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If you need to replace multiple missing teeth, All on 4 dental implants may be a more suitable approach for you than traditional, individually-placed dental implants. However, both options can be great, functional solution, and the choice between the two will ultimately come down to your needs.
Both options are designed to replace missing teeth with a stable solution, but they differ in how they are placed, how many implants are needed, and other factors that we will go over in this blog.
To discuss All on 4 dental implants and our other implant options at Oasis Dental Studio, you are welcome to contact our team in the Gold Coast, Brisbane or Pottsville.
Understanding the difference between All on 4 and traditional implants
Before we get into the differences between each method in finer detail, let’s first outline how each procedure differs in its approach to missing teeth.
Traditional implants involve placing individual implants into the jawbone, typically requiring one implant per missing tooth – unless a bridge is used. This method provides a strong foundation, but can require multiple implants per arch and may need bone grafting if the jawbone isn’t strong enough. The treatment process usually takes several months, as the implants need time to integrate with the bone before the final restorations can be attached.
All on 4 dental implants take a different approach, using just four implants to support a full arch of teeth. The implants are strategically placed, with two positioned at an angle in the back of the jaw to maximise contact with available bone. This often removes the need for bone grafting, making it a suitable option for patients with lower bone density – however, bone grafting can still sometimes be necessary.
Since the All on 4 implants can replace multiple missing teeth at once, it can be a more suitable option for you if you need full arch support. However, if you only need to replace one or two missing teeth, traditional implants will be the most suitable choice.
What to expect for each treatment process
Each procedure’s process will begin with a consultation and planning phase, where digital imaging is used to assess the jawbone and determine the best placement for the implants. If bone grafting is needed, this process will then need to be completed before the implants are placed.
Once the implants are placed – whether they are traditional or All on 4 implants – the jawbone needs time to fuse with them, which typically takes a few months. After this healing period, the final prosthetic teeth can be attached to the implants.
The difference between each treatment process is that individually-placed implants will only place an implant in the location of the singular missing tooth, while All on 4 will involve a placement of four implants in different locations of the jaw.
If you are replacing multiple teeth, All on 4 will be a much faster process, which is why it is often favoured over the traditional approach in these circumstances.
The difference between each recovery and healing process
Recovery will be part of both types of procedure, requiring you to care for your oral health and have a follow-up appointment to ensure that the implant process was successful.
Healing after traditional implants depends on the number of implants placed and whether bone grafting was required. If grafting was performed, the healing process will take a little longer, as the bone needs to integrate before the implants can
be placed. The full treatment timeline can range from several months to over a year in some cases. After the implants have fused with the bone, the final teeth can be attached, completing the process.
If you are replacing multiple teeth with All on 4 dental implants instead of taking the traditional approach, recovery tends to be quicker, due to fewer implants being placed.
Some swelling and discomfort can be expected in the first few days, and a soft food diet is usually recommended during the initial healing phase. After either procedure, you’ll be given some personalised recovery instructions to follow that will help you prevent any complications like infection, and help you manage any discomfort.
Comparing the long-term maintenance and durability of each option
Both All on 4 dental implants and traditional implants are designed to be long-term solutions, but maintenance is important to ensure that they remain in good condition.
Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and following any specific care instructions will help you to maintain the quality of your implants. We can provide you with further advice on how to care for your new teeth during your consultation.
Since we use high quality dental implants at Oasis Dental Studio, both options will have great long-term durability. Each option provides you with stable, strong replacement teeth, and as long as you follow your care instructions in the longer-term, you should be able to maintain the integrity of your implants for many years.
Making your choice between All on 4 and traditional implants
Ultimately, your choice will depend on individual factors, including the condition of your jawbone, the number of missing teeth you have, and your personal treatment goals.
Those with significant bone loss may find All on 4 dental implants a more suitable option, as they can often be placed without the need for grafting. Traditional implants can be the better option if you don’t have many teeth to replace, as there won’t be a need for the full restoration that All on 4 is designed to achieve.
At Oasis Dental Studio, we can conduct a detailed assessment and use digital imaging to assess the jawbone and other important factors, which will help us to determine the approach that can best align with your needs. We will then establish a treatment plan that outlines how your chosen treatment method will be performed.
Individual and All on 4 Dental Implants at Oasis Dental Studio in the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Pottsville
Whether you need individually-placed dental implants or will opt for the All on 4 method to replace multiple missing teeth, Oasis Dental Studio provides high-quality care for both options.
To have a thorough dental assessment, discuss your personal needs and expectations and talk about the finer details of a tailored treatment plan, please get in touch with our team at your most convenient location!
