All-on-4® Can Replace Multiple Missing Teeth

If you need dental implants, All-on-4® is an excellent option to help you replace missing teeth. We will review what they are, how they differ from previous iterations of implants, and how they work to help you decide if they are a suitable option for you.

What are dental implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are needed when you have missing teeth or so decayed and damaged that they must be replaced. Essentially, metal rods will be inserted into the bones in your mouth; then, artificial teeth will be added to those rods. The rods are usually made from titanium, as your body won’t reject it, it’s very durable, and it will even bind to the bones over time.

All-on-4 is a specific kind of dental implant that uses four metal rods to replace an entire dental arch. If you need all your top or bottom teeth replaced, then this may be the option for you. On average, this will cost around $20,000 and is much cheaper than putting in individual implants for every tooth.

Who is this option for?

Anyone missing all or most of their teeth is a candidate. If your teeth are very decayed, then this could be the option to replace them. If you use dentures but want a more permanent solution in your mouth, you might also want to consider it.

Some people are not good candidates, as well. If you have issues with bone density or gum disease, it may not be an option for you. If you have undergone radiation within five years or have untreated diabetes, you may not be a good candidate. Lastly, it is not advisable if you are a heavy smoker.

How the All-on-4 procedure works

As this is an extensive surgical process, it will require multiple visits to your dentist. The first visit is a consultation at which X-rays, and impressions will be taken. These will help the dentist to understand the location of nerves in your jaw, as well as its thickness. Your dentist will also go over your general medical history to ensure this is the best option for you.

In your next visit, the dentist will extract any teeth that must be removed. Since this process replaces an entire dental arch, any remaining teeth will be in the way and must be taken out. Occasionally, bone grafts may also be required to thicken the jawbones.

Once your mouth has healed from the extractions, the All-on-4 implants can be inserted. Under anesthesia, the holes will be drilled into your jawbone; then the metal rods will be put into them. It may take up to six months for this to properly heal before the next stage can begin. Temporary dentures are an option for this period.

Lastly, abutment structures will be added to the rods; then artificial teeth will be attached. It’s a long process that may even take over a year, but you will have a completely new and beautiful smile!

Request an appointment here: https://www.millarfamilydentistry.com or call Millar Family Dentistry at (817) 885-5214 for an appointment in our Weatherford office.

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