All-on-4® Modesto, CA
If you are missing multiple teeth and researching possible tooth-replacement options, you may want to consider the All-on-4® implant treatment. All-on-4 implants involve placing four titanium implants at key points in the lower or upper jaw to provide a sturdy base for a row of artificial teeth. This type of dental implant can provide the natural appearance of a full smile with artificial teeth that function like regular teeth.
The All-on-4 implant treatment is available at Great Smiles Dental in Modesto and the surrounding area. This treatment is a fantastic option for many patients who need to replace multiple teeth but do not want to use individual implants. Our team can help customize this treatment to your specific needs for the full smile you desire.
Call us today and schedule an appointment to learn more about the All-on-4 implant treatment.
Why Patients Should Consider All-on-4
Instead of waiting for several months to get false teeth attached to the implants, patients can get them attached the same day. The process takes a shorter amount of time because it does not require bone grafts or a large number of implants. The All-on-4 implant process gives the patient natural-looking teeth and helps them feel at ease chewing, speaking, and socializing.
When patients are missing only a few teeth, treatments such as partial dentures, bridges, or traditional implants may be a better fit. However, people who come to our office for All-on-4 implants either have no teeth, or their teeth are failing. Also, if a patient has certain health conditions, a bone graft may not be recommended and this treatment may be a safer choice.
“The All-on-4 implant process gives the patient natural-looking teeth and helps them feel at ease chewing, speaking, and socializing.”
Causes and Effects of Tooth Loss
According to WebMD, tooth loss is a common but not inevitable part of aging. Tooth loss can occur from an accident, such as a slip or fall that knocks out one or more teeth. Injuries such as hard blows to the face from playing sports or being involved in a vehicle accident could dislodge teeth as well. Over time, excessive decay or gum disease can compromise a tooth's structure and effectiveness. Teeth may wear down, fall out, or a dental professional may have to pull them.
Extreme tooth decay can cause severe pain and irritation. Aesthetically, a toothless smile can have emotional implications on a patient. Other effects of missing or damaged teeth include:
- Sensitivity to certain foods and beverages: When a patient has large cavities or failing teeth, it can be challenging to consume hot or cold food and drinks.
- Discomfort in the gum area: Patients who have no teeth may have trouble eating and speaking. Some may find wearing a complete set of dentures less comfortable.
- Social discomfort: Patients who are missing teeth may avoid smiling or even being out in social settings.
All of these effects can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Luckily, there are many tooth replacement options. Our team can help patients determine if All-on-4 is the right solution for them.
“According to WebMD, tooth loss is a common but not inevitable part of aging.”
How the All-on-4 Implant Treatment Works
Replacing the top or bottom arch of teeth with standard dental implants would require an implant for each tooth. Alternatively, All-on-4 uses just four implants to replace the top or bottom row of teeth. The treatment works even if the patient has no teeth at all. As explained in this article by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the four implants support the entire arch of replacement teeth. Also, this treatment does not require bone grafting. The implants will fuse with the existing bone and become part of the jaw. Because some of the implants are set at an angle, they are longer and offer more support.
All-on-4 implant treatment is similar to getting regular implants. However, the procedure and recovery time is faster. First, the doctor will take impressions and X-rays and send those to a lab. At a subsequent appointment, our staff will use a local anesthetic to numb the patient and may have to remove any remaining damaged teeth. Then, the dental professional will insert screws into four places in the upper and lower jaw. These titanium anchors will help support the artificial teeth throughout the mouth.
“All-on-4 implant treatment is similar to getting regular implants. However, the procedure and recovery time is faster.”
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After the Procedure
Our team will send you home with specific aftercare instructions that you should follow exactly for proper healing and prevention of infection. Instructions commonly include brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush, sleeping with your head elevated and eating only soft foods. Immediately following the procedure you may be sore, have swelling and light bleeding. As always, call our office immediately if these symptoms get worse rather than subside.
Patients should maintain proper care of the implants and their oral health. Just as with natural teeth, patients need to continue brushing and flossing daily. Regular dental checkups are essential. A dentist should routinely examine the implants and artificial teeth to ensure that everything looks the way it should.
“Patients should maintain proper care of the implants and their oral health. Just as with natural teeth, patients need to continue brushing and flossing daily.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Who is a good candidate for All-on-4?
Q. What is involved in the All-on-4 implant treatment?
Q. What should you do after the procedure?
Q. What is the process for getting these implants?
People Also Ask
Q. Who is a good candidate for all teeth replacement?
Q. What happens during the dental implant process?
Q. What are the differences between implant supported dentures and removable dentures?
The Process of Getting All-on-4
On the day of the oral surgery, we will prep the patient. The patient will be asleep during the procedure, and the type of sedation we use will vary per patient. We will go over these options during the consultation. Once the patient is asleep, we will remove any teeth or gum tissue that we need to.
Our dentist will place two implants at the back of the jaw, with one on either side; the other two implants will be placed near the front of the jaw so all four can evenly support the new teeth. After the surgery, our dentist will place the teeth over the implants. The entire procedure takes about one to two and a half hours. After completing the procedure, we will wait for the patient to wake up and ensure that everything is functioning correctly.
“After completing the procedure, we will wait for the patient to wake up and ensure that everything is functioning correctly.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Am I a suitable candidate for All-on-4?
A. The ideal candidate for the All-on-4 implant is someone who has already lost all or most of their teeth. Someone who has dentures may be the right fit for the All-on-4 implant. Other factors to consider can include age, oral health, and the state of the patient's teeth.
Q. Will I have speech issues with All-on-4?
A. As mentioned earlier, some people experience speech issues after the All-on-4 procedure. This may be due to teeth that are too high or bulky, inadequate positioning of the anterior teeth, or air going through the prosthesis. We will do everything necessary to minimize these risks.
Q. Does age affect my tooth replacement options?
A. Dental implants are effective and long-lasting for both younger and older patients. Though patients of all ages may choose between dentures and dental implants, dental implants prevent bone loss and gum irritation.
Q. How long can an All-on-4 procedure take?
A. On average, an All-on-4 surgery takes about four hours per arch. Once the implants are healed, it can take four to five dental appointments to make a final dental bridge.
Q. How long should I wait to eat after the first surgery?
A. You can begin drinking liquids immediately following the surgery. However, you should try to limit yourself to only cool drinks for the first 48 hours. Only drink hot drinks after all numbness has subsided and any bleeding has stopped. You will need to stick to a liquid diet for the first two weeks following the surgery.
Q. How often do I see a dentist after replacing my teeth?
A. You should still see a dentist twice a year for your bi-annual checkups. However, some patients may need to be seen more frequently than others. We can help determine what is best for you.
Denture Terminology
It is Your Turn
If you are missing teeth, consider All-on-4 implant surgery. Call us today at (209) 222-3636 to discuss your oral health needs. Join other patients in Modesto and rediscover your smile and ability to eat the foods you love. You may also finally feel good about your overall appearance.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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