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Suite 207,
Jupiter, FL 33458
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All-on-4® Implant Dentures

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As we get older, many of us experience a decrease in our dental health. Although our instinct is to keep repairing each tooth as it becomes damaged, these teeth can gradually become weaker over time. When several of our teeth have decayed or become otherwise compromised, it is often more beneficial to replace the full arch. Traditionally, removable dentures have been used for this purpose, but by using dental implant technology, our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Daniel Lauer, is able to provide the more natural alternative of implant-supported dentures

What Is All-on-4®?

All-on-4® is a treatment concept that uses four dental implants to anchor a full-arch denture to the jawbone. Two of the implants are placed at the front of the mouth, and the other two are placed towards the back at a slight angle. By tilting these posterior implant posts, there is optimal contact with the available jawbone.

Although the All-on-4® system traditionally utilizes four implants, Dr. Lauer may advise patients they may require anywhere from four to six, depending on the quality of their individual jawbone. If too few implants are used to support the denture, there is a higher risk of implant failure. By utilizing additional implants, such as in the “All-on-6” procedure, certain individuals are more likely to achieve a successful outcome.

all on four illustration

Am I a Candidate for All-on-4® Dental Implants?

There are various factors to consider regarding the best dental implant option for each individual. However, in general, ideal candidates for the All-on-4® system include those with the following:

  • Suitable oral health and no signs of gum disease
  • Overall good health without any serious conditions that may affect the healing process
  • Adequate jawbone density to support four to six implants
  • Extensive tooth damage and/or multiple missing teeth
  • Interest in a fixed, long-lasting implant solution for upper and/or lower teeth
  • Dissatisfaction with partial or full dentures, such as slippage and messy adhesives
  • Not eligible for a full set of dental implants 
  • Willing to abstain from smoking before and after getting dental implants

During your initial visit, Dr. Lauer will discuss your goals and complete a full exam of your teeth, jawbone density, dental bone volume, and oral health to determine which restorative treatment will be the most beneficial for your needs.

What Can I Expect During My All-on-4® Procedure?

The All-on-4® procedure is customized to the finest details of each patient’s anatomy and unique needs. Once an individual is considered a candidate for the technique, Dr. Lauer will begin the in-depth planning process. This will include evaluating their oral structures, determining the number of implants needed, and identifying preliminary work that may be necessary—such as bone grafting or tooth extraction. With this information, Dr. Lauer will have a surgical map fabricated to guide him throughout surgery, ensuring the utmost precision.

During the procedure, Dr. Lauer will carefully place the designated number of implants into their optimal locations and positions. Depending on the patient’s treatment plan, this may involve one of the following All-on-4® techniques:

  • Upper Arch Replacement: Patients needing a new set of upper teeth will undergo an upper arch replacement.
  • Lower Arch Replacement: If a patient has tooth damage concentrated in their lower teeth, they will receive a lower arch replacement.
  • Full Mouth Restoration: Should both the upper and lower arches need work, a full mouth teeth replacement (New Teeth in a Day) may be recommended.

In some cases, the entire All-on-4® process can be completed within a 24-hour period. Patients will wear a temporary restoration as their implants fuse with their jawbone over the course of four to six months. After this time, the final restoration that has been tailored to look like their natural, healthy teeth will be placed.

What Can I Expect After My All-on-4® Procedure?

Dr. Lauer and the team at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry ensure each patient has a clear understanding of their procedure, as well as what can be expected during the healing process. There may be some swelling, sensitivity, or discomfort immediately following the All-on-4® procedure, which should subside after a few days. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications to manage these symptoms can be helpful, taken as prescribed.

Patients are usually able to resume normal daily activities within a few days to a week after the treatment—with the exception of any strenuous actions, which should be delayed if possible until approved by Dr. Lauer. It is also strongly advised during the recovery process to consume only soft foods for at least six weeks. Upon follow-up evaluations, Dr. Lauer can guide you with recommendations for when all activities and favorite foods can be resumed as normal.

How Long Do All-on-4® Implants Last?

High-quality implant dentures that are cared for with good dental hygiene and habits can last for 10-15 years, sometimes even longer. Committing to daily oral upkeep, routine cleanings and exams, and check-ups with a board-certified periodontal specialist, such as Dr. Lauer, are key to implant success.

All of these actions help to prevent bacteria from infiltrating below the gumline, which can lead to infections, disease, decay, or even implant failure (although it is rare). If you are committed to following these practices and tending to optimal oral care, your All-on-4® implant dentures have the ability to uphold a long-term lifespan—possibly even decades.

How Do You Clean All-on-4® Dental Implants?

Caring for your All-on-4® dental implants mimics the same responsibilities of caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, regular professional cleanings, and twice-annual oral exams with X-rays are all part of an important routine to keeping your implant-supported dentures in healthy condition. Patients should always notify their dentist’s office immediately if an issue with their dental implant occurs, so they can be evaluated before a possible problem worsens.

“I had lots of anxiety due to previous dental experiences. Dr. Lauer and his amazing team made me feel comfortable through the entire process. I love the results and highly recommend this office. They are THE BEST!”

Tina G. | Actual Patient

How Much Do All-on-4® Dental Implants Cost?

Since the details of the All-on-4® procedure are customized to each patient’s needs, the total cost will vary from case to case. Factors that may influence the cost include:

  • Preliminary dental work, like atraumatic tooth removal, ridge augmentation, and gum disease treatment
  • Laboratory costs for the custom-made restoration
  • Number of dental implants needed to support the denture
  • Expertise of the oral surgeon and restoring dentist

Implant dentures, such as the All-on-4® system, are a more cost-efficient solution for patients needing to replace the majority of teeth within an arch. Although it may seem unnecessary to replace a full arch when teeth are still present, repeatedly fixing these remaining teeth ultimately costs more over time. With All-on-4® dental implants, patients can significantly improve their oral function and aesthetic with long-lasting results.

During the initial consultation, Dr. Lauer will provide a comprehensive view of the All-on-4® system, going over the benefits of choosing the solution as well as potential side effects. After determining the specifics of the patient’s treatment plan, he can provide a personalized cost quote.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About All-on-4®

What Do All-on-4® Dental Implants Feel Like? 

All-on-4® dental implants provide a secure prosthesis that closely mimics the feel of natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip and slide, making it difficult to enjoy certain foods, All-on-4® implants are anchored firmly into the jawbone. This means that the attached denture remains in place, offering a level of comfort and confidence that is unmatched by traditional dentures. Patients often report that All-on-4® implants feel like their natural teeth, allowing them to eat, speak, and smile without worry.

How Many Dental Implants Will I Need with All-on-4®?

The number of dental implants needed with the All-on-4® system depends on various factors, including the arch being treated and the amount of available bone. Typically, four implants are used per arch, though 6 may be needed in some cases. If a patient has lost all their teeth, additional implants may be necessary to ensure a higher success rate. More implants can help distribute pressure more evenly, which can increase the longevity of the denture. The more implants used, the larger and more robust the prosthesis can be, allowing for a more comprehensive reconstruction of the original teeth.

How Long Do All-on-4® Dental Implants Take to Heal? 

The healing time for All-on-4® dental implants can vary depending on the treatment plan. In some cases, the procedure can be completed within 24 hours, allowing patients to leave the office with a new set of teeth on the same day. Alternatively, the process can be staged over several months, typically taking about 3-4 months for the implants to heal and integrate with the bone before the final prosthesis is placed. If bone grafting is required before the implants can be placed, the overall treatment time may extend to 6-8 months from start to finish.

Does Getting All-no-4 Implant Dentures Hurt? 

Although everyone responds differently to surgery, most patients are able to manage any discomfort during the first week after their All-on-4® procedure with over-the-counter or prescription-strength pain medication. It is important to follow Dr. Lauer’s recommendations for pain management to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

To learn if All-on-4® is the best solution for your needs, please contact Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry to schedule your appointment with Dr. Lauer at our Jupiter office.