By now you’ve probably heard the buzz about All-on-4™ implants, also known as the Teeth in a Day Procedure. If you or a loved one is suffering from one or more missing teeth, you may have more questions than answers right now about this revolutionary new implant-based tooth replacement. If so, here’s a quick primer:
What Is It?
The Teeth in a Day Procedure is a technique used by an oral surgeon to remove failing teeth and place fully functional implants in one office visit. It’s a groundbreaking treatment because it eliminates the need for multiple appointments. Most patients do not need bone grafting prior to this oral surgery, resulting in a shorter healing time.
What Is It Used For?
During this procedure, missing teeth are replaced with a full dental bridge that is fixed within the mouth and looks and functions just like natural teeth. As a result, the Teeth in a Day Procedure improves a patient’s oral health and appearance—while making it possible for them to eat all their favorite foods once again.
How It’s Done
To help you feel totally relaxed and comfortable, you will receive a sedative medication and dental anesthetic prior to the procedure. Your oral surgeon will remove any remaining teeth that are failing as well as clean out any diseased or chronically infected tissue from your jaw or gums. Next, the oral surgeon will place two dental implants near the front of the jaw and two other implants near the back of the jaw. Finally, the surgeon will attach a new set of prosthetic teeth to your implants and adjust them for comfort, bite and fit.
Is It Worth the Cost?
When weighing the cost of the Teeth in a Day Procedure, keep in mind the technique can end up saving you money. It only requires four implants per jaw (older implant techniques may require as many as 10 implants per jaw). Plus, with proper care, implants can last a lifetime.