How many teeth do you get with all-on-4 implants?
Severe tooth loss significantly affects chewing, speech, and the confidence to smile. It also impacts overall health. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers an innovative solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth. All-on-4 dental implants have transformed the lives of many by restoring full dental functionality. Unlike traditional removable dentures, this method offers a permanent, lifelong solution. But the question remains, “How many teeth do you get with all-on-4?”
All-on-4 implants can swiftly replace missing teeth, eliminating the prolonged treatment periods typically required for conventional implants. These prosthetic teeth are designed to replicate real teeth’ natural look, feel, and function, providing a seamless dental restoration solution.
How All-on-4 Dental Implants Work?
The All-on-4 implant technique utilizes strategically placed dental implants to support a full, fixed denture for either your upper or lower jaw or both. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums and require adhesives for stability, All-on-4 implants are permanently anchored into the jawbone, providing exceptional stability and function.
Here's how it works
- Four Implants: As the name suggests, the All-on-4 procedure typically involves placing four strategically positioned dental implants in the jawbone. These implants are usually made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses seamlessly with bone tissue.
- Strategic Placement: Unlike traditional implants, which require one implant per missing tooth, all-on-4 implants leverage strategic placement. Two implants are positioned at the front of the jawbone, while the other two are placed at an angle towards the back. This angled placement allows for better utilization of available bone and provides additional support for the denture.
- Fixed Denture: Once the implants are placed and integrated with the jawbone (typically taking several months), a custom-made, full-arch denture is securely attached to the implants. This denture is designed to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, restoring your smile and confidence.
How Does All-On-4 Differs from Other Dental Implants?
Why you may not be suitable for getting a dental implant
All-on-4 implants represent a significant advancement in dental technology, offering distinct advantages over traditional dentures and even other types of dental implants. Here’s how they differ:
1. Permanent and Natural Feel
Unlike traditional dentures, which must be removed for cleaning and at bedtime, All-on-4 implants provide a permanent solution. Patients can care for prosthetic teeth like natural teeth, enhancing convenience and hygiene.
2. Stability and Comfort
With All-on-4, the dentures are securely fixed to the implants, eliminating the need for adhesives. This stability ensures no slipping, wobbling, or discomfort often associated with removable dentures, giving patients confidence in their smile and eating experience.
3. Enhanced Functionality
Traditional dentures can restrict certain foods and require caution while chewing. All-on-4 implants restore full chewing ability, allowing patients to enjoy a varied diet without concerns about denture movement.
4. Longevity and Maintenance
While traditional dentures need periodic replacement, All-on-4 implants are durable and can last a decade or more without requiring restoration. This longevity provides peace of mind and reduces long-term costs associated with dental care.
5. Improved Comfort and Sensation
Unlike traditional dentures, the fixed bridge of All-on-4 implants does not cover the palate, leading to less irritation to the gum tissue and no alteration in taste perception or sensitivity to temperature changes. This feature enhances overall comfort and natural sensation in the mouth.
So, How Many Teeth Do You Get with All-on-4 Implants?
When considering All-on-4 implants, a common question arises: How many teeth do you get with all-on-4 dental implants? An All-on-4 implant-supported denture typically provides 10 to 14 teeth tailored to fit your dental structure and needs.
The standard configuration generally includes:
- Four incisors: Positioned at the front of the mouth, these teeth are essential for biting and contribute significantly to facial aesthetics.
- Two canines: These teeth, often called ‘eye teeth,’ are crucial for tearing and gripping food, playing a pivotal role in chewing.
- Four premolars: Situated between the canines and molars, premolars aid in grinding and crushing food particles, enhancing chewing efficiency.
- Four molars: Located at the rear of the mouth, molars are the strongest teeth, designed for thorough grinding of food before swallowing.
While the standard set comprises 14 teeth, the precise number may vary based on individual requirements to optimize comfort and functionality. Some patients might benefit from slightly fewer teeth on the denture, ensuring a more tailored fit and better overall performance. During your consultation at Seattle’s Best Smile, your dentist will conduct a thorough assessment, discuss your specific needs, and recommend the ideal number of teeth for your personalized All-on-4 treatment plan.
Aftercare and Maintenance of All-on-4 Dental Implants
Following the All-on-4 procedure, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to the longevity of your implants and prosthetic teeth. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings will help ensure your new smile remains healthy and functional for years.
Considering All-on-4 Dental Implants in Kirkland, WA?
All-on-4 dental implants offer a transformative solution for patients seeking a complete smile restoration. Providing a full set of teeth with just four implants per arch, All-on-4 combines efficiency with aesthetic appeal, helping you regain confidence in your smile. If you want to learn more about All-on-4 or explore your options for dental implants, schedule a consultation with our experts at Seattle’s Best Smile today.
FAQ
Which is better, all-on-4 vs all-on-6 dental implants?
All-on-4 uses four implants per arch, while All-on-6 uses six. Some prefer All-on-6 for its perceived stronger foundation and even chewing force distribution. Dr. Kleinman customizes implant placement based on bone availability, using virtual planning for optimal results and bone preservation. The choice depends on individual bone health and functional needs, ensuring a durable and comfortable smile.
What Happens If You Avoid All-on-4?
Losing teeth leads to bone loss in the jaw. Dentures and crowns don’t stop this process, causing the jawbone to weaken over time and creating a sunken facial appearance. Dental implants, like those in All-on-4, prevent bone resorption by stimulating the jawbone, preserving facial aesthetics and overall oral health.
Who is not a candidate for an all-on-4 dental implant?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for all-on-4 dental implants. Individuals with a history of significant oral health issues or certain medical conditions may not be ideal candidates for this procedure. Specifically, those with uncontrolled diabetes or other health conditions that could impede the healing process following implant surgery should proceed with caution. Additionally, smokers often experience compromised healing responses and are advised to quit smoking before undergoing any dental implant procedures. These factors are crucial to consider when determining the suitability of All-on-4 implants for individual dental patients.
