What is All-on-Four Treatment?

The All-on-Four treatment is a dental implant procedure where full arch prostheses are fixed onto four implants for patients who have experienced tooth loss. This method allows for a fixed prosthesis with fewer implants compared to traditional methods, achieved by placing two straight and two angled implants in the front and back regions of the jawbone. All-on-Four treatment can be applied to both upper and lower jaws, providing patients with the possibility of having fixed teeth on the same day.

Stages of All-on-Four Treatment

1. Examination and Planning: The dentist thoroughly examines the patient's oral and jaw structure and evaluates the bone structure through radiographic imaging. At this stage, it is determined whether the patient is suitable for All-on-Four treatment.
2. Surgical Placement: On the treatment day, under local anesthesia, the process of placing four implants into the jawbone is carried out. Two implants are placed in the front region of the jaw, and two implants are placed in the back region at specific angles. This ensures implant stability even in areas where bone density is lower.
3. Placement of Temporary Prostheses: Immediately after the implants are placed, temporary fixed prosthetic teeth are attached to the implants. These temporary prostheses are used throughout the healing period, ensuring that patients do not remain toothless after the procedure.
4. Healing Process: Generally, a healing period of 3-6 months is required for the implants to fuse with the jawbone. Temporary prostheses are used during this time.
5. Placement of Permanent Prostheses: Once the healing process is complete, permanent prostheses customized for the individual are placed onto the implants. These permanent prostheses closely resemble natural teeth both aesthetically and functionally.

Advantages of All-on-Four Treatment

• Quick Solution: Opportunity to have fixed teeth on the same day.
• Fewer Implants: Only four implants are sufficient for a full arch prosthesis.
• Stability and Durability: High stability is ensured with a specialized angulation technique.
• Aesthetic and Functional: Prostheses that resemble natural teeth in appearance and function.
• Shorter Healing Time: Shorter healing time compared to traditional implant treatments.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is All-on-Four treatment? All-on-Four treatment is a method where full arch prostheses are fixed onto four implants. It provides fixed teeth to edentulous patients using two straight and two tilted implants.

2. Who is suitable for All-on-Four treatment? It is suitable for patients with appropriate jawbone structure and overall health, who are fully edentulous or at risk of losing all their teeth.

3. Is All-on-Four treatment painful? The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is generally painless. There may be slight discomfort afterward, which can be managed with painkillers.

4. How long does All-on-Four treatment take? After the initial assessment and planning stage, the surgical placement is typically completed within a few hours. Temporary prostheses are attached on the same day.

5. What are the advantages of All-on-Four treatment? The advantages include the opportunity to have fixed teeth on the same day, fewer implants needed, high stability and durability, aesthetic and functional prostheses, and shorter healing time.

6. What should I pay attention to after All-on-Four treatment? It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and keep the gums around the implants clean after implant placement. Follow your dentist's instructions carefully.

7. How do temporary teeth look after All-on-Four treatment? Temporary prostheses mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, ensuring no aesthetic concerns immediately after the procedure.

8. When are permanent prostheses placed after All-on-Four treatment? After the healing process is complete and the implants have integrated with the jawbone, permanent prosthetic teeth are usually placed within 3-6 months.

9. What is the lifespan of All-on-Four treatment? With good care, All-on-Four implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can extend the lifespan of the implants.

10. What is the cost of All-on-Four treatment? The cost varies depending on your treatment plan and the materials used for implants and prostheses. Your dentist will provide you with a clear cost estimate after examination and evaluation.