Getting rid of dentures for good can take months to complete, but a revolutionary procedure allows patients to get a complete set of dental implants in just one day. Normally, once someone has lost their teeth, they don't have enough bone remaining in their jaw for implants. However, using the latest 3D imaging technology—the "all on four" technique—it takes as little as four hours to put a bridge on just four implants, which are angled to utilize the bone that is available.
Living with dentures doesn't have to be the only solution. Are you a candidate for All-on-4?
Most likely! Most patients with or without teeth are candidates for the All-on-4 procedure! We utilize cutting-edge 3D imaging techniques to evaluate bone quality, volume & quantity and expertly assess which treatment option(s) will be right for you. We also perform virtual surgery before you are in the chair - meaning you will be able to see your results before the surgery, and each pre-planned step will be executed with the utmost precision.
How are All-on-4 dental implants different from normal dentures?
As opposed to dentures, All-On-Four dental implants are a permanent set of teeth that look and feel natural. They are permanent teeth that look and feel like natural teeth. All-On-Four dental implants are stable, allowing you to bite with increased force. This allows you to eat all of your favorite foods once again!
No more discomfort! Taste and experience your food, as before!
There are even more benefits. The presence of the implants in the jaw stimulates the bone, thus preventing further bone deterioration. And there is no more nightly removal and cleaning and no more messy, sticky adhesives!
How do All-On-Four Dental Implants compare to traditional dental implants?
The All-On-4 procedure uses less implants and requires less bone. It does this by utilizing only 4 implants to replace all teeth on an upper arch, instead of 5 to 8 per arch in traditional implants. The angled placement of the posterior implants of the All-On-4 procedure allow for increased support by using the natural support of your bone. Also, traditional implants often require bone grafting, a process that can take 6 months or more. The All-On-4 Dental protocol requires no bone grafting for most patients, with a success rate that is equal to or better than traditional implants.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for All-on-4 dental implants?
We utilize cutting-edge 3D imaging techniques to expertly assess which treatment option(s) will be right for you. Using the 3D image of your jaw, we evaluate bone quality, volume & quantity. Most patients with or without teeth are candidates for the All-on-4 procedure. We also perform virtual surgery before you are in the chair - meaning you will be able to see your results before the surgery, and each pre-planned step will be executed with the utmost precision.
How is the All-on-4 procedure different than normal oral surgery?
We use computer guided planning & perform computer guided surgery, all before your procedure, which allows the highest level of precision, saves you time in the chair, and allows for your teeth to be pre-manufactured. This means there will be no need for a Lab. & no wait after your procedure; You will leave with your new teeth on that very same visit. This technique can be used for both patients with some remaining teeth or patients with all teeth missing. What's more, with our prefabrication method, we are able to include a hidden metal framework in your bridge, making your new teeth much stronger and long-lasting. If we find it is necessary (due to lack of bone quality or quantity), we also will use 6 implants instead of 4 if necessary, to ensure the strength and longevity of your new teeth.
Will people be able to see the line between the fixed bridge and the jaw bone?
Our method eliminates this ‘line’ in most patients. As part of your initial examination we evaluate your smile to determine where the junction of the fixed bridge and the jaw bone will be. During the All-on-4 procedure, we make adjustments to ensure that your new smile is not too "gummy" and that the edge of your bridge is completely hidden.
Why don’t all dentists use the All-on-4 Procedure?
The All-on-4 technique is fairly new, and not all dentists are comfortable performing this procedure. At Indianapolis Dentistry we are All-on-4 specialists, and have been performing the procedure since it became available. Other more traditional treatments can sometimes be a viable option as well. In some cases, All-on-4 is a better treatment option. When you come in for a consultation, we evaluate your condition and make a custom diagnosis to see what option/method is the best treatment for you.
Does the All-on-4 oral surgery procedure hurt?
The All-on-4 surgery is virtually painless. After the numbness wears off, you will experience a little swelling and soreness that will last a few days. Many patients return to their normal routine 1-2 days after their surgery, and this time is needed not usually because of pain, but because they need to adjust to the presence of their new teeth, as it may affect their speech slightly.
What can I eat after the All-on-4 Procedure?
Because of the hidden metal framework we are able to include in our prefabrication process, your new teeth will be strong and stable. You will be able to eat most foods right away (except for hard, brittle or chewy foods), and you will be able to return to a regular diet within 6-10 weeks.
How long does an All-on-4 Procedure take?
After your initial consultation and diagnostic procedures, your implants and new teeth will be placed all in one appointment, even if you need extractions. With All-on-4, you arrive at our office with bad (or no) teeth, and leave the very same day with a beautiful set of fixed, functional teeth.
What is the success rate of the All-on-4 Procedure?
Published studies show a 98.2% success rate when using the All-on-4 technique in the lower jaw. Other studies show a 97 to 98% success in the upper jaw for the same procedure. Occasionally, an implant will fail. Knowing this, we carefully evaluate bone quality and quantity prior to your procedure, and will place six implants if we feel it is a necessary precaution.