All-On-4 Dental Implants in St. Louis, MO

Find Comfort and Support With All-On-4 Implant Dentures

Have you recently lost an entire arch of teeth? Are you ready to restore your smile to its former glory? Missing teeth can leave an impact on your quality of life. Your face can lose its structure, food choices become more restricted, and your self-confidence can take a hit. Fortunately, a comfortable, permanent solution exists with today’s dental technology. All-on-4 denture implants give you a beautiful smile whilst being functional and giving you much-needed support.

At St. Louis County Dental, our team has the experience and expertise to give you a smile that provides you with the independence you need to continue living your life.

What Are All-On-4 Denture Implants?

Like most dental implants, All-on-4 is a set of four implants used to recreate your top or bottom arch of teeth. This prevents your natural teeth from shifting and preserves the appearance of your facial structure. Without your teeth, your face can begin to sag and lose its natural shape.

In the past, patients had the choice between traditional dentures or full arch replacements. Traditional dentures can slide around and pinch the gums. Older full arch replacements required the placement of six to eight implants. With All-on-4, you can enjoy a permanent treatment with a faster recovery time.

All-On-4 Candidacy

You may be a perfect candidate for All-on-4 implants if you:

• Want to smile with confidence
• Be free of removable dentures, creams, adhesives, and repair
• Want a permanent solution to tooth loss
• Want independence in your food choices
• Wish to promote good oral health for your natural teethIf you’re ready to start your journey to a complete smile, schedule an appointment with our St. Louis dentist by calling our office at 314-332-1307. At your initial consultation, we’ll evaluate your oral health and determine if you’re an ideal candidate for all-on-4 implants.

The All-On-4 Procedure

The All-On-4 dental implant procedure is a sophisticated treatment designed to restore an entire arch of teeth. Here’s a detailed overview of the steps involved:

Consultation and Evaluation:

The journey begins with an initial consultation with your dental provider. They will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, including X-rays and possibly a 3D scan. This assessment helps determine if you’re a suitable candidate for All-On-4 implants.

Treatment Planning

Based on the evaluation, a personalized treatment plan is devised. This plan outlines the number of implants needed, their optimal placement, and the type of prosthetic that will be used.

Implant Placement

On the day of the procedure, a local anesthetic is administered to ensure you’re comfortable throughout. The dental surgeon then strategically places four implants into the jawbone. Two of these implants are typically inserted at an angle to maximize stability and support.

Temporary Prosthetic

While the implants integrate with the jawbone, a temporary set of prosthetic teeth is attached to the implants. These temporaries allow you to maintain normal oral function and aesthetics during the healing phase.

Healing and Integration

Throughout three to nine months, the implants undergo osseointegration – a natural process where they fuse with the surrounding bone. This integration provides a sturdy foundation for the final restoration.

Final Restoration:

Once the implants are fully integrated, the temporary prosthetic is replaced with a custom-crafted, permanent set of teeth. These final restorations are meticulously designed to look and function just like your natural teeth.

Aftercare and Maintenance

After your All-On-4 procedure, it’s crucial to follow these steps to ensure the longevity and health of your new smile:

Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Use non-abrasive products and follow your dentist’s recommendations for specialized brushes or tools.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine check-ups with your dentist. They will monitor the health of your implants, and the surrounding tissues, and provide professional cleanings to prevent any complications.

Dietary Considerations: Initially, stick to soft or liquid foods to avoid putting excess pressure on the implants. As you heal, gradually reintroduce a balanced diet. Avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage the prosthetic.

Avoid Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol: Both tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It’s advisable to quit smoking altogether.

Protective Measures: If you participate in contact sports or activities that could impact your mouth, consider wearing a protective mouthguard to safeguard your new smile.

Potential Risks and How to Handle Them

While All-On-4 implants are considered a highly successful and reliable treatment, there are some rare but potential risks and complications to be aware of:

Infection

Although rare, infections can occur at the implant site. Signs include swelling, pain, or discharge. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential.

Implant Failure

While uncommon, implants may fail to integrate with the bone. Factors like poor bone quality or inadequate healing time can contribute to this issue.

Nerve Damage

In rare cases, the nerves around the implant site may be affected, leading to temporary or, in extreme cases, permanent numbness or altered sensation.

Prosthetic Issues

Wear and tear on the prosthetic teeth can occur over time. Your dentist will monitor and address any necessary adjustments or replacements.

Sinus Complications (Upper Arch)

For upper arch treatments, there is a slight risk of sinus complications due to the proximity of the sinus cavity. Your surgeon will take precautions to minimize this risk.

It’s important to note that these risks are infrequent and can often be mitigated with proper care, regular check-ups, and adherence to post-operative instructions provided by your dental professional. Always consult with your dentist for any concerns or complications that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions