Approximately40 million AmericansThey are reported to be missing all teeth (and many others are missing at least several teeth). There are many possible reasons for tooth loss, but regardless of why it happened, it can pose a serious problem.
If you've lost a tooth, especially if you've lost all your teeth, you need to weigh your options. For many people, dental implants are the most effective choice.
If you are missing all your teeth, all-on-4 dental implants are the best option. A dentist does not have to insert every single implant. Instead, you get two full arches of teeth held in place by just a few metal implants.
But why choose dental implants over dentures or any other type of dentures? Let us talk about it. Read on to learn all about the pros and cons of all-on-4 implants so you can make an informed decision about your dental health.
Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants
Overall, we believe all-on-4 dental implants are the best option for most people who are missing all or most of their teeth. There are many benefits of these implants that set them apart from other types of dental services.
Here are some of the key benefits of choosing all-on-4 dental implants.
Fast and effective results
If you decide to getAll-on-4 dental implants, there will be a short wait before you can use your actual "teeth". However, the results are still pretty quick considering you're getting a whole new set of teeth.
After you have decided on implants, your dentist will make sure your oral health is good, take some measurements of your mouth and order your custom implants.
After that, only one appointment is required to actually insert the implants and insert your “teeth”. This is much quicker than the process of getting a full mouth with "traditional" implants (which are still a fantastic option for people who are only missing a few teeth) and is comparable to the process of getting custom dentures.
The operation is also quick and you will be under anesthesia.
Complications can occur with the vast majority of implantsare successful in the long term, so that the quick results are also long-lasting.
Few restrictions on eating or speaking
When you're missing most of your teeth, eating and speaking are far more complicated (and often painful). While wearing dentures will somewhat fix the problem, you will still struggle with your dentures slipping and you being unable to eatcertain foods.
When you first get your dental implants, you may find it difficult to say certain letters and you may find eating difficult. However, after your implants have healed, you should be able to eat all or most of your favorite foods and speak naturally.
Talk to your oral surgeon about any specific concerns you have about food.
A simple healing process
Although the implantation is an oral surgical procedure, the healing process is less intense than you might imagine.
Implants begin to fuse with your jaw immediately. Although you may experience some tenderness during this process, you should be able to return to most of your normal activities in about a week without having to take strong painkillers (although taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs is a good idea). ).
Your oral surgeon can guide you through the healing process and offer advice on ideal foods and aftercare to ensure healing is quick and easy.
They treat them like "real teeth"
In all respects, your dental implants are now your real teeth. Once the healing process is complete, you don't need to do anything special to take care of them.
This means that you treat your teeth like natural teeth when it comes to dental hygiene. You should still brush your teeth at least twice a day and make sure you floss.
This will help you maintain the health of your gums. Even though your new teeth cannot decay like your natural teeth, you still need to protect the rest of your mouth.
They are better for your jaw than dentures
Did you know that if you lose your teeth, your jaw can deteriorate? It's calledbone resorption, and it is the cause of the "sagged" appearance that many people get after losing a tooth.
Your teeth stabilize your jaw. When you chew, you put pressure on the jaw and strengthen it. Even with dentures, you have nothing to stabilize your jawbone.
The metal implants simulate tooth roots. Even if you don't have a full mouthful of mental anchors, you can minimize damage with the few anchors you have.
The big boost of confidence
The biggest benefit of all-on-4 dental implants is the huge confidence boost they give you. You'll be able to display a full, healthy smile again, possibly for the first time in years.
People often don't realize how much their teeth can affect their self-esteem until they lose them. You'll never have to hide your smile in photos or cover your mouth when laughing ever again. This benefit is priceless.
Disadvantages of All-on-4 Dental Implants
Dental implants are not for everyone. While they are quick and effective, they may not be the best option for you. It is always important to consult your oral surgeon and get all the details before committing.
Here are some potential downsides to the all-on-4 dental implant procedure.
Possible sticker shock
It's no secret that purchasing dental implants is expensive. However, because they are so durable, they may still be the most financially viable option for you.
If you have decided between dental implants and dentures, remember that you do not have to replace dental implants. If you can't afford implants right now, consider saving a small amount of money each month. You can alsoFinance your dental implantsand make low monthly payments for several years.
There are options for everyone in terms of price and payment plans.
Risks of poor oral hygiene
As previously mentioned, you should treat your dental implants as if they were natural teeth. Follow the same oral health routine you've always done and you should be fine.
With this in mind, there is a great risk of complications from poor dental health. These complications could resultDental implant failure.
Be sure to visit your dentist regularly and take good care of your teethdental hygiene, and avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. Don't do anything that would be "bad" for your "real" teeth.
Brief pain or tenderness
The implantation process is not painless, but it is not terrible either. After receiving your implants, you will experience some sensitivity. This is normal but can be worrying for some people.
You may have problems eating for a short time after the operation. Remember that metal anchors fuse with your jaw, so it makes sense that there would be pain or swelling.
The pain should subside completely within a few weeks. However, if this is not the case, talk to your oral surgeon about your options. They can assess your situation, make sure your implants are in good condition, and give you further advice on how to heal.
The potential for rejection or failure
As previously mentioned, most all-on-4 dental implants are successful. It is unlikely but possible that your implants will fail.
There can be several reasons for this. It is possible for your implants to fail because of your oral health. Remember that you must treat your implants like real teeth.
Sometimes it's just bad luck. If for some reason the implant does not fuse to the bone, you may need to replace the entire set. This is unlikely, but your oral surgeon can help.
Are All-on-4 Dental Implants Right for You?
All-on-4 dental implants are a fantastic option for anyone missing all or most of their teeth. They will protect your jaw and boost your confidence within weeks. They are a perfect long-term solution.
If you think all-on-4 dental implants are a good option for you, it's time to talk to a dentist. They can assess your situation and ensure you get a flawless smile.
At Montclair Dental Spa, we offer a variety of dental services (including all-on-4 dental implants) to help you achieve the smile you've always wanted. Contact us tomake an appointment for a consultationToday.