The ‘All-on-4′ is a dental implant treatment option for those with completely missing teeth. The implants can be placed either in an immediate fashion on the same day as extractions (Teeth-in-a-Day) or in delayed fashion once the extractions sites have healed (Delayed implant placement). The ‘All-on-4′ refers to placement of the entire prosthesis (i.e. teeth) on 4 dental implants. The prosthesis can be either removable or fixed.
The ‘All-on-4′ treatment is a great solution for patients who have lost significant bone in the back of their jaw and where bone grafting is not desired. The dental Implants are positioned in a way that does not require bone grafting while providing great support for the prosthesis. The ‘All-on-4′ technique can be done in both upper and lower jaws.
Patients with teeth that require extraction:
A common scenario is a patient who needs all of their teeth extracted due to severe decay or gum disease. Here is how it works:
- Teeth are extracted
- Four immediate dental implants are placed on the same day. This is known as immediate implants.
- An immediate full denture is then placed and supported by the four implants on the same day. This is known as immediate restoration.
- The implants are allowed to heal for 2-3 months before fabrication of the final implant-supported prosthesis.
- The implant-supported prosthesis is fixed to the implants with retaining screws and can not be removed by the patient.
Patients with all of their teeth missing:
If you have already had your teeth extracted, you can also have a removable or fixed prosthesis on 4 dental implants. This is how it works.
- A CT scan is done to measure your existing jaw bone
- A special guide is made from CT scan to help place the implants with precision
- The implants are placed
- Immediate full denture is placed and supported by the four implants on the same day
- The implants are allowed to heal for 2-3 months before fabrication of the final implant-supported prosthesis.
- The implant-supported prosthesis is fixed to the implants with retaining screws and can not be removed by the patient.
‘All-on-5′ or ‘All-on-6′:
Four implants are the minimum number of implants for this approach. However, it may be recommended to place 5 or 6 dental implants for additional support. More implants may be recommended for those with a large biting surface or strong chewing habits. The additional implants provide greater stability, strength, and support for the prosthesis. If you love eating harder food, the additional implants will be of great benefit to you.
How is ‘All-on-4′ treatment done?
- The treatment is coordinated between Dr. Kazemi and your restorative dentist.
- All diagnostic work-up including consultations, study models, X-rays, and CT scan (if necessary) are completed before your surgery.
- On your day of surgery, Dr. Kazemi will perform all necessary extractions and will place the dental implants. We offer IV sedation, so you can be absolutely comfortable during the procedure.
- Your restorative dentist, lab technicians and assistants will also be present in our office. They will fabricate your temporary implant-supported teeth which will be inserted on the same day.