One of the most exciting things about dentistry today is the wave of new technology and techniques that are making professional dental services and surgeries more efficient, comfortable, and successful. Although the range of services we offer is extensive, the procedure that is generating the most excitement among dental experts and consumers alike is All-on-4 – also known as “Tooth Replacement in a Day.” This procedure replaces all of the teeth in a single arch, or both arches, of teeth, with a custom-fabricated fixed denture. By anchoring this to your jaw with four dental implants, this becomes a long-term solution with many advantages over traditional, removable dentures.
It may sound too good to be true, but our team is on the forefront of this procedure — highly trained, experienced, and ready to show you just how far the industry has evolved. Keep reading for more information about this most exciting new development.
What the All-on-4 process entails
In the past, patients who needed full-mouth reconstructions had limited options: a full set of dental implants or a removable denture being the most common. Implants, while an excellent, long-term option, require significant healing time, multiple dental appointments, and cost. A removable denture, while inexpensive, greatly reduces ability to chew, is often uncomfortable, needs to be relined or replaced periodically, and can be a difficult adjustment for patients. Because of the gap between these options, many people would avoid dental treatment altogether, which led to escalated problems and longer delays. It was a vicious cycle.
Thankfully, now there is an option which offers the natural look and stability of implants, with reduced healing time and at a fraction of the cost. The concept is fairly simple – a high-quality fixed denture anchored on four implants. After an initial consultation and CT scan to precisely map the configuration of the bone, we use dental computer aided design (CAD) to fabricate a custom denture for a natural look and exact fit. On the day of surgery, teeth are extracted, implants placed, and a temporary denture fastened in place. The patient is able to return to normal activity and will regain the ability to eat all of their favorite foods. In a few months, the provisional fixed denture is replaced with a stronger, definitive prosthesis. Think of it as getting a new set of teeth, in one day.
While the concept is simple, the procedure requires a high skill level to ensure that the implants are precisely placed so as to withstand the day-to-day load of chewing. With over 25 years of experience in placing implants, along with an in-house lab and state-of-the-art technology to fabricate the prostheses, we have all of the components in place to ensure success for our patients. Without exception, they love their new smiles.
Contact us today for a consultation about All-on-4 or any of our other services. You’ll be glad you did!