FAQ: What is the “All On 4?”
Answer: The “All On 4” is a dental implant technique generally recommended to patients who have either already lost all of their original adult teeth or are on the verge of doing so. The All On 4 offers a fixed and non-removable teeth replacement solution that is far more sophisticated and advantageous than traditional removable dentures.
The procedure itself involves the precise placement of four dental implants in regions of the jaw that are naturally bulky and more resistant to atrophy (see image above, courtesy of Nobel Biocare). The implants are then used to provide a strong and stable platform for a custom bridge that is expertly fabricated to function, look and feel like a complete set of real teeth.
The strategic arrangement of the implants almost always saves Dr. Wolcott from having to perform an additional, painful and costly surgery sometimes needed for patients who have lost bone. This procedure is called bone grafting.
FAQ: Does it hurt to have the “All On 4” done?
Answer: Here at All On Implants, we prioritize the comfort of our patients and so we take all necessary measures to keep you as comfortable and relaxed during your procedures as possible. This enables Dr. Wolcott to perform the procedure safely and in one visit.
Once the anesthesia wears off (in about 4 hours), you may experience some localized discomfort and sensitivity around the implant sites, but this is easily remedied with the over-the-counter pain medications like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen. Most patients stop taking pain relievers two days after their procedure quite simply because they feel that they don’t need them anymore!
If you suffer from a phobia of the dentist or dental treatment, speak to Dr. Wolcott about possibly receiving a gentle sedative prior to your appointment.
FAQ: What is the Success rate of the “All-On-4” Procedure?
Answer: The “All-On-4” has a fantastic success rate of 95% over a period of 20 years without any significant bone loss in the jaw. This means that after a decade, 95% of patients are still enjoying the full function of their beautiful new teeth without any problem!
FAQ: How might I minimize the risk of implant failure following surgery?
Answer: It is imperative that you follow Dr. Wolcott’s instructions for care and maintenance following your surgery. If you jump straight back into a hectic lifestyle, strenuous exercise and your normal diet, you could risk overloading your implants, leading to failure. Smoking and heavy drinking also greatly increase the risk of implant failure.
You should spend a few days taking it easy after surgery so that your body gets a good start to healing. You’ll need to eat a diet of soft foods, which will give your jawbone time to bond to the surface of the implants. Additionally, you should maintain a high standard of oral hygiene so as to minimize the risk of peri implantitis (post-operative infection).
If you follow these instructions and those provided to you by your dentist, you should enjoy a full and speedy recovery!
FAQ: Who is the ideal candidate for “All-On-4” dental implants?
Answer: The ideal candidate for this procedure is in good general health and has sufficient volume in his/her jawbone to support implants. Having said this, Dr. Wolcott regularly works with patients who are not regarded as “ideal” candidates by some… however, for every problem there is a creative solution and the right treatment plan!
FAQ: Will I need to come back for follow-up appointments once I’ve had new teeth placed with the “All-On-4” method?
Answer: You will be required to return for a follow-up appointment about two weeks after your surgery so that Dr. Wolcott can ensure your gums and jawbones are healing nicely. He will then clean and reattach your temporary bridge. We then ask that you return again for a final follow-up appointment two to three months after your procedure. Your jawbone health, oral hygiene and implant healing will be fully assessed and if you have made a full recovery, your temporary bridge will be replaced with a permanent prosthesis, which is made from much stronger materials.
FAQ: How many days should I take off from work?
Answer: Some patients spend three or four days resting after the procedure; others return to work the very next day! The amount of time you’d like to spend in recovery really depends upon the individual’s constitution and the extent to which they experience discomfort. Every patient is different, but Dr. Wolcott generally recommends that you book yourself off for at least two days. This will give you a chance to get used to your new teeth and how to look after them, as well as time for any initial sensitivity to subside.
FAQ: Will I be able to eat normally with my new teeth?
Answer: Absolutely! The dental bridge used in the “All-On-4” is fabricated from exceptionally strong and durable materials so as to allow patients to eat all their favorite foods! Initially, however, while your jaw is healing, you will need to follow a diet of softer foods and if you want your new set of teeth to last you a long time, it is recommended that you avoid really hard and crunchy treats, such as hard candies and ice.
FAQ: How do I clean my new teeth?
Answer: The All-On-4 bridge is cleaned and maintained very similarly to natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly and use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. You must also keep regularly scheduled appointments with Dr. Wolcott to get your bridge cleaned professionally.
FAQ: Does All On Implants really offer a free initial dental implants screening?
Answer: Yes we do! If you have lost one or more or all of your original adult teeth and want to find out whether dental implants would be the right solution for you, you can book a complimentary screening! This includes a full clinical examination and treatment plan with absolutely no obligation to move forward. In other words, you only start paying when you start receiving treatment.
Call All On Implants
If your question or concern isn’t addressed here, fill out the form on our Contact Us page and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can call our office directly at 301.850.2356 (local) or 888.811.7561 (toll free) to speak with us or arrange a free initial screening.