It is no secret that dental implants have become the gold standard teeth replacement option. Versatile in their use, dental implants can support crowns, bridges, and even dentures. For patients missing most or all of their natural teeth, dental implants offer a number of solutions that were not available just a few decades ago.
Today, our Missouri City, TX dental team explores two of the most common full-arch teeth replacement options: All-on-4 vs. traditional dental implants. Read on to learn which option is right for your dental needs.
Full-arch Teeth Replacement with Traditional Dental Implants
Those who are long-term denture wearers can attest to the multiple challenges that accompany this type of appliance. Traditional dentures enhance the appearance of the smile, but when it comes to restoring chewing function or oral health, they fall short.
One of the primary complaints among those who wear conventional dentures is that they slip and wobble when eating or speaking.
To address this issue, many dentists recommend implant-supported dentures. These prostheses can be attached to traditional dental implants, providing optimal support.
As a result, implant-supported dentures stay in place and do not shift, slip, or wobble. Millions of patients have enjoyed the benefits of this treatment.
Candidacy for Traditional Dental Implants
To qualify for standard dental implants, patients should have adequate bone tissue in the jaw. To be successful long-term, implants must be completed encased in dense, healthy bone.
Patients considering this treatment should also understand the importance of ongoing routine dental maintenance with regular exams and cleanings.
Timeline for Traditional Dental Implants
Traditional dental implants rely on osseointegration for stability. This process occurs when the bone tissue fuses to the surface of the implant.
Typically, osseointegration takes about three to six months to complete. As a result, patients who choose standard dental implants will need a few months of healing before their denture can be connected.
Full-arch Teeth Replacement with All-on-4
As the name suggests, All-on-4 involves replacing an entire arch of teeth using only four implants. To perform this treatment, the implants are placed in the jaw, two vertical posts near the front and two angled posts near the back.
Because of this strategic positioning, most patients can even receive a fixed prosthesis on the same day. This non-removable option provides natural-looking results and an appliance that will not shift around during routine tasks.
Candidacy for All-on-4
All-on-4 treatment is designed to maximize existing jawbone. As a result, many individuals who previously did not qualify for implant treatment can restore their smiles with All-on-4.
Since All-on-4 provides a fixed restoration, it can only be removed by the dentist. Therefore, patients must be committed to cleaning underneath their prosthesis to prevent issues like infection.
Treatment Timeline for All-on-4
Unlike traditional dental implants, All-on-4 implants do not require several months of healing. As a result, patients who choose this option can receive their implants and a set of teeth on the same day.
Many patients prefer All-on-4 because treatment is faster compared to that of conventional implants. Additionally, because this option only requires four implants per arch, it is generally less expensive compared to alternative treatments.
Contact Fort Bend Dental Today
When you are missing teeth, it can have a significant negative impact on your quality of life. Restore your smile and your confidence with an implant-supported restoration. To find out which option will meet your needs, schedule a visit by calling us at (281) 499-3541 or (281) 336-9971.
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