All-On-4 Implants: The Method
Regaining a complete and functional smile through All-on-4 implants is an exciting prospect. However, it’s natural to have questions about the treatment process itself. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect.Consultation and Planning
The journey towards your new smile begins with a comprehensive consultation with your dentist. This initial visit involves:- Detailed examination: Your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and jawbone to assess your suitability for All-on-4 implants. This may include X-rays, CT scans, and impressions of your mouth.
- Treatment plan discussion: Based on the examination findings, your dentist will discuss the treatment plan in detail, outlining the procedure, potential risks and benefits, and expected timeline.
- Addressing your concerns: This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the process, anaesthesia options, recovery, and post-operative care.
How are my implants placed?
Once you and your dentist have decided to proceed, the implant placement surgery can be scheduled. Here’s what you can expect:- Preparation: The surgical site will be thoroughly cleaned and numbed with local anaesthesia or sedation, depending on your preferences and the dentist’s recommendation.
- Implant placement: The dentist will strategically place four implants in your jawbone, typically two at the front and two angled at the back for optimal support.
- Temporary teeth placement: In most cases, you will receive temporary acrylic teeth attached to the implants on the same day, allowing you to smile and eat comfortably while the permanent restoration is being crafted.
Healing and Follow-up
Following the implant placement, it’s crucial to allow your body time to heal and the implants to integrate with the jawbone. This healing process can typically take a few months. During this time:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions meticulously: This includes maintaining good oral hygiene, managing any discomfort with medication, and attending follow-up appointments for monitoring and adjustments.
- Dietary modifications: You may need to adapt your diet to softer foods initially to promote healing and prevent complications.
Final Restoration:
Once the healing process is complete, your dentist will take new impressions of your mouth to create permanent prosthetic teeth. The final restoration can be:
- Fixed bridge: This permanent bridge made of high-quality materials like zirconia or porcelain will be securely attached to the implants, providing a natural-looking and fully functional smile.
- Removable denture: In some cases, a removable denture may be recommended, especially if bone density is a concern.
Enjoying Your New Smile
With proper care and maintenance, All-on-4 implants will last for many years, allowing you to enjoy a confident smile, improved oral health, and enhanced quality of life.
Remember, this is a general overview, and your individual experience may vary. The next article in this series will discuss living with All-on-4 implants, focusing on care, maintenance, and long-term benefits.
As always, consult your dentist for personalised advice and a detailed treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and situation.
This article is the second part of a comprehensive guide on All-on-4 implants. In the next article, we will delve deeper into the treatment process, exploring the steps involved and what to expect during and after the procedure.
If you missed the first part, click the second button to read the Guide to Understanding All-On-4 Implants