Typically, if you lose an entire arch of missing teeth, 6-to-8 dental implants can be used to support an implant-supported denture. However, when you have suffered too much bone loss, there is a greater risk of implant failure. The implants need sufficient bone mass for successful osseointegration. Without it, your implants won’t be as stable as they should be. Even if only one implant of an implant supported denture fails, your entire restoration is put at risk.
The All-on-4© Treatment Concept Explained
The All-on-4 treatment concept was designed to give those who have suffered bone loss an opportunity to experience implants without the need for a bone graft. The success of the treatment relies less on the number of implants placed and more on the placement of the implants used. With this treatment concept, only four implants are used.
Two implants are placed at the front of the mouth, where there is naturally more bone mass. The other two implants are placed at the back of the mouth. They are inserted at a 45-degree angle. This helps to maximize the amount of contact between the implant and your existing bone mass. In the upper jaw, this also helps to avoid puncturing the maxillary sinus cavities. The result is a strong, stable replacement denture that allows you to avoid extra surgery or being stuck with dentures.
The All-on-4© Treatment Concept Benefits
- Less surgery is needed and there is less downtime following surgery.
- You avoid the need for bone grafts, sinus lifts, or being relegated to dentures.
- Enjoy greater comfort, permanence, and the prevention of further bone loss.
Get All on 4© Even With Limited Bone Mass
Dental implants are popular for restoring the functions and appearance of your mouth, as well as putting an end to bone loss in the jaw. However, if you have lost too much bone mass following tooth loss, your jaw may not be strong enough for regular dental implants. This used to mean you would have to consider traditional dentures. At Edelweiss Dental Implant Center, we can provide those who have experienced bone loss with the All on 4 treatment concept.
What are the Consequences of Missing Teeth?
Immediate Consequences
Losing your teeth has several negative impacts on your oral health and overall quality of life, and many of the consequences are immediately apparent.
- Missing teeth diminish the beauty of your smile.
- You begin having trouble biting and chewing your favorite foods.
- Your speech suffers, and others have a more difficult time understanding you.
Long Term Consequences
There are also consequences of tooth loss that aren’t noticed until later.
- Your jawbone begins to resorb and weaken.
- When your jaw resorbs, the jaw and face changes shape.
- Eventually, your cheeks begin to sag and appear hollow.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are a relatively recent development in tooth replacement technology. They consist of three major components – the implant, the abutment, and the crown.
- The implant is a small titanium rod that requires a surgical procedure to place. It relies on osseointegration, or the fusion of your jawbone to the implant, to create a stable support for your replacement teeth.
- The abutment is a connector that is placed at the top of the implant.
- Finally, the restoration is attached to the implant. In this case, the final restoration will be a set of new teeth in the form of an implant-supported denture.