Replacing a missing tooth or missing teeth can be a complex process, and there are many factors to consider when evaluating your treatment options. One of the primary factors to consider is which type of implant best suits your needs: traditional dental implants or All-on-4 dental implants.
In this blog, we will consider the differences between each treatment and the pros and cons of both. We hope you have a better understanding of these treatments and will be able to make an informed decision about which treatment is best for you.
Traditional vs. All-on-4
Traditional Implants: Traditional dental implants involve surgically inserting a titanium post that acts as a tooth root into the jawbone, allowing it to fuse with the bone over several weeks while healing. Once healed, an abutment and crown are placed on the implant to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement that looks just like your natural teeth.
Traditional implants require a strong, healthy jaw bone to succeed, so this type of implant is not suitable for patients with weak or unhealthy jaw bones. A bone graft may be necessary for traditional implants to be successful. Bone grafting involves transplanting bone material from another area of the body to the jawbone to improve bone density and strength.
All-on-4 Dental Implants: All-on-4 dental implants are a revolutionary alternative to traditional dentures. All-on-4 implants use four to six strategically placed implants to support an entire arch of new teeth. The posterior implants tilt at a 45-degree angle, which is beneficial for individuals with bone loss in the jaw and often eliminates the need for bone grafting. For patients who need a full denture, All-on-4 is the optimal choice for treating tooth loss.
All-on-4 dental implants are more cost effective than traditional implant treatments and require a shorter healing period because there are fewer implants. This process has been coined ‘Teeth in a Day’ because it allows individuals to receive durable temporary dentures right after the implants are inserted into their jawbone.
How Traditional Dental Implants Work
Traditional dental implants use a single titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone. Over time, the bone grows around the implant and fuses with the post, creating a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Once healed, an abutment is attached to connect the implant post to a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture.
If you require multiple implants, the process can be longer and more expensive than All-on-4 dental implants because each implant requires its own surgical procedure, healing period, and restoration.
Benefits of Traditional Dental Implants
- They provide a secure, permanent and natural-looking tooth replacement
- They are very durable and can last for many years
- They don’t require any special care or maintenance
Drawbacks of Traditional Dental Implants
- The procedure is more complex than All-on-4 implants
- Healing time can be lengthy
- The cost of the procedure can be expensive
How All-on-4 Dental Implants Work
All-on-4 dental implants use four or more strategically placed posts surgically implanted into your jaw and connected to an acrylic bridge. Unlike traditional implants, you do not have to wait for the implant to fuse with the bone (osteointegration) before the replacement teeth are placed. You will leave the office with provisional teeth on the day of implant placement. Your final, permanent set of teeth will be made 3-4 months after surgery.
Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants
- They are less expensive than traditional implants
- Shorter treatment time
- Recovery time is shorter than with traditional implants
- They provide a secure, natural-looking smile quickly
- 95% success rate
Drawbacks of All-on-4 Dental Implants
- They may not be as durable as traditional implants
- They may require more frequent dental check-ups and maintenance
- Not all patients are suitable candidates for All-on-4 implants
Both traditional dental implants and All-on-4 dental implants can provide an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Traditional implants offer a more secure and permanent solution, while All-on-4 implants are often less expensive and may require less treatment time. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your needs, bone density, budget, and desired outcome.
Your Dental Implant Specialists in Arizona
When you meet with an oral surgeon at AZ Max, we will evaluate your oral health to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. We will determine if your jaw has adequate bone density to support the implants. Before proceeding with dental implant surgery, we will ensure that you understand what is involved in the All-on-4 and traditional implant procedures.If you are searching for dental implants near me, contact AZ Max to see why we are the best oral surgeons in the Phoenix East Valley. To schedule an appointment with one of our qualified surgeons, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form. For dental implants in Mesa, AZ, or dental implants in Tempe, AZ, trust the experts at AZ Max. We look forward to being your dental implant specialists!
