What You Should Know About the All-on-4® Process
The All-on-4® process involves the placement of dental implants and the creation and attachment of dentures. Once complete, the entire process allows patients to replace an entire arch of missing teeth, which can improve oral health and appearance. Ready to learn more about the All-on-4 procedure and process?
Things to know about the All-on-4 process
The following information should be reviewed prior to starting the All-on-4® process. It can be helpful to know what to expect and how to prepare. Keep reading to find out more!
Time commitment
Because the All-on-4® involves oral surgery and the creation of custom-made dentures, the entire process is known to be pretty lengthy. Patients should expect to commit a few months of their time when undergoing the All-on-4 process. Once the implants are placed, the patient will have to go through a recovery period in which the implant wounds must heal and fuse with the bone through osseointegration. Typically, fusing takes a few months to complete. During the fusing process, patients will also be required to visit their general dentist frequently for follow up appointments.
Once fusing has been complete, the patient can return to their general dentistry office for impressions and molds to be taken. These will be sent off to a dental lab where the dentures will be custom created. After a few more weeks, the patient can return to undergo attachment of the implant-supported dentures.
Potential discomfort
Another thing to know regarding the All-on-4 process is that there is a potential for discomfort to occur. Because oral surgery is required, patients often experience some slight pain after the procedure is complete. Pain management tools will be administered to help reduce pain, however, they will not be used long-term. Additionally, the months following the placement of the implants, the patient may experience feelings of discomfort, as the implants begin to fuse with the bone.
Good oral hygiene is a must
Lastly, it is important to note that good oral hygiene is a must during the All-on-4 process. A lot of people think that implant-supported dentures do not require as much oral hygiene, but that is far from the truth. Once the dental implants are placed, patients must abide by strict oral hygiene protocol to ensure that their mouths stay free of bacteria while healing. It is recommended to avoid harsh brushing, but to rinse regularly with salt water.
Even after the healing and fusing process takes place, it is important to brush regularly and keep the dentures clean. General dentists often recommend a denture cleaning solution that helps reduce bacterial build-up.
Learn more today!
Want to know more about the All-on-4 process? Consulting with a general dentist is a great place to start. They can provide patients with answers to all questions, as well as go over the procedure in depth. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with the All-on-4 process!
Request an appointment here: https://bohndental.com or call Michael M. Bohn, DDS at (559) 432-4850 for an appointment in our Fresno office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: All-on-4 Dental Implants in Fresno, CA.