Comparing Traditional Dental Implants vs All-On-4 Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a long-term effective way for patients with missing teeth to restore their smiles. Unlike dentures, they are secured directly into the jaw, so they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. At Premier Periodontics, our periodontal team can evaluate your oral health to determine if you’re a candidate for dental implants. During your initial consultation, we can also explain the differences between traditional dental implants and All-on-4® dental implants. To schedule this consultation with our experienced periodontal specialists and to learn more about this missing teeth solution, reach out to one of our convenient locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements for the root of your tooth. At Premier Periodontics, we place these screw-like posts directly into your jaw. This makes dental implants a usually permanent restoration option for missing teeth. These natural-looking tooth replacements allow our patients to enjoy restored oral health after they’re placed.

Once the dental implants have been placed, osseointegration must occur when the bone fuses around the implants to bond effectively. The average healing time for dental implants is from a few months to up to six months. This varies from patient to patient. The visible portion of the dental implants is made of porcelain and is custom made to seamlessly match the existing teeth in your mouth.

When are dental implants needed?

Anytime that a patient is facing the loss of a permanent tooth, a dental implant is a great treatment choice. At Premier Periodontics, we focus on treating and saving natural teeth whenever we can. However, in some situations, tooth extraction or tooth loss is unavoidable. When this occurs, we can discuss treatment options such as All-on-4 dental implants.

Some of the most common causes of tooth loss include:

Trauma
Infection
Injury
Periodontal disease
Tooth decay

While some teeth can be saved, there are times when choosing All-on-4 dental implants is necessary. These dental implants offer a long-term solution for restoring a healthy smile.

Dental implants vs All-on-4 implants

Traditional dental implants require at least two surgeries to install while All-on-4 implants offer a faster fix. The All-on-4 procedure can replace your entire mouth with just four dental implants. They are not removable and are bonded directly to the jawbone. This is a long-term solution for reconstructing your teeth. When compared to dentures, they offer a more secure treatment option. Compared to traditional dental implants, up to eight implants may be necessary for the same result that All-on-4 implants can do with just four. The All-on-4 process is much simpler than traditional dental implants.

Benefits of All-on-4 dental implants

All-on-4 dental implants offer many benefits, including:

Quick results: You will see improvements to your smile in as little as a day.
Improve your smile: The All-on-4 process helps you to preserve the jawbone and decrease wrinkles caused by missing teeth.
No food restrictions: Your eating habits will improve when you choose all-on-4 dental implants, unlike dentures.
Long-lasting smile: Dental implants cannot be removed, so your new teeth should last a lifetime.
Improved oral health: The All-on-4 dental implants create a healthier mouth and body by reducing your chance of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk of strokes, heart attacks, and Type II Diabetes. These implants can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth.
Easier care for your teeth: With All-on-4 dental implants, it’s much easier to care for your teeth and gums.

Learn more about the differences between traditional dental implants and All-on-4 dental implants

At Premier Periodontics, our periodontal team offers valuable information on the differences between dental implants and All-on-4 dental implants after a thorough dental exam. When you’re experiencing tooth loss, dental implants are a great option. To learn more about if you’re a candidate for this restorative dentistry procedure, reach out to one of our convenient locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA. Allow us to help you to restore your smile with implant dentistry.