For patients with significant or complete tooth loss, All-on-4 dental implants can be a life-changing treatment option. All-on-4 implants support a full upper or lower denture. Because the implant posts are permanently fixed in the jawbone, they are more stable and natural-looking than standard removable dentures.
Dr. Chris Tye of Texas Oral Surgery Specialists wants to make sure that you feel entirely comfortable before selecting and receiving a dental prosthetic. Along with his experienced team, he is always happy to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision about your care. Contact us today to learn more about All-on-4 and our other restorative options.
How long do All-on-4 dental implants last?
All-on-4 have a very high rate of success! A 2011 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association showed that after ten years, 94-95% of All-on-4 patients still enjoyed secure and fully functional dental implants. Furthermore, the prosthetics themselves were quite durable with a ten-year survival rate of over 99%.
With proper care, All-on-4 dental implants can last even longer. Many patients enjoy fully restored smiles for the rest of their lives with no need for additional treatment!
How do I maintain my implants?
Brushing and flossing are important for your implants, just as they are for your natural teeth. You will also need to floss underneath your denture, preferably after every meal. Using a water pick, electronic toothbrush, and mouthwash can further help to remove trapped food and bacteria.
If you have received dental implants, it is very important that you stop smoking. Patients who smoke have an increased risk of bone recession and a 57% higher risk of biological complications following All-on-4 placement.
Am I a candidate for All-on-4 dental implants?
All-on-4 implants are suitable for many patients who might not otherwise be candidates for traditional dental implants. The four implant posts are much smaller, and Dr. Tye places them at an angle, meaning less jawbone tissue is affected. Therefore, even if you have suffered from jawbone degeneration, you may be able to receive All-on-4 with no need for preparatory bone grafting.
Certain health conditions could affect your candidacy for All-on-4. Dr. Tye will discuss your complete medical history at your consultation.
How long does treatment take?
It will take several hours to place the implant posts themselves. If you are receiving All-on-4 on both your upper and lower dental arches, this will increase the time needed for surgery. Fortunately, we offer both general anesthesia and IV sedation, so you will remain relaxed and comfortable during this procedure.
One of the advantages of All-on-4 is that it allows for immediate dental function. Dr. Tye will attach a temporary denture on the same day as your surgery. You will have some sensitivity and swelling at first, but you will soon be able to eat and speak normally. When your jaw and gums have completely healed, usually four to six months later, you will receive your permanent denture.
What can I eat with All-on-4?
While you are recovering from implant surgery, you will need to eat a soft diet to prevent irritation to your gums. For several months, you may need to avoid certain hard-to-chew foods, such as apples, carrots, or steaks. These things could affect the integration process and keep the implants from fusing to the bone properly.
After you have fully healed, however, you can typically eat whatever you like with no dietary restrictions.
Contact Us to Learn More
Still have questions about All-on-4 dental implants? We’re here to help! Contact us today to speak to a member of our team or to schedule an appointment. You can reach us online or via phone at (817) 552-3223. At Texas Oral Surgery Specialists, we are proud to serve patients in Colleyville, Grapevine, Southlake, Fort Worth, and the surrounding communities.
