November 30, 2024
Do you need to replace several lost teeth? When it comes to replacing an entire arch of missing teeth, both All-on-4® dental implants and implant-supported dentures offer excellent solutions. While both options utilize dental implants to provide a stable and functional replacement for your teeth, there are some key differences to consider.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the differences, let’s briefly define each treatment:
- All-on-4® Dental Implants: This innovative technique uses a minimum of four strategically placed dental implants to support a full-arch prosthetic bridge. This bridge is permanently fixed in place, providing a stable and natural-looking replacement for your upper or lower set of teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These are full dentures that attach to dental implants instead of relying on adhesives or suction to stay in place. They offer improved stability and function compared to traditional dentures.
Key Differences Between All-on-4® and Implant-Supported Dentures
While both options provide significant benefits over traditional dentures, several key factors distinguish them:
- Number of Implants and Prosthesis Type: The All-on-4® treatment concept utilizes a minimal number of implants (as few as four) to support a fixed bridge. This bridge is typically lighter than a full denture, allowing it to be securely supported by fewer implants. Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, may require more implants depending on the design and the patient’s jawbone density.
- Permanence: All-on-4® dental implants permanently attach the bridge to the implants, providing a stable and non-removable solution. Implant-supported dentures can be either permanently fixed or designed to snap onto the implants for easy removal. The removable option is often preferred for patients transitioning from traditional dentures, allowing them to gradually adapt to implant-supported prosthetics.
Learn More About All-on-4® Dental Implants
If you’re considering replacing an entire arch of missing teeth, All-on-4® dental implants offer a remarkable solution with numerous advantages. This innovative technique can restore your smile, improve your oral health, and enhance your quality of life.
At Keystone OMS, Dr. Clemenza is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with extensive experience in All-on-4® dental implant procedures. He will carefully evaluate your needs and guide you through the process, helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
To learn more about All-on-4® dental implants and discover if they are the right option for you, contact Keystone OMS at (724) 981-8884 or schedule a consultation online. We’re committed to providing personalized care and helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
