Losing your teeth or knowing you will in the not-too-distant future can be devastating. For many people, traditional teeth replacement options can be invasive and involve a lengthy healing time.
While removable dentures are a non-invasive option with no downtime, they can be uncomfortable. They can also cause problems with eating and talking clearly, due to their ill-fitting, unstable nature.
If you want to replace missing teeth without the hassle of removable dentures, All-on-4 is a great option.
This innovative concept was developed by Professor Paulo Malo in the 1990s, in partnership with Swiss dental implant company Nobel Biocare. It allows you to have tooth removal, implant surgery, and fitting of a temporary bridge to restore your smile—all in as little as 1-3 days!
The procedure involves the placement of 4 (but sometimes up to 6) titanium dental implants into the jaw. The revolutionary All-on-4 technique ensures all the implants are precisely placed—with the back two implants angled at 45 degrees. This overcomes any bone deficiencies (no grafting required!) and provides exceptional support for your new set of fixed teeth.
All on 4 provides the same high-level stability you get from traditional implants, with a faster and far less invasive procedure. But the best part is the All on 4 success rate.
In this article we’ll look at the factors that contribute to All-on-4’s high success rate. We’ll also explore the advantages and how to choose an All on 4 dentist for best results.
With a 95-98% success rate*, All-on-4 dental implants are clinically proven to be one of the most successful dental treatments available.
*Malo P etal. A longitudinal study of the survival of All-on-4 implants in the mandible with up to 10 years of follow-up. J Am Dent Assoc. 2011 Mar;142(3):310-20.
All-on-4 is a fixed, full-arch treatment with up to 18 years of documented clinical success (when using components made by Nobel Biocare).1
A 2011 study followed 245 patients treated with all-on-4 in the lower jaw (mandible) for a period of 10 years. At the 5-year mark 98% of the implants remained intact. After 10 years, 95% of the implants were still going strong. The tooth bridge fared even better, with a 99% success rate.
The All-on-4 implant procedure involves careful planning to help achieve outstanding results. 3D x-ray imaging of your jawbone and a special (radio-graphic) guide determines whether optimal implant placement is achievable. Special computer software virtually places the implants to ensure the best position, angle, and distribution.
Not all dental implants and tooth bridges are equal. At Dental Implants on Miller, we only use authentic Nobel Biocare components, which are backed by a lifetime warranty. This means if the implant fails Nobel Biocare will provide replacement components at no charge. (There may be associated dentist fees or costs for grafting if required.)
Nobel Biocare uses high-performance biomaterials (supports tissue growth) such as zirconia and titanium in their manufacturing. Using well-researched, durable materials reduces the risk of cracks and fractures. Plus, the company’s cutting-edge technology ensures a perfect fit and natural look for its tooth bridges
The skill and experience of your dental surgeon can affect the success of your All-on-4 treatment. Dental Implants on Miller has official recognition as a Nobel Biocare All-on-4 Centre of Excellence. What does this mean? We have the surgical experience and training to provide genuine All on 4 treatment.
Want to avoid common All-on-4 problems and achieve outstanding results? Here are 5 factors to consider when looking for your All-on-4 dentist.
1. Is the clinic using genuine Nobel Biocare components and are they recognised as a Centre of Excellence?
2. What training does the dentist have in this procedure?
3. How many years of experience in All-on-4 procedures does the dentist have?
4. Is there a warranty on the treatment?
5. Does the clinic have a highly trained anaesthetist to administer sedation?
Good aftercare is essential for the success and longevity of your all-on-4 dental implants. Here are a few tips for taking care of your new smile.
Follow your dentist’s recommendations
Following your All on 4 treatment your dentist will provide you with instructions for ongoing care. Following this advice will help avoid complications (such as infection) and aid the fusing process (between the implant and gums). This is essential for the success of your All-on-4 dental implant treatment.
Maintain good oral hygiene
All-on-4 dental implants are the closest alternative to natural teeth. So, you should care for them the same way you would real teeth. Continue to brush and floss regularly to avoid decay and infection. And don’t forget to book in for a regular check-up and clean. During these appointments your dentist will clean your implants and provide tips on how to clean your implants at home.
DID YOU KNOW? Implants can’t develop tooth decay, but they can fail if the gum tissue around them becomes infected. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a must.
Take care of your health
Chronic health conditions (including diabetes, vascular diseases, and osteoporosis) can weaken bones and delay healing. Take great care of your general health and you’ll prolong the lifespan of your dental implants.
Quit smoking
Being a smoker doesn’t affect your eligibility for All on 4, but your dentist may recommend you quit smoking. Not only is smoking harmful to your general health, but also your oral health.
Several studies have shown that tobacco use is linked to greater risk of implant failure, compared to non-smokers. This is because smoking affects the body’s healing process and can lead to increased risk of infection following implant surgery.
At Dental Implants on Miller, we’ve seen time and time again how replacing our patients’ missing teeth and helping them regain their smile transforms their lives. Want to find out if you’re eligible for All-on-4? Book a free consultation (valued at $700) today.