All-on-4 vs Traditional Implants

With tooth restoration options like All-on-4® and traditional dental implants, those who have lost their natural teeth can now enjoy complete oral functions without making compromises. Dental implant restorations are highly stable and mimic the appearance of natural teeth. This article distinguishes between All-on-4 and traditional implants.

Overview of traditional implants

Traditional dental implants are provided through a process that requires at least two dental appointments. At the first procedure, the dentist will insert the implants (small titanium metal posts) into the jawbone via an incision made through the gums. After placing the implant, there is a healing period, during which the jaw fuses with the implant to create a solid artificial tooth root. The healing period may last from three to six months.

After healing, the dentist will perform another procedure to attach an abutment to the dental implant; this piece holds the final dental restoration in place. To be eligible for traditional dental implants, patients need to have adequate bone density to hold the implant and be in good dental health.

Overview of All-on-4®

The All-on-4 system uses a set of four dental implants to support partial or full permanent dentures. In contrast to traditional dental implants that need multiple appointments and a long healing period. It is possible to complete the All-on-4 implant procedure in one dental appointment, allowing patients to leave the dental office with a functional dental restoration. The implants are inserted into the jawbone at an angle to ensure maximum support.

Although All-on-4 implants have many advantages, not all patients are eligible for the procedure. The All-on-4 implant system is suitable for patients who currently have traditional dentures but want an option that is more stable and easier to maintain. Those who do not have the minimum bone density required for traditional implants can also get this option.

Here are some of the things that differentiate All-on-4 from traditional implants:

The number of implants: With All-on-4, only four dental implants are needed for dental restoration. Patients will need between four to eight single implants to achieve similar results.

Cost of treatment: The cost of treatment usually differs. With All-on-4, the cost is lower because fewer implants are required. Traditional dental implants often need more implants for mouth reconstruction, which can make the price higher.

Need for bone grafting: To place traditional implants, the bone has to be strong and dense enough to handle the stress of implants. This may mean augmenting the bone with artificial bone material – the bone grafting process often prolongs treatment duration. For All-on-4, the dentist will choose the bulky areas of the jaw to place the implants, so it is unlikely that patients will need bone grafting, except in a case of severe bone loss.

Shorter recovery time: Patients can expect to recover in about a week following the All-on-4 procedure. During this time, the dentist will provide recommendations for oral care and recovery.

Final note

Every tooth replacement option has its benefits and drawbacks. Before deciding on All-on-4 implants, seek the dentist’s opinion. The final decision will depend on treatment goals, oral health conditions and financial factors.

Request an appointment here: https://thechesterfielddentist.com or call Chesterfield Dentist at (804) 412-0867 for an appointment in our Chester office.

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