Losing a full set of teeth can affect more than just your smile. It can also change how you live your life. But for many Vancouver patients, All-on-4 dental implants have become the life-changing solution to restore their confidence, function, and comfort all at once.
What exactly is All-on-4?
If you've heard about dental implants, it is kind of like that but better! Instead of the traditional dental implants which replaces each missing tooth with a single implant, the All-on-4 procedure uses just four precisely placed implant posts to support a full denture. This means that All-on-Four is a more simple, efficient, and long-lasting treatment compared to other alternatives.
If you want to know more, we'll shed more light on the process in this read about how All-on-4 implants work, if they are right for your smile, and how our team at Arbutus Station Dental can help.
What are All-on-Four Dental Implants?
All-on-Four dental implants are a modern, permanent solution for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. Here's are key points that makes this system unique:
- Four implants, full smile – Instead of using multiple dental implants and crowns, this procedure needs only four titanium implant posts to anchor an entire arch of teeth.
- Implant-supported dentures – After the implants are fully healed with the bone, a custom-made full denture is attached to it. This will replace your missing teeth to restore your smile and bite.
In short, All-on-Four combines the security and long-term results of dental implants with the convenience of dentures to create a complete, natural-looking smile that feels just like your own again.
Benefits of All-on-Four Dental Implants
Choosing All-on-Four in Vancouver offers several advantages that make them a preferred option for patients who are missing a full set of teeth. And together, these benefits make All-on-Four one of the most efficient and rewarding options for full mouth restoration.
Quicker procedure and recovery
Because only four implants are placed at once, the All-on-four method is completed faster than traditional full-mouth implants. It is also less invasive which helps patients recover better and quicker.
More affordable than traditional implants
If you are missing a full set of teeth, replacing every tooth with an individual implant can be costly. With All-on-Four, fewer implants are needed, which means lower overall costs.
Stable, lifelike results
Unlike removable dentures which can slip and be uncomfortable over time, All-on-Four remains securely anchored into the jawbone. This gives your new teeth a natural look that allows you to speak and eat with confidence.
Preserves jawbone and facial structure
One of the consequences of missing teeth is bone loss, which can eventually lead to sagging facial muscles and an "aged" look. All-on-Four implants help avoid this problem by stimulating and preserving the jawbone for a more youthful appearance.
Long-term durability
All-on-4 dental implants are designed to last for decades, often a lifetime. With proper oral care and maintenance, you can expect your new smile to remain strong and beautiful for years to come.
What to Expect During the All-on-Four Treatment?
At Arbutus Station Dental, our All-on-Four implant procedure is done in five major steps. Here's what you can expect:
Step 1: Implant Consultation
Your implant journey will begin with a thorough consultation that includes taking X-rays and scans, reviewing your medical and dental history, and discussing your smile goals. From this, our team will design a personalized treatment plan and give you a clear understanding of your treatment timeline and costs.
Step 2: Placing the Implants
For a full arch implant, we will place two implants in the front and two angled on the back for maximum support. The entire procedure is often done under local anesthesia, but other sedation options are available in our office for extra comfort.
Step 3: Healing and Recovery
Over the next few months, your implants will fuse with your bone through a process called osseointegration. Our team will provide aftercare instructions and schedule check-ins to ensure everything is healing well.
Step 4: Adding the Abutments
When the implants are fully healed, small attachments called abutments are placed on each post. This will serve as the connector to keep your new set of teeth in place.
Step 5: Placing the Full Denture
And finally, we place your new full denture which should be customized to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Our team ensures every detail is to the tee, including bite and fit for your comfort.
From your first visit with our implant team to the moment we reveal your new smile, the All-on- Four process is designed for comfort, precision, and lasting confidence. If you're ready for your full-arch dental implant in Vancouver, Arbutus Station Dental is here to get you started!
Taking Care of Your All-on-Four Dental Implants
Just like your natural teeth, your new All-on-Four smile deserves regular, proper care to keep it looking and feeling its best for the longest time. The good news? Maintenance of All-on-4 implants is simple! Here are a few tips from our team:
Long-term oral hygiene care may slightly change
Toothbrushing is just as essential when taking care of your full-arch implant. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of your implant-supported denture. A water flosser can also help clean around the implant to keep your gums healthy.
Routine dental visits should still be prioritized
Many would assume that because implants and the implant-supported denture are artificial, regular visits to the dentist are no longer required. This is not the case. Bi-annual or annual visits (as recommended by your dentist) are done for professional cleaning and to check any problems with the dentures and make necessary adjustments.
Diet with implants
One of the best parts of having All-on-Four implants is that you can enjoy your favourite foods again, including many you have avoided before due to tooth loss. However, it is best to avoid biting extremely hard foods directly. Ensure balanced and mindful eating to keep your smile and overall health in great shape.
Sleeping with implants
Your All-on-Four teeth stay in place around the clock, even when you sleep. Unlike removable dentures, no need to remove them at night. No special cleaning required. Just maintain your usual bedtime routine by brushing before sleep and your smile will look clean every day.
Paying For Your Dental Implants
Investing in All-on-4 dental implants is a big step in your smile and future. Here are the most common ways patients in Vancouver may choose to pay for their treatment:
- Cash or card payment – Arbutus Station Dental accepts both cash and all major credit cards. Paying upfront allows you to complete your treatment seamlessly.
- Dental insurance – Not all insurance plans fully cover dental implants, so it is important to check your benefits with your provider before getting started. In some cases, your plan may cover parts of the procedure, such as the initial consultation. We are happy to help you review your insurance details so you can prepare ahead.
- Third-party financing – This option can also make payments more manageable. Our team can discuss with you the process for external financing and if it can be applicable for your treatment.
All-on-Four dental implants is one of the many ways to help you rediscover your smile and confidence even after you have lost all your teeth. At Arbutus Station Dental, we combine trusted expertise with genuine care to make your transformation with All-on-Four as comfortable and rewarding as possible. Book your initial consultation today to find out if this treatment is best for you and your smile goals!