All-on-4 by Nobel Biocare in Northern Virginia

Overview of All-on-4 Implants

Whether you've lost teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma, All-on-4 dental implants, also known as All-on-4 dentures, are your permanent solution to tooth loss. The procedure consists of four implants attached to a dental appliance, which can be inserted into the upper or lower portion of your mouth. The implants restore the full function of your mouth and look just like your real teeth.

What Is the Cost of All-on-4 Implants?

Since there isn't a standard cost for All-on-4 implants, the amount each patient pays for the procedure can vary. In comparison to traditional implants and other replacement options, All-on-4 implants are more cost-effective because treatment requires fewer implants and the procedure is much less invasive. During your consultation, our dentists can provide you with an estimate of your All-on-4 dental implants cost. Financing plans and payment plans may also be available to help make treatment more affordable. Get in touch with us today to make your appointment.

All-on-4 Implants: How Do They Work?

To make sure you're comfortable during the procedure, you'll be placed under sedation prior to beginning treatment. All-on-4 implants function as an implant-supported denture, consisting of four implants that can be attached to a full bridge or denture. The implants can be placed in your lower jaw, upper jaw, or both. The first step of the procedure involves removing all of your remaining teeth. After they've been removed, the dentist places two small posts near the front of the mouth and two other posts into the back of your mouth. The posts at the back of the jaw are placed at a 45-degree angle, enabling them to reach deeper into the jawbone in comparison to regular implants.

The implant posts are made of titanium, a material that's compatible with bone, which fuses to your existing jawbone, helping to preserve bone density. This also helps you heal faster after the procedure. During the healing process, you'll receive a temporary set of teeth that are placed on top of the implants. After you've completely healed and the implants are securely attached to the jawbone, your permanent teeth will be attached to the implants. Some patients may be able to receive All-on-4 implants in only one dental appointment. Ask your All-on-4 dentist if you're a candidate for this procedure.

What Should I Know About All-on-4 Before and After?

The process for starting All-on-4 treatment begins during your consultation. During this appointment, you'll receive an examination of your mouth, a CT scan or x-ray of your mouth, and you’ll have a discussion with your dentist about your treatment plan. The scan or x-ray will provide your dentist with the current status of the health of your jawbone and identify any potential loss of bone. Once you've been cleared as a candidate for All-on-4 implants, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory that will manufacture your permanent teeth, which are designed to match the exact shape of your teeth.

After receiving All-on-4 implants, you'll be given aftercare instructions that will help in your healing and recovery. We recommend following a soft diet for the first few weeks. Patients should also not smoke during the healing process or engage in heavy exercise. It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene and brush and floss every day. Pain and swelling are normal after the implants have been placed, and your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe pain medication to help you feel comfortable.

How Do All-on-4 Implants and Traditional Implants Differ?

The need for bone grafts and the number of dental implants needed to complete the restoration are the two main differences between traditional dental implants and All-on-4 implants. With All-on-4 dental implants, your dentist can replace missing teeth with just four implants per dental arch; however, traditional dental implants may need as many as 10 dental implants per arch. For many patients who receive traditional dental implants, bone grafting surgery is typically needed to rebuild the amount of bone needed to support the implants. All-on-4 implants can be placed without requiring a bone graft, making it an ideal option for patients who have lost bone density in their jawbone.

How Do All-on-4 and Traditional Dentures Differ?

All-on-4 implants offer many benefits compared to traditional dentures. Dentures can cause an uncomfortable and oftentimes unstable fit because they rest on top of the gums. They must also be removed daily for proper cleaning, and they must be held in place with messy adhesives, both of which are time-consuming activities. You can brush and floss All-on-4 dentures just like your natural teeth, so they are very easy to maintain and keep clean. They can also help you maintain the shape of your face since they help preserve existing bone mass in your jawbone. Finally, All-on-4 implants are inserted securely into the jawbone, providing a secure fit and eliminating the worry and embarrassment associated with slipping dentures.

Where Can You Get All-on-4 Implants?

If you're considering improving the look of your smile with implants, you might be wondering, "Where can I receive All-on-4 dental implants near me?" At our dental office, our team of knowledgeable dentists has the experience and training necessary to help you achieve the beautiful smile you've always wanted. Schedule your consultation today.