All-on-4 dental implants, also known as “teeth in a day” or “same-day implants,” are a dental treatment option for patients who are missing multiple teeth or have significant tooth loss. This technique allows for the placement of a full arch of prosthetic teeth supported by only four dental implants.
Here’s an overview of the All-on-4 dental implant procedure:
Evaluation and Treatment Planning:
A thorough examination of the patient's oral health is conducted, including X-rays, scans, and impressions. The dentist evaluates bone density and the condition of the remaining teeth and gums.
Treatment Plan Design:
Using the collected information, a treatment plan is customized to meet the patient's specific needs. The position, angle, and number of implants required are determined during this stage.
Implant Placement:
The surgical phase begins with the placement of four dental implants in the jawbone. The implants are strategically positioned to maximize contact with the available bone and ensure stability. In some cases, additional procedures like bone grafting may be performed to enhance bone volume.
Temporary Prosthesis Attachment:
Following the implant placement, a temporary prosthesis is attached to the implants on the same day. This immediate restoration allows the patient to leave the dental office with a set of functional teeth.
Healing Period:
Over the next few months, the dental implants integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. During this healing phase, the patient should follow specific instructions provided by the dentist regarding oral hygiene and diet.
Final Prosthesis Placement:
After the healing period, the temporary prosthesis is replaced with a final, custom-designed, and permanent set of prosthetic teeth. The final restoration is fabricated to provide optimal aesthetics and function.
Advantages of All-on-4 Dental Implants:
- Immediate Results: The patient can leave the dental office with a new set of teeth on the same day as implant placement.
- Fewer Implants: All-on-4 utilizes only four implants per arch, reducing the need for extensive surgery and potentially avoiding bone grafting procedures.
- Improved Aesthetics and Function: The final prosthesis provides natural-looking teeth that restore both appearance and oral functionality, such as biting and chewing.
- Bone Preservation: The dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving the facial structure.
Each patient’s case is unique, and not everyone is a suitable candidate for All-on-4 dental implants. A thorough evaluation by a qualified dental professional is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
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