All on 4
Rochester, NY
For patients with no teeth, the All-on-4®Treatment Concept is a secure means of affixing a complete arch of teeth that won’t slip or fall out. The All-on-4 is carried out by our specialists at Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester. We can help get your smile looking just the way you want.
What is an All-on-4?
Using just four dental implants, the All-on-4 is a treatment that affixes an arch of teeth to the implants securely and permanently. It can be used on the upper, lower, or both jaws.
How Does the All-on-4 Treatment Concept Work?
The procedure is sometimes known as teeth in a day. Unlike traditional dental implants where it can take three months or longer before a crown (the artificial tooth) can be attached to the implant to complete the procedure, the All-on-4 is carried out in one session. If the patient has any remaining teeth these can also be extracted at the same time.
The dental implants used in an All-on-4 treatment are placed two in the back of the jaw, and two in the front. While the front implants are placed at the same 90-degree angle that traditional, single implants are, the rear implants in the All-on-4 treatment are positioned at a 45-degree angle. They are also longer than traditional implants. These two differences create greater contact between implant and bone, providing greater stability and strength to support the immediate placement of the fixed bridge of teeth.
What is the Treatment Process for All-on-4?
The All-on-4 is a complex treatment, and even though the surgery is completed in a day it requires careful planning. We will go through your medical history with you, and take appropriate diagnostic tests, including x-rays and 3D/CT scans to assess the jawbone.
The All-on-4 Treatment Concept can often be used in patients who have bone loss that is not suitable for other implant procedures. However, there must still be enough bone available in the right areas, which will be confirmed with CT scans. The CT scans are used to identify the exact place in the jawbone for the most effective placement of the implants, and they are also used as a guide during surgery. You will also have impressions of your mouth taken, which are used to form a cast so that your new teeth can be tailor-made by a laboratory that specializes in prosthetic teeth.
After all of the preliminary tests have been carried out, an appointment is made for your treatment date when you will have the All-on-4 surgery. If you have not had extractions, your final tooth restorations are affixed that day, but you will receive a lighter, temporary restoration to allow for the gums to heal if you have had extractions. You will return to have your permanent restorations fitted after three months.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for the All-on-4?
If your overall health is good and you have sufficient bone available in the jaw, you are likely to be a good candidate for the All-on-4 Treatment Concept. However, you may not be considered for the procedure if you are a smoker as it is detrimental to the healing of the gum and bone tissues surrounding your implants, which may cause the implants to fail.
Schedule an appointment with us at Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester for further information about the All-on-4 Treatment Concept. You can contact us by phone at (585) 673-7702.
Additional Information:
Am I A Candidate For Dental Implants
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are groundbreaking devices revolutionizing tooth replacement. Crafted from biocompatible materials like titanium, they are surgically integrated into the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for various dental restorations. Advanced customization ensures implants blend seamlessly, mimicking natural teeth in color, texture, and appearance. The dental implant post acts as the missing tooth root. A connector called an abutment, is placed on top of the implant post after it fuses with your jawbone. The third and final piece of the dental implant is a crown, which goes atop the connector. This is the visible portion of your dental implant and resembles a tooth.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
While dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Pre-procedure evaluations are essential to mitigate risks and ensure successful outcomes. Crucial considerations include:
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Oral Health Assessment: Thorough evaluation of teeth, gums, and oral tissues is vital. Healthy gums and sufficient bone mass are prerequisites for implant success.
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Medical History Evaluation: Certain medical conditions or medications may affect healing and increase risks. Patients with specific health conditions may require careful consideration and consultation.
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Bone Density and Jaw Structure: Adequate bone density is necessary to support implants. Advanced imaging techniques assess bone structure and guide treatment.
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Pre-existing Dental Conditions: Conditions like teeth grinding or smoking may affect implant success. Managing these conditions before implant placement is crucial.
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Age Considerations: While age itself doesn't prevent candidacy, older adults may face unique risks. Proper evaluation and treatment planning can mitigate these risks.
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Lifestyle and Habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene may increase implant failure risk. Treating active gum disease is essential for candidacy. |
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants offer unparalleled stability and durability, closely resembling natural tooth roots to ensure long-term functionality. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, they maintain bone mass, facial structure, and oral health. Integration with existing teeth provides a natural look and feel, enhancing aesthetics and confidence.
The dental crown portion of the implant may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years. However, the rest of the dental implant - the post and connector, can last up to 25 years.
What is the dental implant procedure like?
Once cleared for implants, the procedure involves careful planning, surgical placement, and restoration attachment. Precise placement into the jawbone initiates osseointegration, where the implant fuses with surrounding bone tissue. After integration, a custom restoration is fixed to restore function and aesthetics.
Is dental implant surgery painful?
The implant surgery itself is not painful. You will receive anesthetic during your procedure so you will not feel anything. Post-operative care is crucial for successful healing and long-term stability. Medication and cold compresses manage discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding. Tailored instructions and follow-up appointments ensure a smooth recovery and optimal implant benefits. |
