All-on-4 Dental Implants San Antonio
Streamlined Tooth Replacement
Dental implants replace the roots of lost teeth, so you might wonder if you need an implant for each individual missing tooth. You do not! In fact, a full arch of missing teeth can be replaced with as few as four dental implants. This streamlined treatment, known as All-on-4 dental implants, is both efficient and effective. Would you like to learn more about it? Continue reading below, or get in touch with our friendly San Antonio dental team to request a consultation. Dr. Sanchez and our team look forward to serving you!
How Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Work?
All-on-4 implants are sometimes called Teeth in a Day because during a single appointment, we may be able to extract your remaining teeth, place your dental implants, and provide a provisional denture. You could literally arrive in our office with extensive tooth loss and leave with a full smile!
One thing that makes All-on-4 treatment unique is that the implants are inserted at very strategic locations in the jawbone. Two go toward the front, and two are placed toward the back at an angle. This precise placement utilizes areas of the bone that are naturally strong and thick, which means that a bone graft is not usually necessary with All-on-4.
Am I a Candidate for All-on-4 Dental Implants?
You might be a good candidate for All-on-4 in San Antonio if:
- You are missing all or most of your teeth throughout one of your dental arches.
- Your jawbone is healthy enough to support dental implants.
- You are free of active gum disease and other oral infections.
- You are well enough to undergo minor surgery.
- You have good habits that will minimize your risk of dental implant failure.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for All-on-4, visit us for a consultation. Most adults with extensive tooth loss can qualify for this procedure, either immediately or after some preparatory restorative services.
Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 dental implants offer some amazing benefits:
- You can enjoy a strong bite force that is able to stand up to virtually any food, including those that are off-limits with traditional dentures.
- An All-on-4 denture is permanently fixed in your mouth, so you can care for it almost as if it were your natural teeth.
- Because dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots, they can stimulate the jawbone and help to keep it healthy and whole.
- All-on-4 dentures can look and feel very natural and comfortable.
All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dental Implants
There are a few key differences between All-on-4 treatment and traditional dental implants:
- Timeline: All-on-4 is usually faster than traditional implant procedures.
- Number of implants. While All-on-4 uses just four implants, replacing a full arch of teeth with traditional methods may require 6 – 8.
- Number of surgeries: All-on-4 typically requires one surgery, while traditional implants may require two or more.
- Strength: Because traditional implants may use more posts, they might be a bit stronger than All-on-4.
- Versatility: Traditional implants can replace any number of missing teeth, whereas All-on-4 is exclusively for full-arch replacement.
All-on-4 FAQs
How Long Does All-on-4 Take?
The main portion of the All-on-4 dental implant procedure typically takes one day to complete. You will come to our practice, and we will place the implants and fit a temporary denture in just one appointment.
However, just because All-on-4 is sometimes called Teeth in a Day does not mean there is nothing more to the process. From your consultation to the time your temporary denture is replaced with a permanent prosthetic, it may take several months.
Does the All-on-4 Procedure Hurt?
One of our primary goals is to ensure your comfort during the All-on-4 procedure. We administer local anesthesia to prevent pain during the implant placement surgery. We are also qualified to offer sedation so you can stay relaxed throughout your procedure.
After the procedure, as the anesthesia and sedation wear off, you may experience mild discomfort, which is manageable with the help of pain medications and other provisions. Most patients describe the sensation as similar to that of a standard dental extraction. If you experience severe pain or other unusual symptoms during your recovery, you should reach out to us right away.
How Can I Take Good Care of My All-on-4 Denture?
Maintaining the health of your All-on-4 denture involves regular cleaning and care. We recommend brushing your denture twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. You should also clean under your restoration and around your implants, possibly using a water flosser or other convenient tools.
It is essential to schedule routine visits to our practice for professional cleanings and check-ups. During these visits, we will examine your denture and implants so we can address any developing problems before they become severe. We can also provide detailed, personalized coaching to help you take great care of your smile.
How Much Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of All-on-4 dental implants depends on individual factors, including the condition of your oral health, the materials used, and more. Our San Antonio team will provide a personalized consultation to evaluate your needs and offer a detailed breakdown of expenses. Financing options are available to assist you in managing the cost effectively. We are committed to transparency and will work with you to develop a plan that aligns with your budget without compromising the quality of the care you receive.
Does All-on-4 Treatment Have Any Downsides or Risks?
While the All-on-4 procedure is highly effective, it is important to consider potential risks. Some patients may experience minor swelling or discomfort after the surgery, which typically resolves during the healing process. Rare complications, such as implant failure or infection, may occur but can generally be avoided through proper care and professional monitoring. We can discuss these risks in detail during your consultation and provide strategies to reduce them. By following our instructions and regularly visiting our team, you will increase the likelihood of a successful and problem-free treatment experience.