If you’re missing several teeth, you know the issue can affect more than your smile. It can also impact your ability to eat, speak, and maintain good oral health.
At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and graduate of Meharry Medical College, often treats patients dealing with tooth loss.
Many of these patients wonder whether All-on-4 dental implants or implant-supported dentures are right for them. If you’re in this boat, understanding the differences between these common restorations can help you decide.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants provide a permanent solution for full-mouth tooth replacement. The procedure involves placing four dental implants in the jawbone to support a fixed prosthetic.
This approach eliminates the need for traditional dentures. It also provides a secure and natural-looking smile.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures combine the benefits of dental implants with the removability of traditional dentures. This option requires multiple implants to anchor the dentures. It offers more stability than a conventional removable set.
Key Distinctions
There are several critical differences between All-on-4 implants and implant-supported dentures. Here are some of the most noteworthy ones:
- Permanence: All-on-4 implants are fixed in place and function like natural teeth. You must remove implant-supported dentures daily for cleaning.
- Number of Implants: All-on-4 requires only four implants per arch. Implant-supported dentures often need more implants for stability.
- Bone Health: All-on-4 helps preserve jawbone density by preventing bone loss. Implant-supported dentures provide some bone stimulation. They may not be as effective in maintaining bone structure, though.
- Maintenance: You can brush All-on-4 implants and care for them like natural teeth. You must remove implant-supported dentures for daily cleaning and special care.
- Comfort and Stability: All-on-4 implants offer a more natural feel and stay in place. Implant-supported dentures may have minor movement, especially when eating or speaking.
The right solution depends on your lifestyle, budget, and oral health goals.
Restore Your Smile Today
At Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, we are committed to helping you find the best tooth replacement solution for your needs. Contact us today at 281-491-4545 to schedule a consultation and explore your restoration options.
