If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re not alone. You may be surprised to learn that 69 percent of adults ages 33 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth—due to an accident, gum disease, tooth decay or a failed root canal. And once we reach age 74, more than a quarter of our age group will have lost all of their permanent teeth.
So it’s no surprise that more and more people are asking us about our “Teeth in a Day” procedure that uses All-on-4™ dental implants. It’s one of the latest advances in implant technology, making it possible for an oral surgeon to remove teeth and place fully functional implants in one office visit. When looking at the costs of All-on-4™ dental implants, it’s important to remember they can last a lifetime, unlike a bridge that typically has to be replaced more often.
Are you a candidate for All-on-4™ dental implants? This technique is a good solution for people of all ages (with the exception of growing children) even if they have one or more of the following concerns:
• Chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Certain conditions require extra precautions, but if you can have routine dental treatment, you generally can have dental implants.
• Periodontal disease or problem teeth. You can still enjoy the benefits of All-on-4™ dental implants after losing your teeth due to gum disease or decay.
• A history of wearing partials or dentures. All-on-4™ implants can replace removable bridges or dentures.
• Bone loss. Bone loss is common in people who have lost teeth or have had periodontal disease—and it doesn’t rule you out from receiving dental implants.
• Smoking. If you smoke, it’s important to realize you may still be a candidate for dental implants, but this habit lowers the success rate of the procedure.