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 when compared to adhesives of the past. Traditional dentures lay on top of the gums and do not 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 treatments like All On Four can eat the foods they enjoy with fewer restrictions.
All On Four 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, creating 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
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. Your dentist will 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 by preventing 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?
You can still develop gum disease with All-on-4 implants. While the implants themselves can’t get cavities, the surrounding gum tissue can become infected if not properly cleaned. Daily brushing around implants and regular professional cleanings are essential to prevent peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease that can threaten the stability of 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, depending on their comfort level. Swelling and mild discomfort are common in the first few days, so light activity is recommended. If your job requires heavy physical labor, you might need a little more recovery time.
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. However, since All-on-4 dentures are securely anchored, they collect less food than traditional removable dentures. Using a water flosser, brushing regularly, and rinsing after meals help 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
Call our dental office for treatment with implant-supported dentures today at (215) 774-6702. You can also request a dental appointment with our dental team online. Our team is excited to help you find the correct restoration for your needs.