About All-On-4®

All-On-4 dental implants is a modern technique for replacing missing teeth using dental implants. It is also known as DIEM, Teeth in a Day, and Smile Today. These methods are known as hybrid bridges.

This technique involves placing four implants in the jaw to support a complete set of replacement 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. Because fewer implants are used with this technique, it can be less expensive and easier to maintain than older methods.

If you are searching for dental implants near me, schedule a consultation AZ Max to discover why we are the best oral surgeons in Arizona. For All-On-4 implants in Mesa, AZ, All-On-4 dental implants in Tempe, AZ, and dental implants in Queen Creek, AZ and Show Low – trust the experts at AZ Max. To book an appointment or for inquires about the services we offer, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form.

All-On-4® vs. Traditional Dental Implants

Unlike traditional implants, which use multiple implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth, All-On-4 uses four or more implants. Each patient will have different needs depending on how many teeth are being replaced. We customize each case for every patient so they can have a long-lasting outcome. Your oral surgeon will discuss this in detail with you and will create a plan that is best suited to you.

Advantages

If you want a successful and affordable way to replace missing teeth, All-On-4 may be the right choice. This modern technique offers several benefits, including

  • Reduced time. The All-On-4 technique can often be completed in one day or less, compared to traditional dental implants, which can take several months.
  • Reduced cost. Since fewer implants are required, All-On-4 are less expensive than traditional methods, involving replacing each tooth individually.
  • Quicker recovery. The technique has less recovery time and discomfort because there are only four anchor locations rather than individual anchors throughout the mouth.
  • Ease of maintenance. The angled implants allow for easier cleaning and long-term care.
  • Complexity compared to older methods. The All-On-4 dental implant procedure is more straightforward, making it a good option for anyone looking to replace missing teeth with minimal hassle.

Disadvantages

While All-On-4 offers several benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. These may include

  • Inadequate support. All-On-4 may not be suitable for everyone, depending on the strength of your jaw, bone density of the jaw, and position of the teeth.
  • Increased risk of implant failure. Since only four implants are used to support an entire set of teeth, there is a greater risk of implant failure than traditional methods.
  • Learning to Speak. All-on-4 implants feel natural after a while, but there is a learning curve. You may find it difficult to talk when you first have the surgery, which becomes easier with practice.

Risks Associated With All-on-4 Dental Implants

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with All-on-4 Dental Implants. These may include:

  • Infection. If the implant site is not properly cleaned and cared for, it can become infected and cause damage to the jawbone or gums.
  • Nerve damage. Placing the implants too close to a nerve can lead to temporary or even permanent nerve damage.
  • Implant failure. There is a possibility that the implant may not fuse correctly with the jawbone, resulting in implant failure.

The Procedure

At your initial consultation, your oral surgeon will evaluate your overall dental health to see if you are a candidate for All-On-4 dental implants. They will look at your mouth, teeth, and gums during the consultation to make sure you have enough healthy bone to support the implants. They will take photographs, X-rays, and 3D images to view your jaw bone better. If you are a good candidate, the next step is to schedule the procedure.

On the day of surgery, your procedure will be done under general anesthesia. The implants will then be placed into your jaw bone. A titanium screw is placed into the implants, and the temporary teeth are screwed or clipped into place.

These temporary teeth are usually acrylic and designed to look like your natural teeth. They will be attached to the implants using angulated abutments. Your final set of teeth will be made 3-4 months after your implant surgery.

Recovery Time

Recovery time for All-On-4 will vary depending on the individual and how your body responds to the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some swelling or discomfort in your mouth and bruising around the surgical site, but this should resolve in a couple of days. It is essential to follow all instructions after the surgery to ensure a quick recovery. Typically, most patients can resume their regular activities within one or two days after surgery. However, the implants will take several months to fully integrate with your jaw bone.

Activity

It is essential to follow all post-surgery instructions carefully after receiving All-On-4 surgery. Focusing on resting during the early recovery phase will aid in healing the jawbone and gum tissue. Avoid strenuous activities, such as excessive exercise or heavy lifting for the first few days after surgery.

Brushing & Flossing

Brush and floss your teeth carefully after receiving All-On-4 surgery. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle around the surgical site. It may be too painful to floss for the first few days after surgery. However, make sure to resume this vital step once your mouth has healed sufficiently.

Diet

It is also essential to stick to a soft food diet for the first few months after surgery.This will help reduce swelling and promote healing while the implants integrate with the bone tissue. Foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and yogurt are typically well tolerated by patients. You should avoid crunchy or hard foods and anything that requires chewing with your back teeth, which may put too much pressure on the implants.

Am I a Good Candidate?

In general, you may be a good candidate for All-On-4 dental implants if:

  • You have lost all or most of your teeth or are about to lose all of your teeth
  • You have enough bone in your jaw to support the implants
  • You are healthy enough to undergo surgery and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure
  • You have chronic dry mouth from medications or autoimmune disease and suffer from uncontrollable decay

If you have any of the following conditions, you may not be a good candidate for All-On-4 surgery:

  • Active gum disease
  • An insufficient amount of jawbone to support implants
  • Certain medical conditions that make implant surgery risky (e.g., diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune diseases)

How Long Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Last?

All-On-4 implants can last for decades with proper care. Dental implants require the same daily care and maintenance as natural teeth to keep them strong, including flossing and brushing twice a day, eating a healthy diet, and scheduling regular dental checkups.

Follow Up Visits

After receiving All-On-4 surgery, it’s crucial to return for follow-up appointments with your dentist regularly. These appointments will allow your dentist to assess the success of your implants and assure that they are correctly integrating with the jawbone. The early stages of treatment will be scheduled close together, typically within the first three to six months after surgery. After that, you’ll need to visit your dentist 1-3 times a year for a thorough cleaning and checkup.

The AZ Max Difference

If you are looking for a way to improve your smile with minimal downtime and are wondering if the All-On-4 dental treatment is right for you, contact the experts at AZ Max. If you are searching for dental implants near me, visit AZ Max to see why we are the best oral surgeons in Arizona.

To schedule an appointment at one of our 5 locations, Call-Text (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form. For All-On-4 implants in Mesa, AZ, All-On-4 dental implants in Tempe, AZ, and dental implants in Queen Creek, AZ, and Show Low – trust the experts at AZ Max.