Tooth loss is extremely common among adults, especially as we age. In fact, more than 35 million people in America are missing all their upper and/or lower teeth. Rather than living with the hassle of dentures, many people are opting for what is called “All-on-4™” dental implant restoration.
To fully understand this amazing technique for replacing teeth, you should first understand what a dental implant is. An implant is a small titanium screw that fits inside your jawbone and replaces the root part of a missing tooth. Minor surgery is required to insert the implant. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached to give you a highly realistic-looking and functional prosthetic tooth.
For the All-on-4™ method you do not need a dental implant for each and every one of your missing teeth. All you need is four precisely placed implants either on the top of your mouth, four on the bottom of your mouth, or four each on the top and bottom depending how many teeth you are missing, to restore your full smile. That is the beauty of the All-on-4™ system. Since the implant is made of titanium, it has the unique ability to fuse to living bone and function as part of it. Eventually, the dental implant becomes part of the jawbone and serves as a strong, long-lasting foundation for your implant.
Besides ensuring that your implants are permanently fixed in place, this bone fusion has another important benefit- it prevents future bone loss in the jaw. This helps to maintain a more youthful facial structure and better oral health. But perhaps the biggest surprise about the All-on-4™ method is how quickly it can transform your life.
If you want to learn more about All-on-4™ dental implants, simply call Byerly Family Dentistry and we will answer any questions you may have.