FAQ
How are All-on-4TM dental implants different from dentures?
As opposed to dentures, All-on-4TM dental implants are a permanent set of teeth that look and feel natural, which means they:
- Are permanent teeth that are brushed and cleaned like natural teeth
- Do not have to be taken out and cleaned each night
- Do not need messy, sticky adhesives
- Do not press down on your gums, preventing discomfort
- Allow for you to taste and experience the hot/cold of your food
- Do not cause you to gag
- Allow you to bite with increased force, which means you can eat all of your favorite foods
- Prevent bone deterioration
How do All-on-4TM dental implants compare to traditional implants?
All-on-4TM dental implant procedures tend to utilize only four implants, whereas traditional implants utilize anywhere from six to height implants in one arch. Because the posterior implants of the All-on-4TM procedure are placed at an angle, it allows for increased support by using the natural support of your bone.
Also, traditional implants often require bone grafting, a process that can take six months or more. The All-on-4TM dentalprotocol requires no bone grafting for most patients, with a success rate that is equal to or better than traditional implants. The All-on-4TM dental implants saves you from unnecessary surgery and discomfort, as well as time and money.
What is the success rate with All-on-4TM dental implants?
Published studies show a 98.2% success rate using All-on-4TM dental implants on the lower arch, and a 97-98% success rate using them on the upper arch. In rare occasions, an implant can fail to integrate. In that instance, Dr. Carbery will discuss your options with you and determine the best solution. In most cases, it simply requires placing the implant in a slightly different position.
Who is the ideal candidate for All-on-4TM dental implants?
The ideal candidate for the All-on-4TM dental implant procedure is someone who is currently wearing dentures or will need dentures in the future. If you or Dr. Carbery are concerned about any health issues, he will contact your physician to discuss your medical condition and determine if this procedure is right for you. Dr. Carbery will obtain medical clearance from your doctor, if your doctor feels that it is acceptable to proceed with the procedure.
If Dr. Carbery feels that you are not a good candidate for All-on-4TM dental implants because of health concerns or severe bone loss, don't worry; Dr. Carbery is an expert in all types of dental implants. There are always alternative procedures to meet your needs.
Where will my replacement teeth be made?
Your brand new smile is crafted right here in our on-site lab. Every part of your procedure, from beginning to end, is performed under one roof and Dr. Carbery personally oversees each step to ensure the best results possible.
What will my new prosthesis be made from?
You will be given different options and a certificate of authenticity for the origin of surgical and prosthetic components and labor performed by a laboratory specialist.
Will my results look natural?
Dr. Carbery uses the latest concepts in smile design, as well as his Smile Philosophy to create your new smile. Dr. Carbery takes your facial features, skin tone, age, and personality into consideration when creating your new permanent set of teeth to ensure that they are congruent with your features. It is important that they are the right size, shape, color, and proportion. A common mistake made by dentists inexperienced with the subtleties of the prosthetic demands, is to show a line, when smiling, where the artificial gums meet your natural gums. This is evaluated by Dr. Carbery during the surgical planning to ensure that this junction is not visible during smiling or speech and you have the most natural outcome possible.
Prior to the fabrication of your final set of new teeth, Dr. Carbery makes sure that you are pleased with the size, shape, color, proportion, and comfort of your new teeth. Many patients comment that their new teeth are more beautiful than their permanent teeth ever were.
From beginning to end, what should I expect with my All-on-4TM dental implant procedure?
Each patient is different, and therefore, can expect different timelines, but a general guideline for the All-on-4TM dental implant procedure is:
- One or two visits for initial consultation and to prepare 3D scans, x-rays and impressions
- One visit to place the implants and new teeth and extract any teeth (if necessary)
- Come back for post op visits as required - usually two
- One visit three to four months after placing implants for new impressions for the permanent set of teeth
- One visit four to six months after placing implants to place permanent set of teeth
Why don't I get my permanent set of teeth the day my implants are placed?
As with any surgery, you need time to heal. So, once the implants are placed, you are given a temporary set of teeth or "long-term provisional" prosthesis made of acrylic resin, which places less stress on your gums and implants. With this set of teeth, you take it easy. You can immediately begin to enjoy your new teeth chewing and smiling with confidence once again. Once your gums have healed and the implants have stabilized, Dr. Carbery will place your permanent set of teeth, which will be made of acrylic or porcelain and will have a titanium frame that allows you to enjoy all of your favorite foods.
What if I just need implants on one arch? What do I need to do have All-on-4TM dental implants on both arches?
It is perfectly fine to have All-on-4TM dental implants on only the lower or upper arch. However, if you feel you might need dentures on both eventually, it is typically best to perform the procedure at the same time to achieve better results and save you time and money. But in certain cases, we can schedule separate procedures to meet your financial and health needs.
