Are you tired of living in fear of your dentures slipping around while eating and talking? Do you deal with gum and mouth irritation daily? Are you worried about facial sagging from a loss of jawbone density? If so, All-on-4® implant-retained dentures could be the solution for you! This innovative dental technology has changed the lives of many denture wearers by restoring function and health to their smiles.
How do you know if you’re a candidate for dental implants? Well, the best way to find out is to visit an oral surgeon who can evaluate your oral health. The next best thing is to continue reading to learn what the oral surgeon will look for.
First, what are All-on-Four implant-retained dentures?
They are the most effective tooth-replacement solution available. The dental implant itself is a small, screw-like rod that is inserted into the jawbone. This acts as your original tooth root. After insertion, the mouth needs between three and six months to heal. During this time, a process called osseointegration occurs. This is the natural process of integration between the jawbone and implant.
Once healing has completed, the oral surgeon places abutments on top of the implant and permanently secures the dentures to the abutments. No more worrying about your dentures coming loose or rubbing your gums!
From the initial consultation to the day a patient’s mouth is completely healed, the process may take up to 18 months.
Candidacy Requirements
Sadly, not everyone is a candidate for All-on-Four implant-supported dentures. Good candidates for All-on-4 implants should:
- Be in good overall health to undergo a successful surgical procedure
- Have healthy gums to reduce the risk of infection and avoid surgical risk
- Have sufficient jawbone density to support the dental implants
- Not be a smoker which increases the risk of dental implant failure by three times
- Not be on certain medications that may interfere with the healing process
Again, check with an oral surgeon to learn if you are a suitable candidate for implant-supported dentures. In some cases, dental implants are still an option even if you don’t meet all of the criteria.
For example, if you don’t have healthy gums, the oral surgeon can add periodontal treatment or surgery to your treatment plan. Also, if you don’t have enough jawbone density to support dental implants, bone graft surgery may be an option.
Benefits of All-on-Four Implant-Retained Dentures
Dental implants are so popular because (1) they have a 95 to 98 percent success rate and (2) they are the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth root as well as the crown. Here are a few more benefits that implant-supported dentures provide:
- Lifelike appearance
- Long-lasting
- Comfort
- Permanency
- Improved ability to chew and talk
- No dietary restrictions
- Ability to taste restored
- Jawbone regeneration
The benefits are endless! We love helping our patients experience a new and improved life with their All-on-4 implant-supported dentures.
Visit an Oral Surgeon Near You
While the process may seem long, patients and dental professionals agree that All-on-Four implants are the best solution for denture wearers. To start your journey towards restored oral health, schedule an initial consultation with an oral surgeon near you.
To meet with our exceptional and experienced oral surgeon in the Colleyville, TX area, call (817) 552-3223 today.
