All-on-4 Implants

What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?

The All-on-4 dental implant system represents a revolutionary and efficient solution for individuals who are missing most or all of their teeth in an arch (upper or lower jaw). Instead of requiring a dental implant for each missing tooth, the All-on-4 technique uses just four strategically placed dental implants to support a full arch of custom-designed prosthetic teeth. These four implants, two placed vertically in the front and two angled in the back, create a strong and stable foundation. Unlike traditional removable dentures, the All-on-4 system often allows for the placement of temporary, fixed teeth on the same day as implant surgery, providing immediate function, stability, comfort, and the freedom to eat and speak with renewed confidence. It's a permanent, natural-looking alternative designed for full arch tooth replacement.

How Long Do All-on-4 Implants Last?

With diligent care and regular dental check-ups, the All-on-4 dental implants themselves are designed for long-term durability and can potentially last a lifetime. The titanium implants integrate directly with your jawbone, providing a stable and lasting foundation. The prosthetic teeth (the "bridge" that attaches to the implants) are also very durable but may require replacement or significant maintenance after about 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear. Adhering to good oral hygiene practices and attending your routine professional cleanings and examinations are crucial to maximizing the lifespan of your All-on-4 full arch implants.

Are All-on-4 Implants Better Than Traditional Dentures?

Absolutely, All-on-4 dental implants offer numerous significant advantages over traditional removable dentures, making them a superior long-term solution for full mouth restoration:

• Fixed and Stable: Unlike dentures that can slip, shift, or require messy adhesives, All-on-4 implants are permanently anchored in your jawbone, providing unparalleled stability.
• Enhanced Comfort & Chewing Ability: They feel and function much like natural teeth, allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods with greater comfort and chewing efficiency, including those often avoided with dentures. You won't experience sore spots or discomfort from a removable appliance rubbing against your gums.
• Preserves Jawbone Health: The implants stimulate your jawbone, preventing the bone loss and facial collapse that often occur with traditional dentures. This helps maintain your natural facial structure.
• Natural Appearance & Feel: All-on-4 provides a highly aesthetic and natural-looking smile, enhancing your appearance and boosting self-confidence. They don't cover the roof of your mouth, allowing for a more natural sense of taste and speech.
• Improved Speech: With no slipping, All-on-4 can significantly improve clarity of speech compared to dentures, which can sometimes affect pronunciation.

What Is the Recovery Time for All-on-4 Implants?

The initial recovery from All-on-4 implant surgery is typically relatively quick. Most patients report that any significant discomfort, swelling, and bruising subside within a week to 10 days. During this initial healing phase, a soft-food diet is highly recommended to protect the newly placed implants. Complete healing, where the implants fully fuse with the jawbone (a process called osseointegration), takes several months, typically 3 to 6 months. During this period, you'll wear your temporary fixed teeth. AICD provides personalized and detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal healing for your All-on-4 procedure.

Who is a Good Candidate for All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are an excellent option for many individuals facing significant tooth loss or struggling with uncomfortable traditional dentures. Ideal candidates typically include those who:

• Are missing most or all of their teeth in one or both arches.
• Have failing teeth that need to be extracted.
• Desire a permanent, stable alternative to removable dentures.
• May have experienced some jawbone loss, as the angled placement of the implants can often minimize or eliminate the need for bone grafting, making it suitable for patients who might not be candidates for conventional implants.
• Are in good general health and committed to maintaining good oral hygiene.

A comprehensive consultation with our implant dentist will determine if you are a suitable candidate for the All-on-4 treatment concept.

Is the All-on-4 Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the All-on-4 dental implant procedure is regarding pain. During the surgery, you will be under local anesthesia or sedation (such as IV sedation) to ensure you feel no pain or discomfort. Post-surgery, it's normal to experience some mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medication and over-the-counter pain relievers. Our team will provide detailed instructions for post-operative care, including pain management, to ensure your comfort throughout the healing process. Many patients report that the discomfort is less than anticipated and comparable to a tooth extraction.

What is the Cost of All-on-4 Dental Implants in New York City?

The cost of All-on-4 dental implants can vary significantly depending on individual factors, such as the complexity of your case, the materials used for your prosthetic arch (e.g., acrylic, zirconia), and any additional procedures required (though All-on-4 often reduces the need for extensive bone grafting). At AICD, we understand that All-on-4 is a significant investment in your long-term oral health and quality of life. During your initial consultation, we will provide a detailed and transparent breakdown of the costs involved, including the surgery, implants, and prosthetic teeth. We also offer various financing options and payment plans to make this life-changing procedure accessible. Please contact our Flatiron District office for a personalized consultation and estimate.

How Do I Care for My All-on-4 Dental Implants? (Maintenance)

Maintaining your All-on-4 dental implants is crucial for their longevity and your overall oral health, and it's similar to caring for natural teeth. Your daily routine should include:

• Brushing: Brush your prosthetic teeth and gums twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. Pay special attention to the area where the prosthetic bridge meets your gums.
• Flossing/Water Flosser: Utilize specialized dental floss (like super floss) or, highly recommended, a water flosser to clean thoroughly under the prosthetic bridge and around the implants. This removes food particles and plaque that a regular toothbrush might miss.
• Mouthwash: Rinse with an antimicrobial, non-alcoholic mouthwash daily to help reduce bacteria.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine professional cleanings and examinations at AICD (typically twice a year). Our hygienists use specialized tools to clean around your implants, and our dentists will monitor the health and stability of your implants and prosthetic.

Avoiding hard, sticky foods and habits like chewing on ice can also help preserve your All-on-4 full arch restoration.