All-On-X and Implant Supported Dentures
What Are All-on-4 Implant Retained Dentures?
All-on-4 Implant Retained Dentures is a cutting-edge dental procedure designed to provide patients with a full-arch fixed prosthesis supported by just four dental implants. This solution is ideal for individuals suffering from significant tooth loss or decay, or those who have experienced jawbone deterioration but want a more permanent and comfortable alternative to traditional dentures. At Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa, OK, we specialize in offering All-on-4 dental implants to help restore both function and aesthetics for our patients.
How Does the All-on-4 Procedure Work?
The All-on-4 procedure involves surgically placing four titanium implants into the jawbone. Two implants are positioned at a vertical angle in the front, while the two at the back are placed at a 45-degree angle. This technique maximizes the use of available bone, often eliminating the need for bone grafting. After the implants are placed, a temporary fixed denture is attached, and once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, a permanent, custom-made denture is fitted.
Who Is a Good Candidate for All-on-4?
Ideal candidates for All-on-4 dental implants include those who have lost most or all of their teeth and seek a stable alternative to traditional dentures. This solution is also beneficial for patients with some level of bone loss, making them ineligible for standard implants without bone grafting. Consult with our expert oral surgeon in Tulsa to determine if All-on-4 is the right solution for you.
What Are the Benefits of All-on-4 Compared to Traditional Dentures?
- Improved Stability and Comfort: Unlike traditional dentures, All-on-4 dentures are anchored to dental implants, providing a secure and stable fit.
- Bone Preservation: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: The prosthetic teeth look natural, improving the appearance of your smile and overall facial symmetry.
- No Dietary Restrictions: With stable implants, you can enjoy a wider variety of foods without worrying about denture movement.
- Convenience: All-on-4 dentures are fixed in place and do not need to be removed for cleaning, offering a more convenient solution.
What Does the Surgical Process Involve?
The All-on-4 dental implant procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation and Planning: Using advanced imaging techniques, we assess your oral structure to plan implant placement.
- Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia or sedation, four implants are surgically placed in the jaw.
- Temporary Denture: A temporary fixed denture is attached immediately, allowing for instant functionality.
- Healing Period: Over the next few months, the implants integrate with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
- Permanent Denture: Once healed, a custom-made permanent denture is fitted to the implants.
How Long Do All-on-4 Implants Last?
With proper care and maintenance, All-on-4 dental implants can last for decades. While the implants themselves are designed to be permanent, the prosthetic teeth may require adjustments or replacements over time due to normal wear.
Are there any risks or considerations?
Post-operative discomfort is generally manageable with prescribed pain medication. Swelling and bruising may occur but typically subside within a few days. Patients are advised to follow a soft diet initially and gradually return to normal eating as healing progresses. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are crucial for the longevity of the implants and prosthesis.
How long do All-on-4 implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, All-on-4 implants can last many years, often decades. The prosthetic teeth may require replacement or adjustment over time due to normal wear.
What Are Implant Overdentures?
Implant overdentures are a type of denture supported by dental implants, providing a more stable and secure solution compared to traditional dentures. This procedure involves anchoring the dentures to the jawbone using dental implants, offering improved comfort, functionality, and aesthetics.
How Do Implant Overdentures Differ From Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place, often leading to discomfort or instability. Implant overdentures, on the other hand, are attached to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a more stable, secure fit and enhanced functionality.
How Are Implant Overdentures Placed?
The placement of implant overdentures typically involves two stages:
- Implant Placement: Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation.
- Attachment of Denture: After a healing period, during which the implants fuse with the bone, a custom-made denture is attached using specialized connectors.
Are Implant Overdentures a Permanent Solution?
Yes, implant overdentures are considered a long-term solution for missing teeth. With proper care and regular maintenance, they can last for many years, though the denture itself may require occasional adjustments or replacement due to wear.
What Are the Benefits of Implant Overdentures?
- Improved Stability: Implant overdentures provide a secure fit, eliminating the slipping or shifting often associated with traditional dentures.
- Enhanced Chewing Ability: With better stability, patients can enjoy a more varied diet.
- Preservation of Jawbone: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further bone loss.
- Comfort and Aesthetics: Implant overdentures are more comfortable than traditional dentures and provide a more natural appearance.
- Better Speech: Patients experience clearer speech due to the stability of the overdentures.
How Do I Maintain and Care for Implant Overdentures?
Caring for implant overdentures is simple and similar to caring for natural teeth. Brushing the denture and cleaning around the implant attachments daily is essential. Regular dental check-ups at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa are recommended for professional cleaning and maintenance.
Are Implant Overdentures Expensive?
The cost of implant overdentures varies based on the number of implants required and the complexity of the case. While implant overdentures are generally more expensive than traditional dentures, they offer significant advantages in terms of functionality and aesthetics. We recommend discussing costs and payment options with our team.