All-on-4 Dental Implant Questions

All-on-4 (a full arch restoration supported by 4 implants) is a common full mouth reconstruction method in recent years, primarily using 4 implants to support a full arch of fixed dentures. However, there are several important issues with this procedure that you should understand beforehand. First, seriously consider All-on-4 only if both your upper and lower teeth are almost unsalvageable. It can support a full arch of fixed dentures with 4 implants, offering benefits like fewer implants, potentially smaller surgical areas, and possibly reduced need for bone grafting. However, it's not suitable for everyone. Second, if your bone condition allows and you particularly value long-term durability, ask your dentist to evaluate All-on-6. While 6 implants can offer better support distribution, more implants don't necessarily mean greater durability; it still depends on bone quality, biting force, denture design, and hygiene. Third, if you still have healthy natural teeth, don't have them extracted just to get full mouth implants. Natural teeth that can be preserved should generally be evaluated for their worthiness of preservation; full mouth implant treatment is irreversible. Fourth, don't just look at the implant price when considering quotes. Ensure the cost includes extractions, bone grafting, temporary dentures, final dentures, anesthesia, follow-up appointments, and any future repair costs for broken screws, dentures, or implant issues.