Tooth loss brings with it a lot of complications. Not only one’s smile and facial aesthetics are affected, but also the ability to eat and speak properly. That is why dentists recommend that missing teeth be replaced as soon as possible. If you have lost all your teeth and you’re looking for the most durable, reliable, and natural-looking tooth replacement option, you should consider getting all-on-4 implant-supported prostheses. If you want to know more about all-on-4 implants, this article is for you. So, read on to find everything you need to know about the all-on-4 implant procedure.
What Are All-On-4 Teeth Implants In Dentistry?
All-on-4 refers to a tooth replacement approach used to replace all missing teeth in a jaw using dental implants. According to the American Academy of Implantology, all-on-4 refers to an option in which upper and lower teeth are replaced with a complete fixed bridge supported by only four implants placed at strategic locations in the lower or upper arch. Unlike the removable full denture, the all-on-4 complete bridge remains fixed to the traditional implants and restores your ability to eat and speak normally.
Are All-On-4 Dental Implants The Best Option?
If you look at the options available for replacing all missing teeth, there are only two options: removable complete dentures and all-on-4 implant-supported prostheses. Unfortunately, many people are satisfied with their dentures as they get stained frequently, require frequent repair or replacement and, more importantly, fail to provide sufficient chewing force. On the other hand, implant-supported full sets of teeth are the next best natural teeth. So, if you’re looking for the best option for replacing teeth in a full arch, all-on-4 is the best option.
How Painful Is The Dental Implant Procedure?
Like other dental procedures, inserting the implants in the jaws is a surgical procedure. However, this does not mean that you will experience pain during the process. This is because your dentist will provide you with sufficient anaesthesia to make you pain-free and comfortable. Generally, implant insertion is performed under the effect of local anaesthesia. However, dentists sometimes perform the procedure under conscious sedation or general anaesthesia for extremely frightened or uncooperative patients.
Is It Possible To Do Dental Implants On Every Tooth?
It would seem that one implant is required for replacing every missing tooth. However, that is not the case; you don’t need an implant for each missing tooth. If you have lost all your teeth in a jaw, your dentist will replace all the teeth with a complete fixed bridge using up to four or six implants. Typically, two implants are placed in the front while two are placed in the middle of the jaw – one on either side. This is another benefit of the all-on-4 prostheses. You don’t have to pay enormous amounts for getting one implant for each missing tooth. Instead, you need only 4 or 6 implants in each jaw to get all your teeth replaced.
Are Dental Implants A Permanent Solution For Tooth Loss?
One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is that they are strong and durable. According to the American Dental Association, dental implants can last for a lifetime if they are looked after properly. So, yes, implant-supported prostheses are a lifetime solution. You may need to get your prosthesis replaced after 10-15 years, but implants will remain there for life. On the other hand, removable dentures have a limited lifespan and hardly last ten years.
How Do The Teeth Looks After Dental Implant Procedure?
Your new, implant-supported teeth will look, function, and feel just like your natural teeth. This is because dental implants are anchored into the jawbone, just like natural teeth. As a result, they offer the same natural aesthetics and dental function as natural teeth.
Will I Be In Pain During Or After Getting A Dental Implant?
While getting your implants, your dentist will administer anaesthesia to make you free of pain. Therefore, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. However, it is not uncommon to experience some swelling, pain, and discomfort around the surgical site for the next few days or weeks after the surgery. This pain does not indicate something serious; instead, it shows that healing occurs around the surgical site. Typically, dentists give pain medication to relieve this pain. You may also apply ice packs to subside the swelling and inflammation.
Are You Put To Sleep For Dental Implants?
Usually, implant patients are not put to sleep during implant surgeries. However, conscious sedation or general anaesthesia is sometimes considered for extremely frightened or uncooperative patients.
How Long Does It Take For Dental Implants?
Tooth replacement with dental implants is generally carried out in multiple steps. During the first step, your dentist will prepare a treatment plan and insert the implants and then wait for 4-6 months for the surgical site to heal. Afterwards, once the implants have become fully anchored within the jawbone, they will attach a suitable prosthesis over them to replace the missing teeth. The entire process can take anywhere between 6-8 months. However, it may also be possible to get your implant-supported teeth in a day in some cases.
Successful tooth replacement with all-on-4 implants requires careful planning, attention to detail, and excellent dental surgical skills. Unfortunately, not all dentists are trained and experienced in performing this procedure. But, if you are living in Didcot, Oxford or in surrounding areas, The Oxford Smile Clinics can help you get a beautiful, lasting, and healthy smile with all-on-4 implants. We take pride in having a team of highly experienced and qualified dentists and state-of-the-art equipment to perform this procedure. So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment with us today and begin your journey towards your dream smile.