It is estimated that there are 178 million Americans who are missing at least one tooth, and at least 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. But thanks to the always advancing technology of dental implants, it’s not only possible to replace those missing teeth—you can actually replace all of the teeth on the top or the bottom in just four pieces with all-on-4 dental implants. Let’s learn more about what these dental implants are, what their benefits are, and whether or not there is any risk.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
If you’ve never had a dental implant before, here’s how it works: An implant is a small titanium screw that essentially replaces the root of a missing tooth on the jawbone. The process of putting in an implant includes surgery. Once the implant is placed, then a crown will be attached that will give you the realistic look of a tooth.
What is so remarkable about all-on-4 dental implants is you can replace the entire row of teeth on the top or bottom in just four pieces instead of replacing each individual tooth. These dental implants work just like regular ones—they are made of titanium and fuse to the jawbone. This will ensure that there is a strong foundation for your new teeth.
The Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants
One of the most immediate benefits of all-on-4 dental implants is that you don’t have to go through several different surgeries in order to gain a full set of teeth. All-on-4 dental implants also give you a better smile, improved oral health care, and a more youthful facial structure.
These dental implants also make a better option than dentures because they give you the confidence to bite into things without worrying your dentures will slip and they aren’t associated with any of the bone loss that dentures can cause. Your jawbone actually changes shape when the teeth are extracted and you start to use dentures, becoming flattered and causing the bone not to be stimulated.
The Risks of All-on-4 Dental Implants
Like any other medical procedure, there are risks associated with all-on-4 dental implants. Because it is a surgery, there are always risks present during the actual surgical procedure. There is also a chance that the dental implants fail to integrate, that they fail, or that there is difficulty adapting to restorations.
Are you interested in learning more about all-on-4 dental implants, or simply have another question about dental care? Call Pearl Shine Dental at 281-477-7200 to schedule an appointment today!