What’s an All-on-4?

What is an All-on-4?

The All-on-4 is a dental implant solution for patients who are missing most or all of their teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on top of the gums, the All-on-4 system uses four strategically placed dental implants to support a full arch of artificial teeth. This solution is ideal for patients who want a permanent, stable, and natural-looking replacement for their missing teeth.

The All-on-4 technique is often preferred for patients who are not candidates for traditional implants due to bone loss in the jaw. By placing the implants at specific angles, the procedure can often eliminate the need for bone grafts, making the process less invasive and quicker compared to traditional implant placement.

How Does the All-on-4 Work?

The process of getting an All-on-4 involves several key steps, which are designed to make your treatment efficient and effective. Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment
   The first step is to consult with a dental professional, such as Dr. Zachary Papadakis, who will assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if All-on-4 implants are the right choice for you. X-rays and 3D imaging may be used to examine the bone structure of your jaw.
2. Implant Placement
   During the procedure, four dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. The implants are strategically positioned at angles to ensure maximum support and stability. This step typically takes a few hours, and patients are often under local anesthesia or sedation.
3. Temporary Prosthesis
   After the implants are placed, a temporary set of teeth is attached to the implants so that you can leave the office with a functional smile. This allows you to continue with your daily activities while your implants heal.
4. Healing and Osseointegration
   Over the next few months, the implants fuse with the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. This provides a stable foundation for the final prosthesis. During this time, you’ll return for check-ups to ensure everything is healing properly.
5. Final Prosthesis
   Once your implants have fully integrated with the bone, your final, permanent set of artificial teeth is custom-made and placed on the implants. These teeth are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, giving you a full, beautiful smile.
   
   

Why Choose All-on-4?

There are many reasons why patients opt for the All-on-4 dental implant procedure. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Permanent Solution
   Unlike traditional dentures that need to be replaced every few years, All-on-4 implants provide a long-term, permanent solution. Once the implants have fused with the jawbone, your new teeth are stable and secure, providing a more natural feel and function.
2. No Need for Bone Grafts
   One of the biggest advantages of the All-on-4 system is that it often eliminates the need for bone grafts. The implants are placed at specific angles to make the most of the existing bone, even in patients with bone loss.
3. Quick Recovery
   Because fewer implants are placed compared to traditional dental implants, the recovery time for the All-on-4 procedure is typically faster. Patients often return to normal activities within a few days to a week.
4. Improved Confidence
   Missing teeth can affect your self-esteem and overall confidence. The All-on-4 system restores your smile, allowing you to speak, eat, and smile confidently again.
5. Better Functionality than Dentures
   Traditional dentures can slip or shift, causing discomfort and difficulty when eating or speaking. With All-on-4 implants, your teeth are securely attached to the implants, providing better function and comfort.
   
   

Is All-on-4 Right for You?

If you're missing most or all of your teeth, the All-on-4 dental implant procedure could be an excellent solution for you. However, not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Papadakis will assess your oral health, jawbone structure, and overall health to determine if All-on-4 is the best option for you.

Some factors that may affect your candidacy include:

• Adequate bone density to support the implants (though the All-on-4 procedure can often be performed without bone grafting).
• Overall health, including the ability to undergo surgery and healing.
• A desire for a permanent, functional, and aesthetic solution to missing teeth.
  
  

All-on-4 in New York City

At Zachary Papadakis DDS & Associates, we specialize in All-on-4 dental implants and are committed to restoring your smile and improving your quality of life. If you’re missing teeth and want to explore the All-on-4 procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Papadakis to learn more.

We understand that the process of restoring your smile is a big decision, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. From initial consultations to the final placement of your new teeth, we offer personalized care that ensures a successful outcome.

Contact Us Today
To find out if All-on-4 is right for you, contact Zachary Papadakis DDS & Associates today. Call us at (212) 689-7199 to schedule your consultation, or book an appointment online. We look forward to helping you restore your smile with the latest in dental implant technology.