04 Nov Can I Replace Both Lower and Upper Teeth With All-on-4?
If you have suffered with total tooth loss, you might think that your only option for restoring your smile is with conventional dentures. While dentures are a popular solution to addressing complete tooth loss, patients do have alternatives that can offer unique benefits such as increased oral function. All-on-4, a method which involves securing dentures to dental implants, is a relatively new option for restoring smiles among edentulous patients. All-on-4 can be used to replace both sets of teeth in the upper and lower jaws.
How does All-on-4 work?
All-on-4 is a specific method of placing dental implants in the jawbone. Their ultimate positioning in the jaw is precise so that implants can secure dentures in place and evenly distribute the weight and force exerted upon them during oral function. Traditional dentures rely on the arch of the jaw for support and lay on top of the gums. Since dentures only address the loss of the crowns of teeth and not the roots, they can fall short in the way that they function. Dental implants, once placed in the jaw, will ultimately function like the biological roots of teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants are beneficial for both oral function and maintaining the oral health system. Implants are constructed from titanium, a biocompatible metal. Since titanium is used, bone can literally fuse to and around the implants, much like the roots of teeth. Dental implants will prevent denture movement so that patients can enjoy comfortable and confident oral function. Moreover, implants help keep bone stimulated and healthy, therefore slowing down deterioration of bone mass.
Is All-on-4 right for me?
If All-on-4 is of interest to you, we recommend consulting with our oral surgeon by scheduling an appointment. During your visit, we will answer your questions and perform an oral examination to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. For the most part, patients who have lost all their teeth or already have dentures should consider All-on-4 as an option.
Call us today at Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates to reserve a consultation.