All-on-4 Dental Implants in Turlock, CA
With All-on-4, you can get a new arch in one day–and there’s no bone grafting.
Transform Your Smile with All-on-4 Dental Implants
Are you tired of struggling with traditional dentures or living with missing teeth? If so, All-on-4 dental implants may be the implant dentistry solution you’ve been searching for. This innovative procedure offers a permanent, stable, and aesthetically pleasing way to restore your smile and improve your quality of life.
At Eggleston Dental Care in Turlock, CA, we are dedicated to helping you discover the benefits of this advanced dental solution. Turlock implant dentist, Dr. Jim Eggleston explains All-on-4 dental implants and how they can change your life for the better. You can also learn more by calling our Stanislaus County dental practice, at (209) 226-4963 for new patients or (209) 634-5871 for current patients.
What Is All-on-4?
The All-on-4 technique is an innovative prosthodontic procedure that provides a permanent, screw-retained replacement for a full arch of missing teeth. It utilizes four precisely angled dental implants to maximize available jaw bone structure and provide optimal support for a full arch of prosthetic teeth.
Two implants are placed vertically in the anterior (front) of the jaw, while two are angled up to 45 degrees in the posterior (back) region. This strategic placement takes advantage of the dense bone in the front part of the jaws and often eliminates the need for extensive bone grafting.
The angled posterior implants enhance bone-to-implant contact and provide optimized support even with minimum bone volume. This approach allows for immediate function, typically enabling patients to receive a fixed full-arch prosthesis within 24 hours of surgery.
How All-on-4 Works
- Four titanium dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. Two dental implants are positioned vertically in the front of the jaw, while two are angled in the back to maximize contact with existing bone.
- The dental implants are positioned for optimal stability using computer-guided technology. This precise dental implant placement allows for immediate function in most cases.
- A temporary set of teeth is attached to the dental implants on the same day as surgery, giving patients a functional smile right away.
- After a healing period of four to six months, the temporary teeth are replaced with a permanent, custom-made prosthesis.
Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 implants offer several advantages over traditional dentures and other tooth replacement options:
Increased Functionality
- Thanks to the dental implants used with All-on-4, patients can eat and speak more naturally, with up to 90 percent of the chewing efficiency of natural teeth.
- The dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth or traditional dentures.
- Just like with traditional dental implants, there’s no risk of slippage or movement, unlike with removable dentures.
Enhanced Aesthetics
- Just like with traditional dental implants, the fixed prosthesis attached to the dental implants looks and feels like natural teeth.
- With the All-on-4 dental implant technique, patients can smile with confidence, knowing their teeth are secure and natural-looking.
- The All-on-4 dental implant procedure can help maintain facial structure, preventing the sunken appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Convenience and Comfort
- The prosthesis is permanently fixed, eliminating the need for messy adhesives or nightly removal.
- Patients can brush and care for their new teeth much like natural teeth.
- There’s no palate coverage, allowing for better taste sensation and more comfortable eating.
Time and Cost Efficiency
- The procedure can often be completed in a single day, with the immediate function of the new teeth.
- Fewer dental implants are needed compared to traditional methods, potentially reducing overall costs.
- With All on 4, the need for bone grafting is often eliminated, further reducing treatment time and expense.
Treatment Process and Recovery
The All-on-4 procedure typically follows these steps:
- Initial Consultation: Dr. Eggleston will perform a comprehensive examination, including 3D imaging, to assess your suitability for the procedure. This involves taking X-rays and possibly a CT scan to evaluate your bone density and jaw structure.
- Treatment Planning: Using advanced computer software, your implant dentist will plan the precise placement of the dental implants and design your new teeth. This step includes creating a surgical guide for accurate implant placement.
- Surgery Day: The dental implants are placed, and temporary teeth are attached on the same day. This involves removing any remaining teeth, placing four implants in strategic positions, and attaching a temporary prosthesis.
- Recovery Period: Much like with traditional dental implants, over the next four to six months, the dental implants will integrate with your jawbone. During this time, you’ll follow a graduated diet plan and special oral hygiene instructions. You’ll need to eat soft foods and avoid putting pressure on the dental implants during this healing phase.
- Final Prosthesis Placement: Once healing is complete, your permanent, custom-made teeth will be attached to the dental implants. This involves removing the temporary prosthesis and attaching the final, custom-made teeth to the dental implants.
All-on-4 Long-Term Care and Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your All-on-4 dental implants, a comprehensive care routine is essential. Here’s a detailed guide on how to maintain your implants:
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brush at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush designed for implant care.
- Use a non-abrasive, low-abrasive toothpaste specifically formulated for dental implants to avoid scratching the implant surfaces.
- Floss carefully after every meal using specialized floss or floss threaders designed for All-on-4 implants.
- Consider using a water flosser or oral irrigator with a specialized tip for implant bridges to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Brush your tongue and clean inside your cheeks to maintain overall oral freshness.
Professional Care
- Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings every three to six months.
- During these visits, your dentist will perform thorough examinations, take X-rays to ensure implant stability and provide professional cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar buildup.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can negatively impact implant health and longevity.
- Be cautious with hard foods that could potentially damage your prosthetic teeth.
- If you grind your teeth, consider using a night guard to protect your implants.
Additional Care Tips
- Use an antimicrobial, alcohol-free mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and maintain gum health.
- Be mindful of your diet, avoiding excessive sugar and maintaining good nutrition to support overall oral health.
- If you notice any discomfort, looseness, or changes in your implants, contact your dentist immediately.
By following these detailed care instructions and maintaining regular communication with your dental care provider, you can help ensure the long-term success and comfort of your All-on-4 dental implants.
Candidacy for All-on-4
While All-on-4 is suitable for many patients, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine candidacy. Factors considered include:
Overall Health and Ability to Undergo Surgery
- Your general health condition will be assessed to ensure you can safely undergo the procedure.
- Any medical conditions that might affect healing or implant success will be evaluated.
- Your ability to tolerate anesthesia and the surgical process will be considered.
Bone Density and Volume in the Jaw
- Adequate jawbone structure is crucial for implant support.
- All-on-4 can often utilize available bone without the need for grafting.
- 3D imaging may be used to assess bone quality and plan implant placement.
Presence of Gum Disease or Other Oral Health Issues
- Any existing gum disease must be treated before implant placement.
- Other oral health problems will need to be addressed to ensure a healthy foundation.
- Your overall oral hygiene habits will be evaluated.
Smoking Habits and Other Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking can negatively impact implant success and healing.
- Excessive alcohol consumption may affect bone health and implant integration.
- Your commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene will be assessed.
Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed medical history review, physical examination, and possibly imaging tests. They will then discuss whether the All-on-4 dental implant technique is the best option for your specific needs, considering all these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is the All-on-4 procedure?
Most patients report that the All-on-4 procedure is less painful than they expected, with discomfort typically manageable using prescribed pain medications. The surgical procedure is performed under anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel pain during the treatment. Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days after the procedure, which can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long do All-on-4 dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, All-on-4 dental implants can last decades, potentially a lifetime for the implant posts themselves. The prosthetic teeth (the visible part of the restoration) typically need replacement every 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and following your dentist’s care instructions are crucial for maximizing the longevity of your All-on-4 implants.
Am I too old for All-on-4 dental implants?
Age is not a primary disqualifying factor for All-on-4 dental implants; overall health and bone density are more important considerations. Many patients in their 70s and 80s successfully receive All-on-4 implants and enjoy significant improvements in their quality of life. Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive health assessment to determine your suitability for the procedure, regardless of your age.
How much do All-on-4 dental implants cost?
The cost of All-on-4 dental implants varies depending on individual patient needs, geographic location, and specific treatment plan requirements. While the initial investment is higher than traditional dentures, All-on-4 implants are often more cost-effective in the long term due to reduced maintenance and replacement costs. Many dental offices offer financing options and payment plans to help make this transformative treatment more accessible.