All-on-4 dental implants are the new buzzword in the dental world. If you are reading this, you must be aware that these are the latest innovations used by dentists to restore missing teeth. Often tagged as ‘end of article’ procedures, they are now becoming increasingly common as people begin to understand their benefits. Many who have seen their friends and family members go through varying degrees of stress because of their dental issues have started asking their providers about them. Here we will see what exactly All-on-4 dental implants are and how they can help you lead a happier, healthier life with your smile intact!
What do all-on-4 dental implants mean?
All-on-4 dental implants are the latest innovations in dentistry that enable you to have your missing teeth replaced permanently. They are designed to hold a bridge or a denture in place for people who cannot afford expensive implants and cannot maintain the conventional removable options due to medical reasons or other reasons. The name “All-on-4” refers to the number of implants inserted into the jawbone under the gums. The first All-on-4 dental implants were placed in the 1990s, and since then there have been several new designs to improve the effectiveness of these implants.
How are all-on-4 implants performed?
The entire procedure is performed in two stages. In the first stage, two implants are inserted in the upper gum and two in the lower gum. In the second stage, the implants are loaded with an acrylic bridge, which is the connector between your natural teeth and the implants. You will be required to wear a retainer for about six months after this, and then implants can be safely removed.
This is mainly because the implanted teeth have to be strongly bonded to your natural teeth to prevent any movement. On the other hand, most people who have had All-on-4 dental implants have been very secretive about the procedure. This is mainly because the entire procedure is done on an outpatient basis and is totally painless. The implants are placed under the gums, and there is little chance of nerves being affected.
The advantages of all-on-4 implants
Long-lasting: The biggest advantage of All-on-4 dental implants is that they last a lifetime. Once the implant has been placed. It is permanent and can be removed only if there is gum disease or decay. They are also more cost-effective than other options such as bridges, which have to be replaced every few years.
Healthier gums: Another advantage of All-on-4 dental implants is that they provide great support to the gum while attached to the teeth. This helps to prevent gums from getting infected and therefore, the risk of gum disease is reduced. –
Better appearance: People who have All-on-4 dental implants also report a better appearance of their teeth as compared to people with a bridge. This is mainly because the bridge also covers the gums and teeth, which makes them look yellowish.
Better oral hygiene: People with All-on-4 dental implants are also able to maintain good oral hygiene as compared to people with a bridge or denture. This is mainly because the acrylic bridge does not cover the gums. Which means that you can clean your teeth properly.
Limitations of all-on-4 dental implants
High cost: The biggest drawback of All-on-4 dental implants is their high cost. This is because the entire procedure is done on an outpatient basis. Which means that they don’t really incur any cost.
Risk of gum disease: As stated above, the acrylic bridge covers the gums, preventing them from getting infected. However, it also prevents the gums from getting the proper blood flow. Which means that they are more likely to get infected.
Risk of losing the teeth: Another drawback of All-on-4 dental implants is that they are likely to make your natural teeth weak and prone to fracture. This is mainly because they provide support only to the implants and not the natural teeth.
No aesthetic appeal: Another disadvantage of All-on-4 dental implants is that they don’t look as nice as the traditional options such as dentures or bridges. This is mainly because the acrylic bridge covers the entire gum, making it look thicker.
The lower number of teeth. One of the disadvantages of All-on-4 dental implants is that they are less likely to provide support for a full arch of teeth. This means that you will have a lower number of teeth compared to the conventional options.
Is it right for you?
People who have lost teeth due to accidents or other reasons have been benefitting from dentures, bridges, and implants for many years now. Now that All-on-4 dental implants are available. It is important to understand the procedure and its advantages and disadvantages before deciding to go for a full set of teeth once again. These are for people who are not willing to compromise on their dental health and appearance. If you have a full arch of missing teeth. It would be better to go for a full set of teeth once again. However, if you have only a few missing teeth. It would be better to go for All-on-4 dental implants as they are less expensive and more convenient.
Conclusion
All-on-4 dental implants are the latest innovations in dentistry that enable you to have your missing teeth replaced permanently. They are designed to hold a bridge or a denture in place for people who cannot afford expensive implants and cannot maintain the conventional removable options due to medical reasons or other reasons. The name “All-on-4” refers to the number of implants inserted into the jawbone under the gums. The entire procedure is performed in two stages.
