I’ve had three consultations with dentists about implant dentures, and the last dentist I saw mentioned All-on-4 dental implants. I was leaning toward getting six implants, but the dentist was pushing All-on-4. I am concerned that I will regret not getting six implants if I try to save a few thousand dollars. Are All-on-4 dental implants stable enough to hold a denture for years? Thank you. Andrej from Illinois
Andrej,
Thank you for your question. We understand your concerns and encourage you to keep comparing your options for implant-supported dentures.
Will All-on-4 Implants Loosen?
All-on-4 dental implants will not loosen with time if you get high-quality implants from a skilled implant dentist. The success of any implant-supported denture depends on several factors, including:
- A thorough review of your medical and dental histories
- A 3-D cone beam CT scan of your oral anatomy to measure bone levels and plan the optimal position of your implants
- High-quality implant fixtures
- Jawbone volume and quality
- Computer-guided surgery for precise implant placement
- Diligent follow-up care during osseointegration (healing as your implants and jawbone fuse)
- Screwing your replacement teeth onto the dental implants with precision
All-on-4 Dental Implants vs. All-on-6 Dental Implants
All-on-4 dental implants
The difference between All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants is that more implants will maximize the quality of your denture fit and function. Two additional implants will cover a wider area of your jawbone and provide additional support.
The All-on-4 technique angles the rear implants to help people with areas of low bone volume get implants without needing bone grafting. After a 3-D CT scan, a dentist can determine whether you need bone grafting and if All-on-4 makes sense for your treatment.
How Long Will Your Implant-Supported Dentures Last?
How long your implant-supported denture will last involves the lifespan of the dental implants and the lifespan of the denture or replacement teeth.
- The implants – The four to six implant screws in your jawbone can last 20 years—even a lifetime.
- The denture – Your replacement teeth will wear with time and require replacement. A high-quality denture with premier teeth and materials can last seven to ten years.
A March 2021 article in Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research published results from a long-term study of over 10,000 dental implants. The cumulative long-term implant survival rates over the years are as follows:
- Three years 97.4%
- Five years: 96.7%
- Ten years: 92.5%
- Fifteen years: 86%
Studies show that cigarette smoking and uncontrolled diabetes are related to dental implant failure.
Keep Inquiring About All-on-4 Dental Implants
Ensure all your questions about implant-supported dentures and the All-on-4 technique are answered before deciding which treatment you want. Schedule another consultation is necessary. You may wish to consent to a 3-D CT scan soon for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Dr. Siny Thomas, a Sugar Land, Texas dentist, sponsors this post. Dr. Thomas is a graduate of the surgical program of the Pikos Institute in Trinity, Florida.