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what is the process of all-on-4 dental implants

October 17, 2024

Are you thinking about getting All-on-4 dental implants and wondering, "What is the process of All-on-4 dental implants?" Knowing the steps involved will help you feel prepared and confident as you begin your journey to a new smile. All-on-4 is a modern solution that uses just four implants to support an entire arch of teeth. It offers a quicker and more efficient alternative to traditional implants, with benefits such as reduced healing time and fewer surgeries.

In this blog, we'll guide you through every stage of the process—from consultation to final restoration—so you will know what to expect at each step.

Steps Involved In The Process Of All-on-4 Dental Implants

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment

So, "What is the process of All-on-4 dental implants?" It begins with a detailed consultation and assessment. This phase ensures the treatment is right for you and sets the foundation for a successful outcome.

Comprehensive Oral Examination

During the consultation, the dentist performs a thorough oral exam to evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. It helps identify any existing issues, such as gum disease or decayed teeth, that may need attention before moving forward with the implants.

Diagnostic Imaging (X-rays or CT Scans)

To assess your jawbone and determine the optimal placement for the implants, your dentist will take X-rays or CT scans. These images provide detailed insights into bone structure, density, and nerve locations, ensuring precise planning for the implant procedure.

Discussion of Treatment Plan and Expectations

After gathering all the necessary information, the dentist will create a customized treatment plan. This includes discussing the entire All-on-4 process, the timeline, the costs involved, and any necessary pre-treatment procedures, like tooth extractions or bone grafting. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and understand what to expect at each step of the process.

Step 2: Tooth Extraction and Bone Preparation (if Needed)

The next step involved in the process of All-on-4 dental implants is preparing your mouth for implant placement. This may include removing damaged teeth and ensuring the jawbone is strong enough to support the implants.

Removal of Damaged or Decayed Teeth

If you have any teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or beyond repair, they will need to be extracted before the All-on-4 implants can be placed. The dentist will perform the extractions to minimize discomfort and prepare the area for the implants.

Bone Grafting, if Necessary

In some situations, the jawbone may not have enough density or strength to hold the implants securely. When this happens, bone grafting is recommended to rebuild and reinforce the bone. However, not everyone requires bone grafting, as the All-on-4 technique is designed to work even in cases of moderate bone loss.

Step 3: Implant Placement Procedure

This step ensures that the implants are positioned correctly to support your new teeth.

Overview of the Surgical Process

During the surgery, the dentist places four titanium implants into your jawbone. These implants act as the base for your replacement teeth. The entire procedure takes a few hours, with a focus on precise placement to ensure a strong and lasting result.

Placement of Four Implants in Strategic Positions

Two implants are placed in the front of the jaw, where the bone is usually strongest. The other two are placed at an angle in the back of the jaw, which provides extra stability. This method helps avoid more complicated procedures like bone grafting in many cases.

Use of Local Anesthesia or Sedation

To keep you comfortable, the dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia. If you feel nervous or prefer to be more relaxed, sedation options are also available to make the procedure easier for you.

Step 4: Temporary Restoration Placement

The placement of temporary dentures right after the surgery is an important part of the process of All-on-4 dental implants.

Fitting of Temporary Dentures Immediately After Surgery

Once the implants are placed, the dentist will attach a set of temporary dentures on the same day. These dentures are designed to fit securely on the implants to give you a functional smile right away while the implants heal and bond with your jawbone.

Importance of Temporary Restoration for Healing and Function

The temporary dentures allow you to eat soft foods and speak comfortably while your mouth heals. They also protect the implants during the healing period and help you get used to your new smile.

Step 5: Healing and Osseointegration Process

A key part of the process of All-on-4 dental implants is the healing and osseointegration phase, where the implants fuse with the jawbone to provide a strong foundation for your permanent teeth.

Bone Fusion with Implants (3-6 Months)

After the surgery, your jawbone fuses with the titanium implants in a process called osseointegration. This bonding takes between 3 to 6 months. The implants become a part of the bone and create a secure base that can support your new teeth for many years.

Care Tips During the Healing Phase

  • Stick to soft foods to avoid disturbing the implants.
  • Gently brush around the implants to keep the area clean.
  • Attend regular check-ups to monitor your progress.
  • Avoid smoking or excessive consumption of alcohol, as these can slow down healing.

Step 6: Final Restoration Placement

The step marks the completion of your treatment, and the result is a durable and natural-looking smile.

Replacement of Temporary Dentures with Permanent Ones

Once the implants have fused with the jawbone (after 3-6 months of healing), your dentist will remove the temporary dentures and attach the permanent prosthetic. The new teeth are securely anchored to the implants, providing better function and aesthetics.

Customization of the Final Prosthetic for Comfort and Appearance

The permanent restoration is carefully customized to match the shape, size, and color of a person's natural teeth to ensure they fit comfortably and look natural. During this process, your dentist will make adjustments if required to achieve the right bite and alignment.

Takeaway

The process of All-on-4 dental implants include several phases and each phase ensure that your new smile is not only functional but also comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Are you ready to explore the All-on-4 dental implant process further? At Sunflower Dental Spa, we are here to guide you through every step. Book your consultation today! Current patients can call us at (321) 507-4408, while new patients can reach us at (321) 358-1730. You can also visit us at Sunflower Dental Spa, Rockledge, FL.

FAQs On All-on-4 Dental Implant Process

 

How long does it take for all 4 implants to heal?

The healing time for All-on-4 implants ranges from 3 to 6 months.

Is the All-on-4 procedure painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the implant procedure because of local anesthesia and sedation options.

How long do All-on-4 implants last?

All-on-4 implants can last 10 years or more, and many patients enjoy them for a lifetime.

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Valerie P
12:46 17 Apr 25
Seriously the most kind, caring, thorough dentist I have ever been to. Dr. Wetmore was kind and attentive to my anxiety while at the same time making sure I was comfortable through a long drilling for a crown and very thorough making sure I was numb enough and the bite would be just right. I struggle with self care and this is the first dentist in my life where I wasn't shamed for it. And even though I was scared for the procedure I felt so safe here. Awesome place! The front desk staff, hygienist I saw and assistants were all super skilled and amazing too. Thanks ladies!
just lee
16:49 05 Mar 25
Very friendly and helpful. I already recommended them to my co workers.
Sherry Riley
14:39 21 Feb 25
Absolutely wonderful and patient staff and doctors who cater to cowards like me, can't wait to get all work complete to have my smile back. My husband and I both were throughly impressed with this office for our first time visit
Arleen Lally
16:01 19 Feb 25
Dr. Whitmore and her staff are amazing, gentle, kind caring people. My son did very well during his procedure today. Thank you so very much!
Malette Fraleigh
18:56 16 Feb 25
Sunflower Dental Spa is for me the FIRST Dental Office that I enjoy going to. I walk in and I am greeted by, 3 Wonderful Ladies with Beautiful Smiles. And even though they know that I can never remember their names, they know mine.
Rachel, my Dental Hygienist, took me back to begin my cleaning... Well at my last cleaning, I misunderstood something that she told me... so this time I asked her to please show me... and she did.
Once Rachel finished, she went and told my Wonderful and Most Excellent Dentist, Dr. Justin Lieneck that it was his turn to come in and check out my teeth. As Justin is checking out my teeth, I asked him, "Do the look okay? You are taking an awfully long time..."
Justin said, "I'm checking each one of them...but I don't see cavities." That isn't exactly what he said, but I can't remember word for word, like I used too.
But if you are looking for a place to go that will take care of your Teeth.... I Highly recommend Sunflower Dental Spa 🌻
Excellent team and dental care .
Very nice and informative .
Doctor Justin and Diane are awesome.
Chris F
17:37 29 Jan 25
The entire staff adds value to this practice. There’s a good energy there, with both the doctors and all of the medical assistants & the front office. And most importantly they do great work. I am happy to have found Sunflower Dental Spa.
Erika Burge
22:18 27 Jan 25
Sunflower Dental Spa is the best office in town, hands down! The front desk staff is so welcoming and kind. They’re great at explaining out of pocket expenses vs. dental insurance. They do their best to squeeze you in at any given notice. You could be having the worst day and those ladies sure do know how to put a smile on your face!
Zac Vickers
16:58 19 Dec 24
It’s hard to put my appreciation into words. Dr. Wetmore and her staff were so helpful and welcoming. They were able to work with my insurance and I to go from consultation to surgery in less than a month, and for half the price I was quoted from Aspen. I was very nervous going into the surgery and amount of extractions I needed but was put at ease with all of the commendations they offered. I highly recommended the laughing gas for anyone that feels the same way. The entire surgery was painless, completely painless and took about two hours. It’s now one day post op and other than some soreness I have never felt better. Sunflower dental deserves all the praise they get in these reviews. Truly an amazing experience. I am so grateful.

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