All-on-4 Implants | Aussiedentalcare

What are All-on-4 Implants?

All-on-4 implants have become a popular option in Australia, for replacing an entire arch of missing or damaged teeth by strategically placing four implants. The jawbone is inserted with four titanium implants in this innovative technique to create a stable foundation for a complete set of prosthetic teeth.

The all-on-4 system is created to provide a more streamlined and cost-effective alternative to conventional implants, which frequently necessitate more implants and procedures.

The placement of four implants is usually done at specific angles to maximise support and stability, which allows for immediate or early placement of a temporary set of teeth. Compared to other implant options, this approach can result in a significant reduction in treatment time and recovery.

How can damaged teeth affect your oral health?

Damaged teeth can have a significant impact on many aspects of your life. Health-wise, problems like cracked, decayed or broken teeth can cause persistent pain, infections and chewing difficulties. Uncomfortable eating can lead to nutritional deficiencies if you are unable to consume a balanced diet.

Having damaged teeth can have a personal impact on your confidence and self-esteem. Your social interactions and general sense of well-being may be affected by visible damage or missing teeth, which can cause you to feel self-conscious about your smile.

Also teeth that are damaged can lead to additional dental problems. For example, misalignment or additional stress on neighbouring teeth can arise, potentially leading to more complex and costly treatments in the future.

Maintaining both oral health and overall quality of life is a crucial factor in maintaining a healthy mouth, which is why prompt attention to dental damage is crucial.

Are you a candidate for All-on-4 Implants?

Severe tooth loss – If you have lost a significant amount of your teeth in one or both arches, all-on-4 implants can provide a comprehensive solution by substituting a whole arch with just four implants.
Extensive tooth damage or decay – For severe tooth damage or decay to multiple teeth that cannot be restored with traditional treatment, all-on-4 implants may be an ideal option.
Gum disease – The loss of bone structure supporting the teeth can occur in advanced gum disease, known as Periodontitis. All-on-4 implants could be a suitable option for bone loss caused by gum disease, since they are designed to be placed in areas with less bone.
Bone loss – If you have experienced significant jawbone loss, which might not support traditional implants, all-on-4 implants are designed to use available bone more effectively due to their angled placement.
Difficulty with dentures – If you are currently suffering from discomfort due to dentures, profit or difficulty with function all-on-4 implants may offer a more stable and comfortable option.
Functional issues – This treatment is a reliable and functional solution for functional issues such as chewing, speaking or maintaining proper oral function caused by damaged or missing teeth.
Desire for a permanent solution – If you are looking for a more permanent and less invasive option compared to traditional implant methods, all-on-4 implants may be a good choice, as they offer a quicker and less invasive approach to replacing all your teeth.

After recognising these pre-existing oral issues, you should consult with a dental professional in Australia as the first step.

Consulting with a dentist – Schedule a visit with a dentist or oral surgeon who is skilled in all-on-4 implants dentistry in Australia. Your oral health will be assessed by them and they will discuss your specific needs and preference.
Comprehensive examination – To examine your jawbone and surrounding tissues, your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination, which will include x-rays or CT scans. Using this imaging technique, they can determine if there is enough bone density and structure to support the all-on-4 implants.
Assessment of dental health – The dentist will review your overall dental health including any existing dental issues, gum health and the condition of your remaining teeth. This helps plan the appropriate treatment.
Evaluation of your medical history – To determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure they will review your medical history, which includes any chronic conditions or medications.
Discussion of treatment goals – Have a conversation with your dentist about your treatment goals and expectations. For patients who want a faster and less invasive option than traditional implant methods, all-on-4 implants are commonly recommended for replacing an entire arch of missing or damaged teeth.
Financial consideration – Discuss the cost of the all-on-4 procedure and check if it fits within your budget.

By following these steps, you can determine whether all-on-4 implants are the best choice for your dental needs.

Benefits of All-on-4 Implants

Immediate results – The all-on-4 implants system provides immediate results by placing a full set of replacement teeth on just four implants, often within a single day.
Cost effective – By using less implants than conventional methods, the all-on-4 approach can be more affordable while still offering a complete dental solution.
Reduced bone loss – The implant’s design and placement is to support and preserve the underlying bone,with the potential for reducing bone loss.
Enhance stability– Stability is enhanced through strategically placed implants that maximise support and stability, resulting in a secure fit for the prosthetic teeth.
Less invasive – All-on-4 implants are typically less invasive compared to full-mouth implant procedures that require more implants, often requiring fewer surgeries.
Quicker recovery – Due to the procedure’s less invasive nature and fewer implants, recovery times can be shorter.
Improves function – The system improves chewing function and overall oral health by providing a stable foundation for a full arch of teeth.

Aesthetic improvement – To improve your aesthetic, the final prosthetics are designed to look natural and enhance your smile and overall appearance.

All-on-4 vs Dentures

Stability and function
- Dentures – When chewing, removable dentures can shift or feel less stable. Stability can be enhanced by adhesives, but they may not completely stop movement.
- All-on-4 implants – All-on-4 implants are fixed securely in the jawbone, offering superior stability and more natural feel. This makes chewing and speaking easier and more comfortable.
Bone preservation
- Dentures – Overtime bone loss cannot be prevented by dentures, which can result in changes in facial structure and discomfort.
- All-on-4 implants – The jawbone density can be maintained and stimulated by all-on-4 implants, bone loss can be reduced and facial structure can be preserved.
Comfort and fit
- Dentures – At first, dentures may feel bulky or uncomfortable and may result in irritation or sore spots. There may be a need for regular adjustment.
- All-on-4 implants – This treatment provides a custom-fitted prosthetic that is fixed and comfortable, reducing irrigation and the need for adjustment.
Longevity
- Dentures – Dentures require replacement or adjustment every few years due to wear and changes in jawbone shape.
- All-on-4 implants – Taking proper care can ensure the longevity of all-on-4 implants, making thema durable long-term solution.
Maintenance
- Dentures – To maintain, dentures require daily cleaning and removal and special products can be used to soak or clean them.
- All-on-4 implants – Brushing and flossing are necessary for regular oral hygiene with all-on-4 implants, just like with natural teeth, but they don’t need to be removed for cleaning.

Treatment Process in All-on-4 Implants

Initial consultations – Your dentist or oral surgeon will conduct an initial assessment of your oral health, discuss your needs and formulate a treatment plan during the consultation. It’s common for this to involve x-rays or scans to evaluate your bone structure and determine the best placement for the implants.
Pre-surgical preparation – If necessary, pre-surgical procedures like tooth extractions or bone grafting can be performed to prepare your mouth for the implants.
Implant placement – Under local anaesthesia or sedation, four implants are strategically placed in your jawbone. To maximise bone contact and stability, the two posterior implants are typically placed at specific angles.
Temporary prosthesis – A temporary set of teeth is often attached to the implants on the same day, making it possible to smile functionally while the implants integrate with the bone.
Osseointegration – Over the next couple of months, the implants will fuse with the jawbone through osseointegration which is a process. The long-term success of implants are dependent on this, which usually takes 3 to 6 months.
Final Prosthesis – After osseointegration is finished, a final prosthetic arch is made and attached to the implants. The goal of this prosthesis is to be long lasting, functional and visually appealing.
Follow up and maintenance – Regular appointments are set-up to ensure that the implants and prosthesis are functioning correctly and to keep oral health in check. The longevity of your implants depends on proper oral hygiene and care.

Technology and Materials used in All-on-4 Implants

The all-on-4 dental implant procedure involves the use of advanced technology and high-quality materials to ensure the best outcomes.

Technology

Digital imaging and planning
- 3d CT scans – Detailed images of the jawbone and surrounding structures can be obtained through 3d CT scans, which help precise implant placement.
- Digital impressions – These are used to create accurate moulds of the mouth, which enhance the fit and comfort of prosthetic teeth.
Guided implant surgery
- Surgical guides – Digital scans and planning are used to create custom-made surgical guides that guarantee accurate implant placement.
Intraoral scanners
- Digital scanning – Digital scanning provides mouth images that are detailed and accurate, which improves the fir of dental prosthetics and reduces the need for physical moulds.

Materials

Implant materials
- Titanium – Titanium is the most commonly used material for dental implants due to its strength and biocompatibility. It is well-matched with bone tissue.
- Zirconia – In some cases, zirconia can replace titanium by offering a metal-free alternative with similar biocompatibility and strength.
Abutments
- Titanium or Zirconia – Implants and prosthetic teeth are connected by abutments that are made of durable materials to ensure stability.
Prosthetic materials
- Acrylic resin – Due to its durability and aesthetic qualities, acrylic resin is frequently used as the basis of the prosthetic arch.
- Porcelain or composite raisins – To achieve a natural appearance and resistance to wear, teeth are covered with either porcelain or composite resins.

Cost of All-on-4 Implants

In Australia, the cost of All-on-4 implant typically ranges from $19000 to $27000 per arch. This estimate includes ;

Initial consultation and diagnostic – Imaging-evaluations and scans to plan the procedure.
Surgical placement of the implants
Temporary prosthesis – Immediate replacement teeth
Final prosthesis – Custom made permanent teeth
Post-operative care and adjustments

The cost can vary depending on the dentist’s location, experience and the complexity of the procedure. It;s advisable to ask multiple dental clinics in Australia for quotes and ask about financing options.

FAQs

How long can I expect all-on-4 implants to last?
- The purpose of all-on-4 implants is to provide a long-term solution. Proper care can ensure that the implants can last for many years or even a lifetime. The lifespan of the prosthetic teeth attached to the implants is largely dependent on oral hygiene maintenance and overall implant health. Regular dental check-ups are necessary to guarantee the durability and proper functioning of both implants and prosthetic teeth.
Can I eat anything with all-on-4 implants?
- Yes, most foods, including hard and chewy items, can generally be eaten with all-on-4 implants. To ensure comfort and assess the implants’ performance, it is best to begin with soft foods and gradually introduce harder ones.
What is the recovery period?
- All processes can take 3 – 6 months.
Is all-on-4 implants painful?
- Due to the use of local anaesthesia or sedation during the surgery, the all-on-4 procedure is usually considered painless. Pain relief medication prescribed is usually sufficient to manage post-operative discomfort.
What is the success rate of all-on-4 implants?
- All-on-4 implants generally have a success rate of 90% – 95%. Proper placement, patient adherence to post operative care and overall oral health determine the success rate.