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All-on-4® Implant Restorations

For patients with full arches of missing or damaged teeth, All-on-4® implant-supported dentures—also called All-on-6, All-on-X, and teeth in a day—can be an effective option to restore form and function to upper and/or lower dental arches. While traditional dentures have been a common treatment for replacing teeth, they are often found lacking in terms of convenience, stability, comfort, and longevity. At Harmony Dental Care, our experienced team of Ridgeland dentists offer the All-on-4® system to help patients speak, chew, and smile with confidence after tooth loss.

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What Are All-on-4® Implant Restorations?

All-on-X implant restorations are designed to replace a full arch of missing teeth by inserting a few titanium posts (dental implants) into a healthy jawbone to securely attach a custom-made overdenture. The titanium posts act as the roots of the missing teeth and anchor the denture firmly in place while also stimulating the underlying jaw tissues, preventing bone loss. All-on-4® is named for the conventional four implant method, but some patients may require more or less posts for a secure, durable fit.

For patients that have experienced jaw density loss, bone grafting may be able to rehabilitate the jaw enough to support an All-on-X restoration. This technique may be used on the upper and/or lower dental arches and as part of a full-mouth reconstruction.

Am I a Candidate for All-on-4® Dental Implants?

When it comes to choosing a restorative dental option for missing teeth, there are several factors that can help decide if implant-supported dentures are the right solution, such as if you:

  • Have numerous missing, damaged, or failing teeth on one or both dental arches
  • Have adequate amounts of jawbone density/volume to support the implants
  • Are looking for a long-lasting, stable option for tooth replacement
  • Are willing to treat existing gum disease or other dental issues prior to implant placement
  • Are a non-smoker or willing to refrain from smoking for the duration of the treatment and healing process 

During a consultation at Harmony Dental Care, we will carefully evaluate your dental needs, perform a thorough exam, and discuss your goals to determine if you are an ideal candidate for implant dentures. 

What Does the All-on-4® Procedure Involve?

Before placing the All-on-4® system, it is imperative for long-term dental and general health to treat any existing gum disease or oral health concerns, as these can increase the risk of infection, implant failure, and other concerns. Some of the most common dental work to be completed beforehand includes deep dental cleanings, tooth extractions, and bone grafting (in cases of inadequate jawbone density).

Once the mouth is fully prepared, each of the titanium posts will be surgically implanted in precise locations within the jawbone. Depending on the unique needs of the individual, most patients receive between four and six implant posts in the upper and/or lower arches. Generally, two implants are placed at the front of the mouth and two are angled at the back; however, the exact placement will be customized for each patient to obtain the strongest and most effective result. After implantation, it will take several months for the titanium posts to completely fuse to the jawbone—a process called osseointegration. While the fusion is taking place, a temporary set of teeth are worn until they may be replaced by the custom-made prosthesis that is then anchored to the implants to finalize the restoration.

Dr. Abide partners with a skilled implant dentist to ensure your treatment is performed with optimal safety, comfort, and efficiency in mind. He will help plan out the precise implant placement and design your custom denture prosthetic, ensuring your results are durable while offering a natural look and feel.

What Can I Expect During All-on-4® Recovery?

It is normal for patients to experience some degree of swelling, bruising, and soreness for several days after the dental implant placement procedure. That said, any discomfort during implantation recovery is typically well-managed with over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medications taken as directed by your provider. It is generally recommended that patients adhere to a soft-food diet for at least the first week to allow for optimal healing and to prevent unnecessary pressure on the healing implant posts.

Once the initial healing phase is over (usually within 1-2 weeks), the osseointegration phase begins, during which the implant posts fuse securely with the jawbone over the course of several months. In most cases, patients will receive a temporary overdenture to wear so that they do not have to go without teeth. Most patients report feeling relatively back to normal at this point and can go about their daily routines without restriction. Once osseointegration is complete, the permanent overdenture is secured in place, completing treatment.

To learn if All-on-X dental implant restorations are right for you, please contact Harmony Dental Care to schedule your appointment today.