All-on-4 Dental Implants for a Natural-Looking, Complete Smile

All-on-4 dental implants can support a full arch of teeth. This approach utilises four implants to secure all teeth in your upper or lower jaw. Dental implants provide a stable base for the artificial teeth, enhancing function and appearance. It is an effective option for those needing comprehensive dental restoration.

The All-on-4 dental implant treatment causes minimal pain. During the surgical procedure, patients may experience the following:

• Pressure: You will feel pressure as implants are inserted into the jawbone. This is necessary to securely anchor the implants, providing a stable foundation for the new teeth.
• Vibration: Using a dental drill to prepare the jawbone for implants produces a vibrating sensation. This occurs because drilling into bone transfers vibrations to the surrounding tissues.
• Mild discomfort: Local anaesthesia significantly reduces pain during the procedure. However, some discomfort may be felt as the anaesthesia wears off, a normal reaction to surgical procedures.

By recognising what to anticipate in terms of sensations during the All-on-4 implant treatment, patients can feel more at ease and prepared. Dental Gigi prioritises effective communication about these sensations to help reduce any anxiety related to the procedure, helping you feel supported every step of the way.

The All-on-4 dental implant surgery can take about 2–2.5 hours per arch. This time includes preparing the mouth for implants and the precise placement of four implants. The procedure is streamlined to allow for the immediate function of the new teeth. Patients can leave the clinic on the same surgery day with a fully functional set of temporary teeth.

Yes, All-on-4 dental implants look and feel like real teeth. They are designed to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. This similarity is achieved through custom-made prosthetic teeth mounted on stable dental implants. The implants provide a secure fit that enhances comfort and chewing ability.

Despite the significant benefits of All-on-4 dental implants, they have some limitations to consider. Here are the main cons associated with All-on-4 implants:

• Bone quality requirements: Patients with insufficient jawbone density may need bone grafts prior to implant placement. This adds complexity and increases the overall All-on-4 dental implant cost.
• Initial costs: The initial payment for All-on-4 implants is substantial, which may be discouraging for some compared to more affordable options like conventional dentures.
• Procedure complexity: The surgical nature of the procedure comes with risks such as infection or nerve damage, which may be concerning for patients.
• Irreversibility: Once placed, All-on-4 implants cannot be easily altered or detached, which may limit future changes if complications or changes in patient preference occur.
• Maintenance: They require diligent oral hygiene and frequent dental check-ups to maintain their health and function, demanding more effort than care for normal teeth or dentures.

Reviewing the potential drawbacks of the All-on-4 procedure will help patients understand the commitment involved. At Dental Gigi, we guide you through these considerations, helping to prepare you thoroughly for what to expect.

The All-on-4 dental implants’ failure rate is 3.11%. Here are the factors that contribute to implant failure:

• Excessive heating of the bone during drilling: This can damage the bone’s integrity, impairing implant stability.
• Over-preparation of the surgical site: Too much modification can weaken the bone structure, preventing proper implant integration.
• Low-density bone: Insufficient bone density may not offer the required support for implants, resulting in instability.
• Peri-implantitis: This infection around the implant site can occur post-surgery, risking the implant by resorbing the surrounding bone.

Failures in All-on-4 dental implants often arise due to factors like bone damage during surgery or issues like infection or gum disease. Identifying and addressing these risks can be effective in improving the All-on-4 dental implant lifespan.

Yes, All-on-4 implants can fall out in rare cases. This is usually due to the following causes:

• Poor osseointegration: If the implants do not fuse properly with the bone, they can become loose over time, leading to failure.
• Bone loss: Loss of bone around the implant site weakens its foundation, causing instability and eventually leading to the implant falling out.
• Peri-implantitis: This infection affects the gum and bone around the implant, resorbing the supporting bone and potentially causing the implant to detach.
• Excessive force or trauma: Excessive pressure from grinding or sudden impact can loosen the implants over time.

Addressing these causes early can greatly reduce the chances of implant failure. Dental Gigi prioritises patient care, including monitoring and maintenance, to minimise the risk of implants becoming loose or failing.

No, these implants are not removable by patients. These implants are securely attached to four titanium posts embedded in the jawbone. Unlike conventional dentures, they stay in place and function like normal teeth. Only a dentist can access and detach them when necessary, such as during professional cleanings or adjustments. This design provides stability and long-term function, offering patients a reliable replacement option for missing teeth that don’t require daily removal or special handling at home.

Cleaning under All-on-4 dental implants is essential to maintaining oral health. Here are the steps to follow for effective cleaning:

1. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush: Gently brush around the implants twice daily so all surfaces are cleaned, especially around the gumline.
2. Interdental brushes: Use a small brush specifically designed to clean between the implants and underneath the prosthetic bridge.
3. Water flosser: Use a water flosser to flush out debris and plaque from hard-to-reach areas under the implants.
4. Antibacterial mouthwash: Rinse daily with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce the risk of dental disease and keep the implants clean.

Maintaining a proper cleaning routine can help extend the All-on-4 dental implant lifespan. Regular professional cleanings with our dental team will also help protect the implants from plaque buildup and other issues.

The All-on-4 dental implant lifespan is at least 20 years. Factors such as maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding smoking, and following a healthy diet contribute to the longevity of the implants. Routine visits to your dentist are important for monitoring the condition of the implants and addressing any issues early. With consistent and proper care, All-on-4 implants provide long-term functionality and a reliable option for replacing missing teeth.

The All-on-4 dental implant cost ranges from $21,000 to $38,000 per fixed arch. This price depends on several factors, including the dedicated clinic’s location, the advanced material used for the prosthetic teeth, and the complexity of the case. Other considerations include any preparatory procedures, such as bone grafting, that may be necessary to support the implants. While this may seem costly upfront, many patients find the long-term benefits of All-on-4 dental implants, like improved function, appearance, and oral health, make the investment worthwhile.

No, health funds normally do not cover the full All-on-4 dental implant cost. Health funds usually provide limited cover for major dental procedures, such as implants, and often only cover a portion of related dental treatments like initial consultations or preliminary procedures.

Patients may still have to cover a significant portion of the cost themselves, depending on their level of cover. It is important to check with your specific health fund to see what portion, if any, they may contribute towards the procedure.