How Long Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Last?
Tooth loss is very common these days. Around 36 million Americans are without teeth, while 120 million Americans are missing one or more than one tooth. With the advancements in dentistry, many tooth replacement options are available, including All-on-4 Dental Implants. They offer a natural feel and work just like your natural teeth. But How long do All-on-4 dental implants last? Keep on reading to find out more about All-on-4 Dental Implants.
What is an All-on-4 Dental Implant?
The All-on 4 Dental Implant provides an excellent solution for those with missing teeth. It involves using four dental implant posts placed in the jawbone. This strategic placement sometimes removes the need for bone grafting and makes it a suitable option for those who suffer from bone loss.
What does an All-on-4 dental implant procedure include?
Here’s an overview of the procedure:
Initial Consultation:
The dentist will check your overall dental health, discuss treatment goals, and see if you are a suitable candidate for All-on-4 implants.
Treatment Planning:
If you are suitable for the treatment, then X-rays, CT scans, or 3D images of your jawbone will be taken to assess bone density and identify the implant placement locations.
Implant Placement:
The dentist will administer local anesthesia or sedate you to provide comfort. He will then place four implants into your jawbone. These implants are angled to maximize contact with available bone and provide maximum support for the prosthesis.
Temporary Prosthesis Placement:
After placement, a temporary prosthesis is attached to the implants. This temporary dental bridge or denture allows you to go home with a functional set of teeth while your permanent prosthesis is being made.
Healing Period:
After implant placement, it takes a few months for the implants to fuse with the nearby bone (called osseointegration). In the meantime, you will have to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions. These include eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activities, and practicing good oral hygiene.
Final Prosthesis Placement:
Once the implants have completely integrated with your bone, you will have to visit the dental office for the placement of your permanent prosthesis, which will resemble, feel, and function like natural teeth.
How Long Do All-on-4 Implants Last?
A 2017 study showed that dental implants have a success rate of 90%-95% after ten years. Many dentists have also noted that these implants can last approximately 20 years with proper care. The implant posts are highly durable and do not need replacement. However, the dentures attached to these posts will experience regular wear and tear.
What Factors Contribute to the Longevity of All-on-4 Implants?
The longevity of All-on-4 dental implants is influenced by various factors, including:
- Patient’s Age: The procedure shows a higher success rate for young people, as they have better chances of regenerating bone.
- Length of the Implant: Longer implants provide much better stability and integrate well with the jawbone.
- Location of the Implant: Implants in dense bone areas have higher success rates.
- Quality of the Jawbone: A healthy jawbone provides a stronger foundation for implants.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Health conditions like diabetes affect bone healing and implant integration.
- Infectious Diseases: Active infections affect healing and implant success.
- Smoking: Smoking can impair blood flow and bone healing and reduce the success rate of implants.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy also affect oral health and healing.
- Periodontal Disease: A gum disease can compromise the success of implants.
Tips to Increase the Longevity of All-on-4 Dental Implants?
Choose an experienced dentist:
Consult a skilled dentist who is an expert in performing all-on-4 dental implants to ensure their success.
Maintain oral hygiene:
Regularly brush and rinse your mouth to maintain your dentures and overall health. It will decrease the chances of infection and implant rejection.
Improve Overall Health:
Improve your diet and address any health issues, such as circulation problems, as this can reduce the risk of implant failure.
Choose Durable Material:
Do not choose plastic or acrylic for dentures; instead, use zirconia or porcelain, as they can bear wear and tear much better.
Quit Smoking and Alcohol:
Smoking and alcohol consumption cause dry mouth and hinder gum health and implant healing.
Adjust your diet:
Eat soft food items only after the surgery, then switch to a balanced diet to support bone health.
Avoid Teeth Grinding:
The dentists advise wearing a night guard to protect the dentures and implants from the damage of teeth grinding.
Conclusion
So, How long do All-on-4 dental implants last? These implants offer a long-lasting solution for people looking to restore their smile and regain confidence. It requires proper care and maintenance so that these implants can last for several years.
Learn how All-on-4 dental implants can transform your smile.
Request an appointment online with City of Lights Dental in Aurora, IL, today! New patients can call us at (630) 216-4019, while current patients can call at (630) 892-7087.
FAQ
All-on-4 dental implants can last for many years, often a decade or more.
All-on-4 dental implants do not require special maintenance except good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure their longevity.
Sometimes, All-on-4 dental implants may require replacement due to damage. It is best to consult with the dentist, who can assess the situation and provide a treatment plan.
