All on 4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 dental implants have offered many individuals benefits that have changed their lives in a positive way. When the procedure is done well, it is safe. However, before you decide if All-on-4 implants are the right option for you, you need to know what to expect. Also, you need to work closely with an experienced dental professional.
As the All-on-4 procedure grows in popularity, several issues have come up. Part of your research should include knowing what risks are associated with having using these implants.
Top Risks to Consider with All-on-4 Implants
It is likely that you have heard about All-on-4 implants. However, you may not fully understand what they are or how they can benefit you. For example, you may wonder if they can help you replace missing teeth or fix damaged teeth.
A Quick Look at All-on-4 Implants
Before we look closer at the risks associated with All-on-4 dental implants, we first have to understand what they are. This dental implant can completely replace the full arch of teeth in one shot. This means that you can have your smile completely restored using just one procedure.
The dentist will remove all the teeth in one section and then a full mouth bridge is applied in that area. It is possible for patients to have both the top and bottom teeth replaced in one visit.
Another option is All-on-6 implants. The decision to use this option is something that you will need to consider with your dentist. In most cases, All-on-4 is a quick procedure and does not require bone grafting.
Reasons All-on-4 Implants Are Becoming So Popular
When possible, dentists are going to try to restore your teeth in order to give you the most health the benefits. However, when the only option is to replace your teeth, All-on-4 implants may be recommended. Here are the top benefits that are associated with All-on-4 implants.
- Lower costs because fewer implants are installed
- Less pain because the whole thing is done during one procedure
- Little down time because the procedure is less invasive
- Less invasive because bone grafting is not likely
- Long-lasting and looks natural
For many people, All-on-4 is the right option. It offers many benefits. However, looking at the risks is also important. This will help you and your dentist make critical decisions before installing the implants.
A Deeper Look at the Risks Associated with All-on-4 Implants
It is important to mention again that All-on-4 implants offer many individuals a simple and easily solution to replacing missing teeth. However, you need to consider the following risks when making your decision.
Risks Associated with Using Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia you are offered will depend on many factors, including what your dentist has access to. For example, some dentists offer their clients anesthesia that allows them to sleep during the procedure. There is also the option of using a mild anesthesia, which is often a good option for individuals who do not feel nervous about having the procedure done. A twilight level is also available, which sits right between a mild anesthesia and something that will make a person sleep during the procedure.
When deciding on the right option for you, there are a couple of things that you will need to consider. You and your dentist should discuss how you can use the least amount of anesthesia possible to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Keep in mind that that the less anesthesia you use, the faster your recovery will be. You will also need to look at any pre-existing medical conditions. These may make some forms of anesthesia less desirable than others. Also, look at any past reactions you have had when using anesthesia.
Be sure that you take a conversation about anesthesia with your dentist seriously. Problems with anesthesia are rare. However, it is important for you to be on the same page with your dentist in case extra care is needed.
Implant Failure
Dealing with implant failure can be frustrating for both you and your dentist. It occurs with about five percent of patients who have All-on-4 implants installed. Implant failure occurs when the implant does not fuse properly with the bone. In most cases, it is not clear why this happens. Many are able to address the problem by having a new implant installed.
Since it is not always clear why implant failure occurs, there is little you or your dentist can do to prevent it from happening. Be sure to follow all suggestions offered by your dentist before having the procedure done. This would include avoiding smoking, practicing good oral hygiene, and eating foods that are soft.
Infection Risks
Your dentist will do everything possible to minimize your risk of infection. However, it is good to understand that infections do occur. A common infection seen with All-on-4 implants is peri-implantitis.
Recognizing an infection quickly is key in resolving the problem. Watch for the following signs after having All-on-4 implants installed.
- Bad breath
- Implants that are loose
- Inflamed gums around the implant
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Fever
- Pus or blood coming from the gums
Again, follow all the instructions provided by your dentist when caring for your implants after having them installed. Avoid smoking, follow specific instructions to care for the implants and your overall oral hygiene, and avoid drinking alcohol. Taking these steps will lower your risk of infection.
Work with an Experienced Houston Prosthodontist
One of the most critical decisions you will make when deciding if All-on-4 implants are right for you has to do with a prosthodontist who performs the procedure. In order to minimize risks associated with these implants, be sure to choose a dentist who offers this as a specialized service. When speaking with the dentist, be honest and thorough when it comes to any medical concerns you have. Be sure to discuss any past surgeries you have had or negative reactions you have had to anesthesia or medications.
You may want to ask us to look at before and after photographs of some of our prior patients who have had All-on-4 implants.
Schedule a Full Evaluation
Before deciding if All-on-4 implants are right for you, you need to have a full evaluation performed. This will give you the opportunity to find out what the procedure is like, find out how long it will take to complete, and ask questions about the risks. We are going to look at your overall oral health, your overall physical health, and the health of your dental bones. The more information we have, the fewer the risks you will be exposed to.
The specialists at Northwest Houston Prosthodontics are happy to answer any questions you have about All-on-4 implants. Contact us today to learn more.