If you’re missing an entire arch of teeth and are considering restoring them with the help of All-on-4 dental implants, you may be wondering what the benefits and drawbacks of this treatment truly are. After all, while you may be eager to begin once again enjoying all the perks of a complete smile, you still want to be sure you’re making the right decision. Here’s a closer look at some of the pros and cons of All-on-4, and why it could be the best decision you ever make for your oral and overall health!
What are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants are implant dentures that are secured to the arches via four strategically placed posts that are permanently attached to the jawbone. Unlike traditional dentures, you don’t remove All-on-4 dentures for cleaning or soaking, they stay in your mouth and can only be removed by a dental professional. This means that you won’t need to worry about them slipping or shifting, nor will you have to invest in special denture soaks or adhesives. In fact, you can care for them just as you would with your real teeth!
The Pros and Cons of All-on-4
It’s difficult to find any drawbacks to All-on-4. Because they’re attached to the jawbone, they won’t cause the painful sores that traditional dentures are known for. They also last longer than traditional dentures, and because you won’t need to take them out several times a day for cleaning, they are less likely to break or become damaged.
Although they do carry a small chance of dental implant failure (about 5 percent), this is about average for any dental implant treatment, and you can greatly reduce the odds of it happening by maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year. You should also be careful to avoid any dangerous oral behaviors like using your dentures as tools and smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco.
Next Steps
To qualify for All-on-4, it’s important to be in good oral health. First, you’ll need to visit your dentist for a consultation. If you are determined to be a good candidate, your dentist will develop a treatment plan for you that covers all the information you need about cost, as well as the surgery, recovery, and how to ensure your dental implants last as long as possible. If you are not deemed an ideal candidate, it may still be possible to become one following preliminary treatment, depending on your individual circumstances. This may include things like bone grafting or gum disease therapy, both of which could be necessary to ensure your dental implants have the best odds for success.
Remember, All-on-4 dental implants are a safe, long-lasting way to permanently restore an entire arch of teeth. To learn more about this treatment and see how it could bring back your healthy, beautiful smile, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Peters
Dr. Erin Peters earned her undergraduate degree at The College of New Jersey and her dental doctorate at the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. Since graduating, she has pursued a variety of continuing education topics including Invisalign, BOTOX, and non-opioid pain management. She is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association and New Jersey Dental Association. To schedule a dental implant consultation, visit our website or call 201-641-9119.