Dental implants are considered the highest standard in tooth replacement, but that doesn’t mean they are right for everyone. Some patients may be wary of the pain, the cost, or may even just be satisfied with the look of dentures. For these patients, revolutionary All-on-4® may be a great solution. All-on-4® uses as few as four strategically placed implants to more permanently secure a traditional denture.
For many patients, the cost is a major deciding factor that turns them away from dental implants. By using only four implants to replace an entire row of teeth, All-on-4® costs less overall than a mouth full of individually placed implants. Some patients may like the idea of dental implants but be ineligible due to bone loss. Because All-on-4® uses fewer implants that are smaller in size, it is available to patients that have already experience bone loss and have less bone to work with. Once placed the implants can even stop bone loss from progressing. Bone loss occurs when the roots of the teeth are no longer able to support the jaw bone. Dental implants replicate the roots and support the bone. Best of all, it is convenient: patients can wear a temporary denture during the recovery so you are not without teeth for an extended time.
As with typical dental implants, All-on-4® will require several appointments to complete. The first step is using dental imaging to assist in the planning of your procedure. Careful planning is required to properly place the implants so they are most effective. In order to maximize what bone is available, two implants will be placed at an angle for support without a bone graft. The actual implant procedure takes only a single day. Your dentist will place a temporary denture for function and esthetics during healing. After about three months of healing, a new denture fitting the healed dimensions of your gums is permanently placed, and you are ready to face the world without fear of slippage.
Do you have questions about All-on-4® or about upgrading your existing denture? Contact Bella Smiles on Long Island, NY and schedule a consultation to discuss your questions and concerns. Request an appointment with Dr. Sal Lotardo at Riverhead online or via the phone at (631) 574-3898, Dr. Diana Pop at Roslyn online or at (516) 217-6668, or Dr. John Caesar at Nesconset online or at (631) 228-8780.
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