All-on-Four is a treatment method developed for patients with complete edentulism or numerous teeth that need extraction, where a fixed prosthesis is placed on only four dental implants. This method offers a more stable, functional, and aesthetic solution compared to traditional full dentures.
What is All-on-Four?
All-on-Four is an implant-supported full-arch prosthesis system applied to individuals who have no teeth in the lower or upper jaw or are at risk of losing all their teeth. A fixed dental prosthesis is screwed and attached to four dental implants placed at special angles.Before starting All-on-Four treatment, the patients' general health status and jawbone structure are evaluated in detail. Patients' expectations and treatment goals are determined in consultations with the dentist.
Why is All-on-Four Preferred?
All-on-Four treatment is often preferred in edentulous patients because it offers the following advantages:- Full-Arch Prosthesis in a Single Surgery: Generally, implant placement and temporary prosthesis application can be done on the same day. This way, patients get rid of edentulism in a short time.
- Fewer Implants: Only four implants are sufficient for a full-arch prosthesis. This can reduce treatment costs and shorten surgical time.
- Reduced Need for Bone Grafting: Thanks to the angled placement of the posterior implants, the need for bone grafting may be eliminated in some patients who do not have sufficient bone volume.
- High Stability and Function: The prosthesis fixed on the implants is much more stable and functional than traditional removable dentures. Chewing ability increases significantly.
- Aesthetic Appearance: The fixed prosthesis offers an appearance close to natural teeth and increases patients' self-confidence.
- Faster Healing Process: A faster healing process is generally observed compared to traditional implant treatments.
- Comfortable Use: The fixed prosthesis eliminates problems such as sores, discomfort, and falling out caused by removable dentures.
- Detailed Examination and Evaluation: The dentist evaluates the patient's oral and jaw structure in detail clinically and radiologically (panoramic x-ray, tomography, etc.). General medical history is taken, and the patient's expectations are understood.
- Treatment Planning: In light of the data obtained, the most suitable positions and angles for implant placement are determined. Surgical guides are prepared if necessary.
- Implant Placement Surgery: Under local anesthesia or sedation, four dental implants are placed at the designated points. Posterior implants are usually placed at an angle.
- Temporary Prosthesis Application (If Necessary): After implant placement, in some cases, a temporary full-arch prosthesis can be attached to the implants on the_same day or shortly after. This prevents the patient from being immediately edentulous.
- Healing Process: A healing period of usually several months is expected for the implants to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration).
- Permanent Prosthesis Fabrication and Placement: After healing is complete, the patient's oral impressions are taken, and the permanent, fixed full-arch prosthesis is prepared in the laboratory and screwed onto the implants.
- Acrylic Prostheses: It is a more economical option and is generally used as a temporary or long-term temporary prosthesis.
- Hybrid Prostheses: These are prostheses in which acrylic teeth are placed on a metal or titanium substructure. It offers durability and aesthetics together.
- Zirconium or Ceramic Prostheses: These are more costly prosthesis types that offer high aesthetics and durability. They are very close to the appearance of natural teeth.
- In those with uncontrolled systemic diseases,
- In those with advanced bone loss and where bone grafting is not appropriate,
- In those who do not pay attention to oral hygiene and have low treatment motivation,
- In those with some psychological disorders (your dentist will inform you).
- Fixed Prosthesis in a Short Time: It offers the possibility of getting a fixed or temporary prosthesis usually on the_same day with a single surgical procedure.
- Fewer Implants: Only four implants are sufficient for a full arch.
- Reduced Need for Bone Grafting: Thanks to the angled placement of the posterior implants, the need for bone grafting may be reduced.
- High Stability and Chewing Function: Chewing ability increases significantly thanks to the fixed prosthesis.
- Aesthetic and Natural Appearance: Provides an appearance close to natural teeth.
- Comfortable Use: More comfortable than removable dentures.
- Cost-Effectiveness: May be more economical than traditional full implant treatment.
- ✔ Elimination of complete edentulism.
- ✔ Ensuring the stabilization of removable dentures.
- ✔ Improvement of chewing function.
- ✔ Restoration of an aesthetic smile.
- ✔ Creation of a comfortable oral structure.
How Does the Pre-All-on-Four Process Work?
All-on-Four application must be meticulously planned and implemented by an experienced implantologist. The general process consists of the following steps:
What are the Types of Prostheses Used in All-on-Four?
Fixed full-arch prostheses are generally used in All-on-Four treatment. These prostheses may differ according to their materials:
Can I decide how my teeth will look before All-on-Four treatment?
Yes, before All-on-Four treatment, you can plan the shape, size, and color of your new prosthesis in detail with your dentist. Different options are evaluated to achieve the aesthetic appearance you desire.
In how many stages is the All-on-Four procedure completed?
The All-on-Four procedure is generally completed in several stages: detailed examination and planning, implant placement surgery, healing process, and fabrication and placement of the permanent prosthesis. In some cases, a temporary prosthesis application may also be performed.
Will I feel pain during All-on-Four implant surgery?
You will not feel any pain during the procedure as implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia or sedation. After the procedure, there may be mild pain, swelling, or bruising, but these can usually be controlled with medication.
In which cases is All-on-Four treatment applied?
All-on-Four treatment can be preferred in cases of complete edentulism in the lower or upper jaw, patients at risk of losing all their teeth, those dissatisfied with traditional removable dentures, or situations requiring bone grafting.
Am I a suitable candidate for All-on-Four?
Whether you are a suitable candidate for All-on-Four is determined by the detailed examination and evaluation conducted by your dentist. Good general health and sufficient jawbone volume are important.
In which cases may All-on-Four not be recommended?
Can All-on-Four treatment be performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are generally not suitable times for elective dental treatments. However, in emergencies, the most appropriate approach should be determined by consulting your dentist.
Do All-on-Four implants affect my natural teeth?
In All-on-Four treatment, your natural teeth may have been lost or need to be extracted. The placed implants replace the natural teeth and ensure the fixation of the prosthesis.
What are the advantages of All-on-Four compared to traditional full dentures?
All-on-Four is more stable, more functional, more aesthetic, and more comfortable than traditional full dentures. It does not move, does not cause sores, and significantly increases chewing ability.
Can the All-on-Four prosthesis be removed?
The All-on-Four prosthesis is fixed to the implants by screwing and cannot be removed by the patient. Only the dentist can remove the prosthesis with special tools. This increases the stability and function of the prosthesis.
What are the Advantages of All-on-Four Treatment?
The main advantages of All-on-Four treatment are:
What problems can be solved with All-on-Four treatment?
Problems such as complete edentulism, difficulties experienced in the use of removable dentures, insufficient chewing function, and aesthetic concerns can be effectively solved with All-on-Four treatment.
Can I have All-on-Four for a single jaw?
Yes, All-on-Four treatment can be applied for a single jaw (lower or upper). The problem of edentulism in only one jaw can be solved according to need.
What is the role of All-on-Four in the smile design process?
All-on-Four treatment is an important part of the smile design process. The shape, size, and color of the new prosthesis are planned according to the patient's facial features and aesthetic expectations.
How long is the lifespan of an All-on-Four prosthesis?
With proper oral care, regular dental check-ups, and careful use, the lifespan of an All-on-Four prosthesis can be many years. The success of the implants and the durability of the prosthesis are important factors affecting this period.
What should I pay attention to after getting All-on-Four?
Regular and proper oral care is very important after getting All-on-Four. You should clean your prosthesis using special brushes, interdental brushes, and oral irrigators recommended by your dentist. You should not neglect regular dental check-ups.
What should I do if there is a problem with my All-on-Four prosthesis?
If there is a loosening, fracture, or any other problem with your All-on-Four prosthesis, you should definitely not intervene on your own and should contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Does the color of the All-on-Four prosthesis change over time?
The color of high-quality All-on-Four prostheses does not change easily over time. However, heavy smoking or excessive consumption of some staining foods can cause surface stains. Regular cleaning prevents this situation.