With All-on-4, four dental implant posts are all you need to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. This procedure comes with many key advantages that can make it an excellent option for reclaiming a complete smile. That said, it does come with a number of downsides as well. Before you commit to All-on-4, it’s worth learning more about the treatment and the various pros and cons associated with it.
How Does All-on-4 Work?
All-on-4 involves surgically placing four dental implant posts in your jaw. Each post will be inserted in a precisely chosen spot at a specific angle; this is done to take full advantage of the areas of the jaw where the bone is thickest. The posts will help anchor a full denture in place, thereby recompleting your smile.
Pros of All-on-4
All-on-4 comes with several advantages that make it well worth considering:
- High Success Rate: Around 94% of All-on-4 cases remain successful even 10 years after the initial placement.
- No Diet Restrictions: Patients with traditional dentures often need to exercise caution around certain foods. In contrast, once the All-on-4 process is complete, you’ll be able to eat virtually anything you want.
- Easy Maintenance: With All-on-4, the prosthesis remains in your mouth at all times, meaning you can brush and floss it as if it were a natural part of your smile.
- Less Bone Density Needed: Compared to other dental implant procedures, All-on-4 doesn’t require as much bone density due to the way the implant posts are placed. As a result, choosing All-on-4 can potentially eliminate the need for bone grafting.
- Boosted Confidence: Your All-on-4 prosthesis will be designed to look as natural as possible, and it will not slip the way traditional dentures sometimes do. This can help you feel more confident when eating, speaking, and smiling.
Cons of All-on-4
All-on-4 does have a few drawbacks that are worth keeping in mind:
- Cost: All-on-4 can be more costly than other forms of tooth replacement, though this can be balanced out by its longevity.
- Post-Surgical Tenderness: After your All-on-4 surgery, your gums may be somewhat tender. This is a temporary symptom that should fade on its own as your mouth heals.
- Risk of Failure: It’s rare for All-on-4 implants to fail, but nevertheless, it is a possibility you should keep in mind. Fortunately, your periodontist can give you tips for keeping the chances of implant failure as low as possible.
All-on-4 is a highly reliable tooth replacement option that comes with many unique benefits, but it’s not for everyone. If you schedule an appointment with your periodontist, they can help you figure out whether you’re a viable candidate for All-on-4.
About the Author
Dr. Mark T. Litterer is a dedicated periodontist with many years of experience. He studied dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina and completed the University of Kentucky’s periodontics program. At Georgia Periodontics, he has been able to help many patients enjoy complete smiles again thanks to All-on-4 and other dental implant procedures. If you think All-on-4 may be a good fit for you, feel free to schedule an appointment with Dr. Litterer at his practice in Dunwoody by visiting his website or calling (770) 457-6558.