Dental implants are one of the most sought-after solution for patients with missing teeth. Dental implants give patients a sense of security knowing that their dental health is improved, their teeth are more stable, and their jawbone is strengthened.
By thoroughly examining your teeth and jawbone, your oral surgeon can decide which type of dental implant will benefit you most.
Before we discuss the difference between regular dental implants and All-on-4® implants, here are the benefits that all dental implants provide when compared to dentures and dental bridges:
- Improved speech
- Improved appearance
- Improved comfort
- Easier chewing
- Higher self-esteem
- Better oral health
- Durability
- Convenience
Continue reading to learn more about the difference between All-on-4 and traditional dental implants.
All-on-4®
For patients with multiple missing teeth, traditional implants are a great option, but they certainly aren’t the best option. All-on-4 dental implants may be a more conservative and effective way to improve their smile and oral health.
All-on-4 implants offer a stronger, more secure, and attractive smile than ever before. To qualify for this procedure, you must be in good health—free from autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and other diseases that may impact the healing process.
This option is also better for those who have significant jawbone deterioration.
During the procedure, your oral surgeon will carefully and strategically place four dental implants into your upper or lower jaw. A temporary dental bridge or dentures can be placed on the same day so you can leave with a functioning smile. In the meantime, your custom restoration will be created at a dental lab. Once your gums and jaw have healed from the surgery, your permanent restoration can be placed.
This process typically takes four to six months.
Additional Benefits
All-on-4 dental implants provide the following benefits:
- Shorter surgery: Operation time is shortened to only one appointment because your oral surgeon will only place four dental implants for your bridge or denture to be secured to. With traditional dental implants, he or she would place one implant for every missing tooth.
- Quicker recovery time: Fewer implants simply means less recovery time. The All-on-4 dental implant process may also help you avoid bone grafting and sinus augmentation because of the smaller size of the implants and the way the implants are placed.
- Less risk: Replacing all of your upper or lower teeth puts you at a lower risk of losing any more teeth or developing an infection because of gum disease or tooth decay.
- Lower cost: A one-time appointment and less implants will require less spending on your part.
When considering All-on-4 dental implants, keep in mind that this solution isn’t suitable for everyone. If you’re only missing a couple of teeth and are in good oral health, traditional dental implants may be right for you.
Traditional Dental Implants
Traditional dental implants are a great option for patients who are only missing a couple of teeth and aren’t at risk of losing more. With traditional dental implants, each restoration requires a post to be implanted into the jaw bone.
This post helps your new tooth perform much like your natural tooth structure by acting as the tooth root, which keeps your jawbone from deteriorating and restoration from loosening.
If you have fewer than than four missing teeth on your upper or lower arch, and you aren’t at risk for losing more, traditional dental implants are likely the right option for you.
Contact Your Oral Surgeon Today
Both types of dental implants have a success rate of 98%. Your oral surgeon can help you choose the dental implant option that is right for you.
Schedule an initial consultation with your oral surgeon today.
