Do you need dentures but don’t want to deal with messy adhesives or slipping teeth? Ask our office about All On Four. An All On Four treatment uses as few as four dental implants to secure an upper or lower denture. We can secure restorations using dental implants so patients can benefit from fully restored aesthetics and bite function. All On Four is a restorative treatment that we offer at Dental Health Group in Colmar, PA, for patients missing all of their teeth or arches of teeth.
How Dental Implants Support Dentures
Dental implants are the premier replacement option for patients with one or more missing permanent teeth. Implants offer superior support for dentures compared to past adhesives. Traditional dentures lay on top of the gums and don’t support missing teeth at the root. Implant-supported dentures offer more benefits to patients with full arches of missing teeth. Dental implants:
- Prevent Bone Loss: After you lose permanent teeth, you can also lose the jawbone beneath the gums. Jaw bone loss can contribute to problems like facial sagging and bite problems. Dental implants fuse with the jaw bone and renew the bone tissue, especially if patients receive bone grafting treatment to support the titanium posts.
- Last For Years: Restorations that utilize dental implants can last longer because they are in place. Single implants, implant-secured bridges, and implant-supported dentures like All On Four offer lasting treatment. The implant posts themselves are permanent.
- Create Stable Bites: Because implants are placed in the jaw bone, they replace the tooth root. This means that patients with implant-secured restorations can bite and chew more easily. Patients who receive implants can eat the foods they enjoy with fewer restrictions.
Implants are the gold standard because they keep your new teeth stable. Compared to removable dentures, implant dentures will stay firmly in your mouth and last forever. Dental implants are a great supportive option if you need a denture that lasts.
Getting All On Four Treatment in Colmar, PA
Before any implant treatment, we will ensure that patients have good oral health. Patients who receive implants must have enough jaw bone to support their restorations. We can recommend bone grafting as needed to prepare for treatment.
Our dental office works with local oral surgeons to place dental implants. We will take dental x-rays of the smile so the oral surgeon can strategically place the implant posts. They can use as few as four implants to secure a lower or upper arch. Over three to six months, the implant posts will fuse with the jaw bone to create a stable foundation for the restoration.
We will take dental impressions of the smile and provide a temporary restoration while the permanent dentures are made. Then, once the permanent dentures are complete, we will remove the temporary restoration and secure the permanent restoration to the implants.
While patients may need to replace their dentures after 10 to 15 years, the implants should stay in the mouth permanently. All-on-Four dentures are simple to clean because they are not removable and act like natural teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions? We can help. Read answers to questions about All-on-4 in Colmar and Lancaster, PA.
Can I get All-on-4 on both the upper and lower jaws?
Yes, All-on-4 can be done on both the upper and lower jaws for a full-mouth restoration. Some patients replace only one arch, while others restore both for better balance and function. The upper jaw may require slightly longer healing due to softer bone, but the procedure is equally effective for both arches. We’ll assess your bone density and oral health to determine the best treatment plan.
How does All-on-4 affect my facial structure?
All-on-4 implants help maintain your facial structure because it prevents bone loss in the jaw. When teeth are missing, the jawbone naturally shrinks over time, leading to a sunken or aged appearance. Since implants stimulate the bone, they help preserve volume and support facial muscles. This keeps your face looking fuller and more youthful than traditional dentures, which do not prevent bone loss.
Can I still develop gum disease with All-on-4 implants?
Yes. While the implants themselves can’t get cavities, the surrounding gum tissue can become infected if not properly cleaned. This is a form of gum disease that can threaten the stability of your implants.
Peri-implantitis happens when plaque and bacteria build up around the implants and along the gumline. If you don’t remove this infection, it can cause redness, swelling, bleeding, and gum tenderness. Over time, the infection can damage the bone that supports your implants.
How soon can I return to work after All-on-4 surgery?
Most patients can return to work within 3 to 5 days after All-on-4 surgery. This can vary based on how your body heals and how comfortable you feel. Many people feel well enough to handle light daily tasks after the first few days.
Light activity is best during the first week. If your job involves sitting at a desk or light movement, you may return sooner. But if your work requires heavy lifting, physical labor, or long hours on your feet, you may need extra time off to allow proper healing.
Does food get stuck under implant dentures?
Yes, food can get trapped under implant dentures, especially near the gumline or between the prosthetic and the implants. But since All-on-4 dentures are securely anchored, they collect less food than traditional removable dentures. You can use a water flosser, brush daily, and rinse after meals to keep the area clean and prevent buildup.
How painful is the All-on-4 procedure?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure due to anesthesia. Some swelling and soreness are normal for a few days after surgery. Pain medication and following post-op care instructions help manage recovery smoothly.
Restore Your Full Smile
Replace full arches of teeth today. Call our dental office for treatment with implant-supported dentures at (215) 774-6702. You can also request a dental appointment with us online. Our team is excited to help you find the right restoration for your needs.