This article has been updated on 03/23/2022 for greater accuracy and up-to-date information.
For individuals who have lost teeth resulting from a physical injury or infection, dental implants are the best replacement option. If you have multiple missing teeth that require more than one implant, your dentist will recommend a set of All On dental implants as the appropriate solution.
All-On-4 and All-On-6 dental implants are the most common option in this scenario. The All On method consists of surgically placing four or six titanium implants in a specific pattern and location as sturdy anchors for dental implants. This requires less surgery and faster healing time, which makes this form of cosmetic dentistry popular.
What are 'All On' Dental Implants?
When an individual is missing teeth, their jawbone breaks down and causes irreversible bone loss and damage to the jaw. Dental implants keep this from happening because they provide natural pressure to the jawbone during biting and chewing. This stimulates bone growth to keep it stable.
The All On approach works best for those who need multiple tooth replacements on the upper or lower jaw. All On 4 uses four dental implants, while All On 6 uses six dental implants.
This procedure must be performed with flawless execution in order to get a result that looks great and functions perfectly. Even the slightest mistake will cause the implementation of the implants to be off, causing the patient discomfort and speech impediments.
Teeth that shift or slip can interfere with speech, change your smile, and affect the way you eat, so it’s important to work with the best dental implant specialist in Beverly Hills.
Choosing Between All On 4 and All On 6
The primary determining factor whether you should get All-On-4 or All-On-6 dental implants will be how many teeth and roots you have left. Patients that are missing fewer of their teeth will typically get All On 4 dental implants, while those who have more teeth missing will opt for the All On 6 implants.
Your dentist will examine how much supporting bone structure remains, and review the health of your gums and your remaining teeth. They will also measure bone density and its quality, as well as the shape and protrusion of your sinus cavity to ensure the titanium rods will fit properly.
There are additional factors that determine which option is better for your individual case. The All On 6 method requires more bone and more bone strength than an All-on-4. Six implants better distribute the pressure between points when the jawbone is lacking in density or quantity. Your dentist uses photos, x-rays, and impressions to determine the best placement.
The Procedure
After a thorough examination, a review of your current health status, and looking through x-ray, and complete dental records, your dentist will recommend an appropriate treatment plan for you. They will provide you with a temporary bridge and order your dental implants that will fit your jawbone to be placed on the day of your surgery.
Multiple implants typically take about two to three hours to be installed under general anesthesia. Temporary dentures or bridges are usually fitted on the day of surgery. Your permanent dentures are ordered and installed about three months after when your mouth has fully healed.
Once the implants fuse to the jawbone, they will provide enough pressure to maintain your jaw’s structural integrity as daily chewing disperses pressure evenly across the implants and through to the jaw. Like your natural teeth, dental implants need regular dental checkups, but you can plan on these dental implants lasting a lifetime.
Conclusion
If you are missing teeth, consult with the best Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist to discuss whether All On 4 or All On 6 is the appropriate option for you based on your oral health. As compared to other methods, the adjustment time is short, and the success level is exceptionally high.