All-on-4

It’s a real personal tragedy when we lose our teeth, or if we face the fact that our existing teeth are in irreparable condition. Nowadays, not having a full set of teeth is unacceptable, thus the social and psychological consequences of visible or widespread tooth loss can be very serious, not to mention its negative effects on our health.

The good news is that these modern times are not only filled with challenges, but also unique opportunities for all of us: thanks to advances in dental techniques, today’s dentists know almost no boundaries. Since All-on-4’s introduction just a few years ago, the combination of complete toothlessness and insufficient bone mass are no longer insurmountable, either.

WHAT IS ALL-ON-4?

The essence of the All-on-4 procedure cannot be summed up in a single sentence. The procedure possesses several advantages that no other method in dental implantology can match.

Applying the technology:

• Four implants provide stable fixation of the entire upper or lower denture. In a conventional procedure, at least 6, but oftentimes 8-10 implants per upper/lower are required for complete rehabilitation of an entire dental arch.
• In just one operation, unsavable teeth are removed and implants installed. In the conventional procedure, implantation takes place in the recovery period (3-6 months) after tooth extraction.
• Even in cases of insufficient bone mass, successful rehabilitation can be performed without bone replacement surgery. Conventional implantation treatment requires bone replacement surgery for insufficient bone mass; if the patient does not agree to that, he/she receives a removable denture.
• Because of their form and angle of implantation, All-on-4 implants can be loaded immediately, so they can be fitted with a fixed temporary denture shortly after insertion, which is the perfect solution for the healing period, both functionally and in appearance. Removable replacements are not required – even temporarily. In the conventional procedure, a removable temporary replacement can only be provided after implant placement.
• Due to the material properties of the temporary bridge, it does not inhibit gingival regeneration or the fixation of implant screws; complete recovery happens within 3-5 months. In the conventional procedure, ossification of the artificial roots takes place over 6 months.
• Like natural teeth, the fixed temporary replacement stimulates the gums and bones so that they do not deteriorate. Removable dentures have no significant stimulating effect, so during the 6-month-long healing period a mild-but-measurable atrophy of the gum and bone begin to occur.
• During the healing period, thanks to the fixed denture, the patient can live his/her life effortlessly and without compromise. In a conventional procedure, patients must deal with the discomfort that often occurs with a removable prosthesis (wiggling, movement, falling out).
• The final denture is designed based on the impressions of a fixed temporary replacement, so its colour, shape, size, and depth of bite will all be adequate. Naturally, we are able to achieve a perfect end result even with the conventional procedure, but, typically, more adjustments are needed – while the All-on-4 denture meets all of the patient’s

It’s not hard to understand that this technology is a wonder, saving the patient from serious surgical and financial burdens while delivering results that meet his/her every need, and a significant improvement to their quality of life – all within 24 hours, thanks to a fixed temporary replacement.

STEPS FOR ALL-ON-4 INTERVENTION:

• CONSULTATION

We examine the condition of the teeth and jaw, and evaluate a panoramic x-ray or CT scan of the oral cavity. Once this information has been compiled, we plan the size and positioning of the implants to be installed. This stage gives us a chance to discuss any questions and address any doubts that may arise regarding the procedure.

• IMPLANTATION AND TAKING OF IMPRESSIONS

As part of the operation, irreparable teeth are removed and implants are placed. The procedure can be performed painlessly under local anaesthesia. Minimal post-operative pain is alleviated by painkillers and any facial swelling is decreased with an ice pack.

• FIXED, TEMPORARY REPLACEMENT

Based on an impression taken of the oral cavity, the dental laboratory prepares a temporary fixed replacement within 24 hours, so that it is inserted into the patient’s mouth the next day.

• INSTALLATION OF THE FINAL REPLACEMENT

The implants become a stable part of the jaw within 3-5 months, so that a permanent replacement can be placed on them. It may be made of zirconium, metal-ceramic, composite-covered metal frame or innovative PEEK material (BioHPP); the choice is dependent upon aesthetic and/or other needs of the patient.

• REGULAR CHECK-UPS AND DENTAL HYGIENE TREATMENT

First, we expect the patient to undergo periodic check-ups 4 weeks after treatment, and then every 6 months for regular check-up by the attendant specialist and tartar removal by a qualified dental hygienist.

OTHER INFORMATION

Contraindications are the same as for conventional implantology procedures. Similarly, post-operative procedures are the same as those required for other implant procedures. Just like traditional artificial roots, with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups and scaling, All-on-4 implants last a lifetime.