum damage, or prosthetic teeth issues. Discuss any concerns with your dentist before proceeding.

Diet and Care following All-on-4 Dental Implant Surgery

After the procedure, a specific diet plan is used to ease any discomfort and facilitate healing. Gradually you will transition to a normal diet, choosing easy to chew foods that won’t disrupt the healing process.

Cleaning All-on-4 Dental Implants

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is advised for the longevity of all-on-4 dental implants. Water flossers and sulcus brushes are recommended to clean around the gumline and implant area effectively. Regular dental visits for cleanings and check-ups play a vital role in preserving your implant’s lifespan.

How All-on-4 Differs From Conventional Implants and Snap-on Dentures

All-on-4 dental implants offer several advantages over traditional implant restoration. Conventional implants require more screws and potentially bone grafting. All-on-4 utilizes just four implants, often avoiding the need for grafting. The angled implant placement provides stability and reduces the bone-density requirement.

Compared to snap-on dentures, All-on-4 implants provide a more secure and permanent solution. Snap-on dentures, while they offer an alternative to traditional removable dentures, still come with the risk of accidental removal or shifting. In contrast, All-on-4 dental implants never need to be removed, ensuring stability and natural appearance.

These are not procedures to be performed by a general practitioner. HebeDoc recommends consulting with an experienced, qualified dentist who specializes in implantology or cosmetic dentistry; a dentist specializing in implants performs thousands of these procedures and will assess your suitability.

The Clear Choice Center Controversy

Some patients have reported pressure to get more implants than they needed. If you’re recommended for All-on-4 implants and have reservations, seek an independent opinion from a prosthodontist unaffiliated with ClearChoice and can provide valuable insights and peace of mind.

All-on-4 implants have gained popularity among people searching for an efficient and long-lasting dental restoration option offering remarkable cosmetic results and with an interest in avoiding extensive bone grafting.

Make an informed decision by consulting with an experienced dentist. All-on-4 dental implants can provide a beautiful and enduring solution to missing teeth, allowing you to enjoy a natural-looking smile.

This article is for informational purposes. It is not meant to be construed as dental advice or dental diagnosis or treatment. Consulting with a qualified dental professional before beginning or changing your dental treatment is strongly advised.

Dr. Guzin

Ankara Turkey

Dr. Guzin Kırsaçlıoğlu graduated from Ankara Dental School in 1982 and opened her own practice. Dr.Kirsaçlioglu completed her Master’s in Cosmetic Dentistry at New York University in 2011 as well as annual continuing education courses on dental implants in France, Germany, Spain, and Israel. Today, Dr. Kirsaçlioglu is an internationally recognized, multidisciplinary dental professional running a dental practice with a staff of 18.

She is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the Turkish Dental Association (TDB), European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (EAED), American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AAD) and the European Association for Osseointegration (EAO).

She has authored numerous dental related articles covering the topics of both dental implants and dental aesthetics. When not treating patients, Dr Kirsaçlioglu volunteers in rural villages, teaching children about good oral health and preventative dental care.