All on 4 Implants – The game-changing dental solution you need to know about
- Written by: Markham Associates
- Date:
- Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants
Introduction to All on 4 Implants
If you’re struggling with missing teeth, loose dentures, or failing dental work, All on 4 implants could be the solution that changes your life. This advanced dental technique allows you to replace a full arch of teeth with just four implants – giving you a new, confident smile in a single day.
Let’s explore how this revolutionary treatment works, who it’s for, and why more people are choosing All on 4 implants as their long-term dental solution.
What Are All on 4 Implants?
All on 4 implants refer to a full-arch restoration procedure where a complete set of upper or lower teeth is supported by just four strategically placed dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums, All on 4 implants are anchored directly into the jawbone.
This technique was developed to maximize existing bone support, often eliminating the need for bone grafting. It’s especially helpful for patients who’ve experienced significant bone loss due to missing teeth.
All on 4 implants are sometimes referred to as ‘teeth in a day’ because of the speedy and effective results you can achieve in just one day!
Key features of All on 4 Implants
✔ Only four implants per arch
✔ Immediate placement of temporary teeth
✔Fixed, non-removable restoration
✔Natural-looking aesthetics
History and Evolution of Dental Implants
The concept of dental implants dates back thousands of years, but modern implantology began in the 1960s with the discovery of osseointegration – the process by which titanium integrates with bone.
All on 4 is a more recent innovation, developed in the 1990s by Nobel Biocare and Dr. Paulo Malo. This method revolutionised full-mouth rehabilitation by offering a quicker, more affordable solution to traditional implant methods that required 6–8 implants per arch.
How do All on 4 Implants work?
The All on 4 technique involves placing four implants in areas of the jaw with the highest bone density. Two implants are positioned at the front of the jaw vertically, while two posterior implants are angled at about 45 degrees. This provides optimal support for the prosthesis and avoids areas where bone loss may have occurred.
Once the implants are secured, a temporary prosthesis is attached the same day, allowing you to leave the clinic with a new smile.
The All on 4 technique involves placing four implants in areas of the jaw with the highest bone density. Two implants are positioned at the front of the jaw vertically, while two posterior implants are angled at about 45 degrees. This provides optimal support for the prosthesis and avoids areas where bone loss may have occurred.
Once the implants are secured, a temporary prosthesis is attached the same day, allowing you to leave the clinic with a new smile.
The role of angled implants
Angling the rear implants avoids the sinus cavities and nerve canals, making surgery less invasive and eliminating the need for bone grafting in most cases.
Full arch restoration in one day
The ability to walk out with functional, fixed teeth on the same day is a major draw for patients. This is often called the “teeth in a day” concept.
Benefits of choosing All on 4 Implants
There are numerous advantages to choosing All on 4 over traditional dentures or implants:
Improved Stability and Comfort
Unlike removable dentures, All on 4 implants won’t shift, slide, or fall out. They are fixed permanently in your mouth, giving you the confidence to eat, laugh, and speak naturally.
Aesthetic Improvements
All on 4 prosthetics are customized to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth. The results are stunning and lifelike.
Bone Preservation and Support
Implants stimulate bone growth, helping to prevent jawbone deterioration. This keeps your facial structure intact and prevents the sunken look often caused by missing teeth.
All on 4 Implants vs Traditional implants
Traditional implants have 6-8 implants per arch, can often require bone grafting and can take anywhere between 3-6 months to achieve your new smile.
All on 4 implants only require 4 implants per arch, rarely require bone grafting and can give you your new smile within only one day!
Who is a good candidate for All on 4?
Age and Health Factors
Ideal candidates are generally healthy adults with multiple missing teeth or severe dental issues. Conditions like controlled diabetes or heart disease are manageable with proper planning.
Bone Density Considerations
Patients with low bone volume may still qualify due to the strategic placement of implants in areas with higher bone density.
Step-by-step: All on 4 procedure
Consultation and Scanning
Your dentist will begin with a comprehensive exam, 3D scans, and a review of your dental history.
Implant Placement and Recovery
On the day of the procedure, implants are placed under local or general anaesthesia. A temporary set of teeth is attached immediately – meaning your smile is transformed within a day!
Fitting the Final Prosthesis
After 3–6 months of healing, your permanent teeth are fitted, offering a natural look and strong bite.
Aftercare and maintenance of All on 4 Implants
Cleaning Tips and Tools
Caring for All on 4 implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, water flosser, and non-abrasive toothpaste are all recommended. You should also try to avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage the prosthesis.
Routine Dental Checkups
As with general dentistry, visiting your dentist twice a year for cleanings and check-ups are encouraged to ensure long-term success.
Cost of All on 4 Implants in Reading
The cost of All-on-4 implants is unique to each case – depending on the amount of teeth missing. The cost for your set of implants can be determined by coming in to see us at Markham Associates: 161 Oxford Road, Reading, RG1 7UY, although they typically start from about £7,000.
What’s Included in the Cost?
- Initial consultation
- 3D scans and imaging
- Implant surgery
- Temporary and permanent prostheses
Financing Options and Insurance
If paying for your implants upfront is too big of a cost, then we offer financing options, allowing you to split the cost across many months, meaning a new smile is accessible for everyone!
Frequently asked questions
1. Are All on 4 implants painful?
The All on 4 procedure is generally performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring that the process is pain free and comfortable for our patients in Reading. Most patients report minimal discomfort, similar to tooth extraction. Some minor pain may be experienced for a day after the procedure, however, we can provide you with medication to manage this pain, and are available for any questions or concerns you may have.
2. How long do All on 4 implants last?
With proper care, they can last 15–20 years or longer.
3. Can I eat normally with All on 4 implants?
Yes! This is one of the huge benefits of All on 4 implants. They restore full chewing function, so after healing, you can enjoy a wide range of foods.
4. What’s the recovery time?
You may experience some inital swelling and discomfort after the procedure, but this should subside within a few days to a full week. Full osseointegration (integration with the jawbone) occurs within 3–6 months.
5. Do All on 4 implants look natural?
Absolutely. The prosthetic teeth are designed to look and feel like real teeth.
6. Is bone grafting needed?
Usually not, thanks to the angled placement of implants.
7. Why choose Markham Associates over other providers of All-on-4 implants in Reading?
Our team, lead by Dr Ali Kamran, have over 30+ years of combined experience, and are extremely proficient in this procedure. The team have developed their expertise regarding All on 4 implants, and have provided past patients with functional and beautiful smiles, whilst also providing the patients with reassurance and a calm and comfortable environment.
Final Thoughts
All on 4 implants offer a fast, effective, and long-lasting solution to tooth loss. Whether you’re tired of wearing dentures or seeking a more permanent fix, this treatment can give you back your smile – and your confidence.
Consult with a trusted dental professional to find out if you’re a candidate for this life-changing procedure.
Don’t wait—if you’re experiencing a dental emergency, contact Markham Associates.