What Are the Differences Between All-on-4 Dental Implants and Traditional Implants?
When you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants can be a wonderful solution to permanently restore your beautiful smile while maintaining a natural appearance. If you need to have an entire arch of teeth replaced, the implant procedure can be performed using either traditional dental implants or a special method called All-on-4 dental implants. Here, we’ll take a closer look at All-on-4 dental implants and what differentiates them from standard implants.
What Are Traditional Dental Implants?
Traditional dental implants are screw-like posts that are used as artificial replacements for the root of a tooth. Traditional implants, which may be used to replace either one or multiple teeth, can be paired with various types of dental restorations. Traditional dental implants are often combined with dental crowns, bridges, and dentures. To properly install traditional dental implants, at least two separate procedures are required. These implants are inserted directly into the jaw bone, which makes them a permanent solution for missing teeth.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants refer to a special method of replacing teeth, which uses only four dental implants to support an entire upper or lower arch of dentures in the mouth. For reference, if you were to use traditional dental implants to replace an entire arch of teeth, at least six implants would be needed. Because All-on-4 implants are placed at an angle at the back of the jaw, they achieve maximum contact with the bone. This allows them to secure an entire arch of dentures with only four implants. Typically, All-on-4 dental implants are only paired with fixed dentures.
These are some of the benefits of the special All-on-4 dental implant method:
- Simpler treatment process than traditional dental implants
- Quick results
- You can eat whatever you want
- Permanent solution to a missing arch of teeth
- Improved oral health
- Easy to care for
- Very durable
What Is the Takeaway?
If you simply need to replace one or two missing teeth, traditional dental implants can serve as an excellent solution. However, if you need to replace one or two complete arches of teeth, All-on-4 dental implants may very well be the best choice. If you’re interested in either of these procedures, Cincinnati Dentist, Dr. Tara Hardin will be happy to examine your teeth and help you decide on the most effective treatment option. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment, simply contact our offices today!
