The All-on-4 implant procedure is a revolutionary tooth replacement surgery used for missing and/or severely damaged teeth. What makes this procedure so different from traditional implant dentistry in Chicago is the fact patients can get a fully restored smile in just one dental visit.
What are All-On-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants take dental innovation to a whole new level. They are designed for patients who are missing their top and/or bottom rows of teeth. Instead of replacing just one tooth after extensive dental surgery, patients can restore their entire smile with an All-on-4 procedure.
All-on-4 dental implants are permanently fixed to titanium posts that are inserted into the jaw bone. These posts act as anchors for new dental prostheses that look like full sets of teeth.
Clinical Benefits
Dental implants offer a permanent solution to the functional and cosmetic issues associated with tooth loss and extensive tooth damage. Instead of dentures, which can be removed at will for cleaning and sleeping, All-on-4 implants are fixed in place and can only be removed by your dentist. This allows patients to eat the foods they want without worrying their dentures will come loose.
Implants are also extremely durable and easy to care for. You brush and floss them daily just like natural teeth. Dental implants also help protect the integrity of your jaw and facial structure. This is because implants are inserted into the jaw bone, which prevents the loss of bone density, unlike dentures which sit on top of the gum tissue.
The Procedure
Before the procedure, you will receive a consultation which will include a comprehensive exam and dental X-rays. Your dentist will also explain how extensive the procedure and recovery time will be, what results you can expect, as well as other aspects related to implant treatment.
Following your consultation, you will be able to decide whether the dental implant procedure is right for you. If you do choose to restore your smile with All-on-4 implants, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.
To prepare for the procedure, your dentist will take a number of measurements, including the height of your gum lines, bite impressions, and other assessments. This will allow your dentist to plan out the placement of the implants, and create the most optimal design for your dental prosthesis, ensuring stability and comfort.
Your initial set of replacement teeth will be temporary. It will take about 3-6 months to fully heal from the procedure, after which your final, permanent prosthesis will replace the temporary one.
On the day of your surgery, you will be sedated. Your dentist will start by removing any decayed teeth or remnants of lost teeth, damaged gum tissue, and excess tissue. Your jaw bone will be exposed and if necessary, some of it may also be removed to ensure a proper fit for the prosthesis.
After your jaw bone is prepared for implant placement, holes will be drilled into the bone and the implants will be inserted. Then, your dentist will replace the gum tissue over the bone and around the posts. Your new set of teeth will be secured on top of the implants. Finally, your bite will be checked to ensure proper alignment.
You will need to ask a friend or family member to take you home after the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with post-procedure care instructions and prescribe medication to prevent infection and relieve pain. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to ensure you’re healing properly, and your implants remain strong and secure.
Good Candidates for All-On-4 Implants
Good candidates for All-on-4 dental implants are individuals with extremely damaged or missing teeth on the top and/or bottom rows. If you already have dentures, a dental bridge that needs replacing, or are searching for a permanent solution to missing or damaged teeth, All-on-4 implants might be right for you.
Contact Northalsted Dental Spa for Restorative Dentistry Procedures in Chicago
If you’re interested in restoring beauty and integrity to your smile, contact us at Northalsted Dental Spa today and schedule a consultation with our top cosmetic dentist in Chicago, IL.
