Missing teeth can occur in people of all ages, so it’s critical to understand the options for filling gaps in teeth. Besides lowering your self-esteem, a missing tooth can cause your other teeth to shift, the jawbone to weaken due to lack of stimulation, and in extreme cases, the visual structure of your face may become altered.
Dental implants are the most realistic replacement for missing teeth, providing the appearance and functionality of a natural tooth.
Whether you’re missing a single tooth or need an all-on-4 dental implant procedure, the permanence of an implant provides stability and comfort that regular dentures or dental bridges cannot compete with.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant consists of three parts: the implant rod, an abutment, and a restoration. For a single tooth, an artificial crown is used to restore the teeth. If you have at least three missing teeth in a row (typically back molars), an implant-supported bridge is ideal. However, if you have multiple missing teeth or a full missing arch, an All-on-4 dental implant procedure is the best choice.
What is an All-on-4 Dental Implant Procedure?
If you have multiple missing teeth, it often doesn’t make sense to install a single dental implant for each missing tooth. Instead, your dentist can offer you the option of an All-on-4 dental implant procedure.
An All-on-4 dental procedure is a type of implant-retained denture. It involves inserting four dental implant posts into the jawbone at strategic locations at the top or bottom arch (or both). The posts have screw threads along the shaft, which allow the jawbone tissue to bond easily with the implant through the process of osseointegration.
Four abutments are attached to these posts after osseointegration occurs. These serve as anchor points for a full denture arch connected to the abutment via a retaining screw.
Dental implant treatment is a secure alternative to dentures that also provides support to your jawbone. While the dental implant posts can last a lifetime, you will need to replace the dental arch every 10 to 20 years, depending on the level of wear and tear it sustains daily and how well you maintain your oral hygiene.
What are the Benefits of an All-on-4 Dental Implant Treatment?
There are many benefits to all-on-4 dental implants compared to traditional dentures. With dental implants, the arch remains in your mouth at all times and can be cared for the same way you’d care for natural teeth. The fit is secure and won’t have any adverse effect on your speech or ability to eat.
An all-on-4 implant can also help prevent the sagging in your cheeks that occurs with tooth loss and reduces the risk of bone resorption since the metal implant posts continue to stimulate the jawbone.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
If you’re looking to replace missing teeth in Epping, Prime Dental Specialists can help. Dr Chang has extensive experience with dental implant treatment and can advise whether dental implants or an all-on-4 dental implant procedure is a viable option for your situation. Call us today on (02) 9876 8828 to book your appointment and get started on your journey to a healthy smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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