What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?

The All-On-4 procedure, also known as "Teeth in a Day," enables patients to have their remaining teeth extracted, implants placed, and a fully functional smile all in one day. This transformative procedure not only enhances the appearance of patients' smiles but also renews their outlook on life. Many individuals struggle with severe tooth decay, failing dental work, and broken teeth. For these patients, the All-On-4 "Teeth in a Day" procedure is an ideal solution, providing a new smile and resolving long-standing dental issues.
  • Natural Appearance: Closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth.
  • Permanent Solution: Remains fixed in the mouth, unlike removable dentures.
  • Immediate Use: No lengthy healing times required before you can use your implants.
  • Comfortable Fit: Does not cover the roof of the mouth, enhancing comfort.
  • Optimal Chewing Function: Provides the best chewing ability among full arch or full mouth replacement options.
  • Ideal for Limited Bone: Suitable for patients with insufficient bone for traditional implants.
  • Enhanced Taste: Improves the food tasting experience.

Procedure Overview

This procedure includes extracting any remaining teeth, placing 4-6 implants per arch, and attaching a low-profile bridge to those implants. The implants are strategically positioned to avoid the patient's sinuses, eliminating the need for costly bone grafts and lengthy healing periods.

At Capitol Oral Surgery & Implant Center, we proudly provide dental implants in Little Rock with a focus on precision, comfort, and long-term results. Our doctor has refined the traditional All-On-4 procedure by customizing it to each patient's unique anatomy, ensuring better outcomes. During the procedure, your doctor will place between four and six implants per arch and attach temporary fixed bridges while your implants integrate with your jawbones and your mouth heals.

Once the healing process is complete, our doctor and lab technician will design your final teeth using zirconia, a material significantly stronger than the acrylic denture teeth offered at other dental practices. Zirconia provides a more natural and lifelike appearance, is more hygienic, and is resistant to staining. Consequently, these teeth will have a longer lifespan and superior aesthetics compared to the acrylic/titanium hybrid bridges commonly found elsewhere.

Are You a Suitable Candidate?

Most patients, including those previously advised against dental implants due to insufficient bone, are potential candidates for this procedure. Your doctor will strategically utilize a combination of straight and angled implants to avoid the sinuses and maximize the use of the strongest bone. This approach typically eliminates the need for costly and lengthy sinus augmentation bone grafts. During your complimentary consultation, your doctor will evaluate whether the All-On-4 procedure, also known as "Teeth in a Day," is suitable for you.

Full Mouth Implants

Timeline for the All-On-4 Procedure

The All-On-4 procedure typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on whether one or both arches (upper or lower) are being treated. After the procedure, temporary bridges will be securely attached to the newly placed implants. These temporary bridges will be worn for about 4 months, allowing for proper integration with the bone and healing of the jaws and gums. This healing period ensures the best fit for the final bridges.

Once healing is complete, fabrication of the final bridges begins. This process involves several appointments over a span of 5 to 6 weeks, during which we will work together to design your desired smile for your permanent teeth.

1

Mouth Impressions

The lab uses high-quality materials to craft your temporary implant bridge(s). If you’re missing a significant number of teeth in the arch being treated, your doctor may recommend a wax try-in. This process involves creating a wax model of your temporary implant bridge to evaluate bite position, aesthetics, and other important factors.

2

Procedure

Extract any necessary teeth, insert the implants, and place the temporary implant bridge(s). This entire process typically takes 4 to 7 hours.

3

Post Op #1

After the procedure, monitor your healing progress and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have.

4

Post Op #2

At your appointment three weeks after the procedure, the sutures will be removed, and your healing progress will be evaluated. Usually, this is when you will be cleared to begin using a water flosser or WaterPik.

5

Impressions for Final Teeth

After 4 months of the procedure

6

Try In

Within 5 to 10 days of taking impressions, you will receive a mock-up of your final teeth. In some cases, multiple wax try-ins may be necessary to ensure your satisfaction. It's important to finalize any adjustments during this phase, as changes after approval cannot be accommodated without incurring a full-cost remake charge for your bridge(s).

7

Seat Final Teeth

Once you approve the wax try-in(s), it typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks for your bridge or bridges to be prepared for placement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcoming New Patients!