Advances in dental technology have developed many new ways to replace teeth. All-on-4 dental implants are a procedure that offers a unique approach to restoring your smile. Horizon Family Dental Care will provide you with All-on-Four in Baltimore, MD, which combines the strength of dental implants and the aesthetics of a fixed prosthesis.
What is All-on-Four?
The All-on-4 method replaces a row teeth with four dental implants unlike traditional procedures that use 6-10 implants. The four implants are strategically placed to maximize your available bone structure. This method reduces the need for complex procedures and bone grafting.
The Creative Placement of All-on-4 Implants
The All-on-4 technique involves strategically placing implants in the jawbone. Your dentist will position two implants vertically at the front of the mouth while angling the other two towards the back of the mouth. Placing the implants this way will take advantage of your available bone density. We will use longer implant screws, which increases the amount of implant to bone contact. The result is a restoration that is more stable and stronger.
The bone towards the front of the jaw is thicker and denser. If we place the dental implants in that area, you will not need a bone graft to build the bone back up. This makes the treatment easier. It also helps patients qualify for dental implants who did not previously because they lacked bone density.
Benefits of Choosing All-on-Four in Baltimore, MD
The All-on-4 dental implant solution offers many advantages. This option is the best choice if you want a fixed solution for missing teeth that will last:
- Affordability: All-on-4 is more affordable than traditional implant treatments. This is because the dentist uses more implants to support the denture. The all-on-4 approach is usually more cost-effective since it only uses four implants.
- Minimized Need for Bone Grafting: Since this option uses denser bone at the front of the jaw, the All-on-4 method eliminates the need for a bone graft. This will help with the overall comfort and convenience of replacing your teeth.
- Faster Treatment Timeline: We can usually complete the All-on-Four process faster. This treatment method does not require a bone graft, and we use fewer implants, which increases healing time. You will be able to enjoy a new, functional smile in a shorter timeframe.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: The All-on-4 prosthesis is easier to access for cleaning. You can better maintain your oral hygiene and reduce the risk of problems we often see with poor maintenance.
- Enhanced Bite Strength and Stability: Your replacement teeth will increase your bite strength and stability. The strategic placement of the implants and using a fixed denture will help strengthen your bite. You are able to eat a broader range of food for better overall nutrition.
- The Best Option for Various Conditions: All-on-4 dental implants are a great option for people with certain medical conditions. If you have diabetes or osteoporosis, you may not have qualified for dental implants in the past. However, you can qualify for this unique implant method.
The All-on-4 Dental Implant Process
Choosing the All-on-Four method will help you regain your oral health. This procedure involves several steps to ensure a seamless and successful outcome. This is what you should expect during the All-on-4 process:
Consultation and Evaluation
The first step in the All-on-4 process is a consultation with your dentist. This step will help determine if you are eligible for this procedure. Your dentist will discuss what to expect during your treatment.
Diagnostics and Treatment Planning
If you qualify for All-on-4 dental implants, the next step involves gathering diagnostic information. This may include digital dental X-rays, cone beam CT scans, dental impressions, and digital photographs. These images will help place the implants and create your treatment plan.
Implant Surgery and Temporary Denture
The next step involves the surgical placement of your implants. Our dental team use special tools and techniques to guide the placement of the implants. Our offices use TeethXpress®, an implant-supported denture system.
After your implants are in place, we will provide you with a temporary set of teeth, known as a provisional prosthesis. Your dentist will secure it directly to the dental implants.
Healing and Osseointegration
After your surgery, it will take about three to six months for the implants to fuse to the bone. This fusion between implants and bone creates a strong and stable foundation for your permanent denture.
Final Prosthesis Placement
Once the healing process is complete and your implants have integrated with your jawbone, it’s time to place your permanent denture. We will custom design a set of replacement teeth to match your bite to ensure proper function and appearance. Once we secure your new false teeth, you can expect your new smile to last for many years with proper care.