Missing teeth aren’t just a cosmetic issue. If you have damaged or missing teeth, you may struggle to chew and enjoy your food or feel self-conscious whenever you smile. Don’t let missing teeth control your life any longer. Now, more than ever, you have options available for treating missing and damaged teeth. Dental implants are a popular choice but can be expensive and time-consuming, especially when full arch replacement is needed. All-On-4 is another option available for full mouth teeth replacement. Is All-On-4 right for you? Learn more about this treatment below and then call our offices for personalized advice about the best restorative dentistry options for your situation.

What Is All-On-4?

For patients with extensive dental restoration needs, All-On-4 offers full arch replacement with fewer dental implants. This makes it more affordable and achievable to use dental implants for replacing a considerable number of teeth. A full arch dental restoration is created and then attached to the jaw using four or more implants. The restoration is fixed, is not removable, and can restore both function and appearance to the treated arch. At Hill Country Oral Surgery we like to call this procedure Full Arch Dental Rehabilitation.

Your treatment will be customized to your needs. Many patients only require four implants to support a full arch of teeth, but more implants may be needed. Placing sufficient implants to properly support the restoration is essential for long-lasting results following this procedure.

How Long Does the Extraction and Replacement Process Take?

You may have heard the term “Teeth in a Day” referring to the dental implant process. This term can be a little deceptive and doesn’t accurately describe the full process for implants or Full Arch Dental Rehabilitation. It is true that many patients will be able to remove and temporarily replace their teeth in a single day, but additional appointments and a recovery period will be needed before the full restoration is complete.

When we can, we perform any needed extractions and place dental implants and a temporary restoration in one day. During this initial surgical appointment, we’ll secure a temporary set of teeth into the implants. These temporary teeth will be fixed in place and you will not be able to remove them yourself. These temporary teeth allow you to “test drive” your new smile. Once you’ve healed from surgery, you’ll be able to eat and use these teeth, evaluating their function and appearance. We’ll meet with you before fabricating your permanent teeth to discuss any changes you would like to make. This ensures that your final teeth will meet your specific needs and desires.

Unfortunately, not every patient is a good candidate for removal and replacement in a single day. Sometimes there are other structures in the way that must be treated prior to placing implants. Some patients have been without their teeth for many years and require bone or gum grafting. Many factors affect the placement and timing of implants.

From start to finish, the full restoration process can take several months as you prepare for your initial surgery, recover from surgery, and wait for the final placement of your permanent teeth. Teeth in a day isn’t always possible, but we’re creating something lasting. It may take longer than a day, but you’ll hopefully enjoy your new smile for the rest of your life. Take the time to do things right.

Is All-On-4 Right for Me?

All-On-4 dental restoration makes full arch restoration a possibility for many patients that would be unable to afford the procedure otherwise. Come see us and learn more about Full Arch Dental Rehabilitation if:

• You are unable to eat and enjoy your favorite foods due to missing or damaged teeth.
• You have extensive dental damage on one or both arches.
• You are self-conscious about the appearance of your smile.

Come see us to explore your dental restoration options including All-On-4 and dental implants. The best way to determine if you’re a candidate for this procedure is to come meet with us. After an exam, we can assess your needs and make treatment recommendations. Each patient is different and a consultation is the only way to determine what your specific needs are.

Are missing or damaged teeth running your life? Get back in control of what you eat and when you smile with dental implants. Our Full Arch Dental Rehabilitation process has allowed many patients to restore their smile using fewer implants. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn more.