All-on-4 dental implants are a popular solution for people who are missing a full arch of teeth and want to restore both function and appearance. All-on-4 dental implants St. Matthews procedure offers a permanent, stable, and aesthetically pleasing solution in much less time than traditional dental implant options. 

What Are All-on-4 Implants?

All-on-4 is a dental implant procedure designed to replace an entire arch of teeth using only four strategically placed implants. These implants serve as the foundation for a full set of artificial teeth. One of the significant advantages of the All-on-4 procedure is that it typically eliminates the need for bone grafting, making it less invasive than traditional implants. For most patients, the procedure can be completed in a single day, offering immediate results and a faster recovery.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning (1-2 Weeks)

The first step in the All-on-4 implant process is consulting a skilled dentist or oral surgeon. During this appointment, your dentist will assess your oral health, review your medical history, and take necessary scans such as X-rays or 3D imaging to evaluate your bone density and determine the best placement for the implants. This consultation usually takes about an hour and helps the dentist develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

In some cases, if gum disease or other oral issues need to be addressed, treatment will be required before proceeding. This may add a few weeks to the timeline, so working closely with your dentist is essential to ensure everything is in order before the surgery.

Step 2: The All-on-4 Surgery (1 Day)

One of the most significant advantages of the All-on-4 implant procedure is that it can usually be completed in just one day. On the day of your surgery, you will be given anesthesia—either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia—depending on your preferences and the complexity of your case.

The dentist or oral surgeon will place four titanium implants into your jawbone during the procedure. These implants are placed at specific angles to provide maximum stability and support for your new replacement teeth. One of the key benefits of All-on-4 is that you will receive a set of temporary teeth immediately after the implants are placed. This means you can leave the dental office with a full set of functional teeth, allowing you to eat and speak normally immediately.

Step 3: Healing and Osseointegration (3-6 Months)

While the All-on-4 procedure can be completed in one day, healing takes several months. This is when your body’s natural healing process occurs, and the titanium implants fuse with your jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. This crucial step helps ensure the implants remain securely anchored for years.

During this time, you’ll have follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your progress and ensure everything is healing correctly. It’s important to avoid chewing hard foods or applying pressure to the implant sites to ensure proper healing.

Step 4: Final Placement of Permanent Teeth (1-2 Weeks)

Once your implants have fully integrated with the bone, it’s time for the final step: the placement of your permanent teeth. Your dentist in St. Matthews will create a set of custom-made, durable, and aesthetically pleasing replacement teeth that will fit your implants. This process usually takes one to two weeks, as your dentist will need time to create the permanent teeth and ensure they fit comfortably.

Final Thoughts

The entire All-on-4 implant process typically takes around 4 to 6 months from start to finish. While the procedure can be completed in one day, the healing period required for osseointegration is essential to ensure the long-term success of the implants. With the expertise of your dentist and a commitment to proper care during the healing process, you can enjoy a fully restored smile and the ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

If you’re considering All-on-4 implants, consulting with a qualified dentist who can provide a detailed treatment plan and timeline based on your individual needs is essential. With the right care and the All-on-4 procedure, you can achieve a permanent solution to tooth loss that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.