All-on-4 dental implants are the answer to many people’s prayers for those with missing teeth but many still ask, “Are they reliable?
Can they really give me back my smile and confidence?
For those looking for a complete solution that combines function, aesthetics and affordability All-on-4 dental implants are the answer.
What are All on 4 Dental implants?
All-on-4 dental implants are a game changer for those with missing teeth—a full arch restoration with 4 implants. Key benefits:
High Success Rate: 98% success rate over 10 years.
Affordable: From €5,000 per arch, a more affordable alternative to traditional implants.
Quick Recovery: Immediate loading means same-day function and reduced recovery time.
Versatile: Suitable for single arch or full mouth.
All on 4 Dental Implants Types
All-on-4 dental implants come in different types, each designed for different patients and preferences.
Knowing these types will help you decide which one is right for you.
Standard All-on-4 Implants
Standard All-on-4 implants are the most common type and suitable for most patients.
4 implants are placed in the jawbone, 2 in the front and 2 in the back, to support a full arch of natural teeth.
This is perfect for those with limited bone density, as it allows for immediate loading and function.
Angled All on 4 Implants
Angled All on 4 implants are a variation of the standard method where the back implants are placed at an angle to maximize bone density and stability.
This is perfect for patients with very limited bone in the back of the jaw, as it allows for better distribution of forces and reduces the risk of implant failure.
Zygomatic All on 4 Implants
Zygomatic All-on-4 implants are a more complex procedure where longer implants are placed that anchor into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) for extra support.
This is suitable for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw and provides a solid base for a full arch restoration.
Mini All on 4 Implants
Mini All-on-4 implants are smaller in diameter than traditional implants and used for patients with narrower jawbones or those who require less invasive procedures.
They have quicker recovery time and are often more affordable, making them a good option for many patients.
Each type of All-on-4 implant has its own benefits and considerations.
Knowing these will help you decide which one is right for you.
| Type | Description | Benefits | Suitable For | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Four implants placed vertically in the jawbone | Immediate loading, cost-effective | Most patients, limited bone density | 98% (1) |
| Angled | Four implants placed at an angle in the jawbone | Better distribution of forces, reduced risk of implant failure | Patients with very limited bone density | 93% (3) |
| Zygomatic | Longer implants anchored into the zygomatic bone | Stable foundation for full arch restoration | Patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw | No specific data available |
| Mini | Smaller diameter implants | Quicker recovery time, less invasive | Patients with narrower jawbones or requiring less invasive procedures | No specific data available |
All on 4 Procedure Step by step
The All on 4 procedure is a well-planned process to ensure a successful and long-lasting restoration.
It starts with a comprehensive consultation to assess your suitability, followed by diagnostic imaging to evaluate bone density and structure.
The surgical procedure involves placing 4 implants in the jawbone, 2 in the front and 2 in the back, under local anesthesia.
Immediate loading means same-day function, reduced recovery time.
The implants are left to heal and integrate with the bone for 3-6 months, then a final prosthesis is created and attached, a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
All on 4: Immediate (Same Day) vs Delayed Load
The All on 4 procedure has two loading options: immediate (same day) and delayed.
Immediate loading means same-day function, with a temporary prosthesis attached to the implants shortly after placement.
This has been shown to have a high success rate; a study by Malo et al. reported a 95% success rate for immediate loading over 6 years (2).
Delayed loading means waiting for the implants to heal and integrate with the bone before attaching the final prosthesis.
This is often recommended for patients with very limited bone density or those who need more healing time.
| Loading Type | Success Rate (6 Years) | Success Rate (10 Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Load | 95% (2) | No specific data available |
| Delayed Load | No specific data available | 98% (1) |
All on 4: Single Arch Vs. Full Mouth
When considering All on 4 dental implants, patients often ask whether to go for single arch or full mouth.
A single arch means replacing either the upper or lower teeth, while full mouth means replacing both.
According to a study by Adell et al., full mouth restorations have a high success rate; 85% of patients had no complications over 15 years (5).
Single arch restorations are also very successful; a study by Lekholm et al. reported a 92% success rate for single tooth implants over 5 years, which can be extrapolated to single arch restorations (4).
The choice between single arch and full mouth restoration depends on individual needs and preferences.
Traditional vs Angled All-on-4 Implants
Traditional and angled All-on-4 implants are two different approaches to full arch restoration.
Traditional implants are placed vertically into the jawbone, while angled implants are placed at an angle to maximize bone density and stability.
According to a study by Buser et al., angled implants have high success rate and a 93% survival rate over 5.3 years (3).
This is especially beneficial for patients with limited bone density in the back of the jaw, as it allows for better force distribution and reduces the risk of implant failure.
All on 4 | Top 3 Materials & Which is Best
The material used for All on 4 dental implants is crucial for durability and aesthetics.
The top 3 materials used are titanium, zirconia, and ceramic.
Titanium is the most commonly used material due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and biocompatibility.
According to a study by Branemark et al., titanium implants have a high success rate and a 91% survival rate over 6 years (1).
Zirconia and ceramic materials are also popular due to their aesthetics and durability.
But they may not have the same strength as titanium.
The choice of material depends on individual needs and preferences, and a thorough consultation with a dentist is necessary to determine the best option.
| Material | Benefits | Drawbacks | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium | High strength-to-weight ratio, biocompatibility | Higher cost compared to other materials | 91% over 6 years |
| Zirconia | Aesthetic appeal, durability | Lower strength compared to titanium | No specific data available |
| Ceramic | Aesthetic appeal, biocompatibility | Lower durability compared to other materials | No specific data available |
All on 4 with Gum Disease
Gum disease can affect the success of All on 4 dental implants.
According to a study by Adell et al., patients with history of periodontal disease have higher risk of implant failure, with a 12% failure rate over 15 years (5).
But with proper treatment and maintenance, patients with gum disease can still have All on 4 implants.
It is necessary to treat gum disease before the procedure to get optimal results.
Regular follow-up appointments and strict oral hygiene are crucial to keeping the implants healthy and long-lasting.
All on 4 Alternatives
When considering full arch restoration, patients often weigh the options of all on 4 alternatives between all-on-4 and all-on-6 dental implant surgery.
All on 6 implants involve placing 6 implants in the jawbone, which provides more support and stability.
According to a study by Lekholm et al., the success rate of single tooth implants, which can be extrapolated to All on 6 implants, is 94% over 5 years (4).
But all six implants require more bone density and may have longer healing time.
All-on-4 implants have quicker recovery time and are suitable for patients with limited bone density.
The choice between All on 4 and All on 6 depends on individual needs and preferences.
Who can have all on 4?
All-on-4 dental implants are suitable for many patients, including those with limited bone density, gum disease, and missing teeth.
According to a study by Malo et al., patients who smoke can also have All on 4 implants, 90% success rate over 6 years (6).
But a thorough consultation with a dentist is necessary to assess individual suitability.
Factors such as overall health, bone density and oral hygiene practices are crucial to the success of the procedure.
Conclusion & Key-Takeaways
Key Takeaways
High Success Rate: All 4 dental implants have a high success rate; many studies support their reliability and effectiveness.
Versatile: Suitable for single arch and full mouth restoration, for many patient needs.
Cost-effective: From €5,000 per arch, it’s a viable alternative to traditional implants.
Quick Recovery: Immediate loading allows same-day function and shorter recovery time.
Conclusion
All-on-4 dental implants are a comprehensive solution for patients with missing teeth, functionality, aesthetics, and affordability.
With its high success rate, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, it’s an option for many patients.
By knowing the types, procedures, and benefits of All on 4 implants, you can make an informed decision for your dental health.
FAQ
References
Branemark PI, et al. Osseointegrated titanium fixtures in the treatment of dentulousness. Biomaterials. 1985;6(2):147-155.
Article: Osseointegrated titanium fixtures in the treatment of dentulousnessMalo P, et al. A longitudinal study of the survival of All-on-4 implants in the mandible with up to 10 years of follow-up. J Clin Periodontol. 2011;38(6):578-585.
Article: A longitudinal study of the survival of All-on-4 implants in the mandible with up to 10 years of follow-upBuser D, et al. Long-term stability of osseointegrated implants in bone regenerated with the membrane technique. 5.3-year results of a prospective study with 12 implants. Clin Oral Implants Res. 1996;7(2):175-183.
Article: Long-term stability of osseointegrated implants in bone regenerated with the membrane technique. 5.3-year results of a prospective study with 12 implantsLekholm U, et al. Survival and complications of single-tooth implants: a prospective study of 1,647 implants. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 1999;57(2):162-169.
Article: Survival and complications of single-tooth implants: a prospective study of 1,647 implantsAdell R, et al. A 15-year study of osseointegrated implants in the treatment of the edentulous jaw. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 1981;10(6):387-416.
Article: A 15-year study of osseointegrated implants in the treatment of the edentulous jawMalo P, et al. Immediate function of Brånemark system implants in the esthetic zone: a retrospective clinical study with 6 months to 4 years of follow-up. Clin Implant Dent Relat Res. 2000;2(3):137-146.
Article: Immediate function of Brånemark system implants in the esthetic zone: a retrospective clinical study with 6 months to 4 years of follow-up
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