Is All-On-4 Treatment Right for Me?

Who might consider All-on-4 treatment?

Full-arch implant treatment may be worth discussing if you already have no teeth in an arch, have loose teeth from advanced periodontal disease, or have extensive decay and many teeth that cannot be restored. A decision to remove remaining teeth deserves a thorough examination and a comparison with tooth-preserving options.

When might a smaller treatment be better?

If most teeth and gums are stable and only one or two teeth are missing, individual implants or other restorative treatment may fit better than replacing an entire arch. When several teeth may still be saved, Dr. L.T. Johnson coordinates with a prosthodontist or the restorative dentist the patient chooses so the options can be compared.

What does the evaluation include?

Dr. Johnson reviews medical history, a clinical exam, periodontal health, and CT imaging. The scan helps assess available bone and the possible positions of implants. Bite forces and a history of grinding or clenching also affect the plan. The surgeon and restorative clinician discuss implant positions and the design of temporary and final teeth together.

What if I have lost bone?

Limited bone does not always rule out a fixed arch. Depending on the upper-jaw anatomy, options may include grafting or zygomatic implants. A CT-based evaluation is needed; neither option is right for everyone. Grafting requires healing time, while zygomatic implants may help selected patients avoid extensive grafting.

Will I leave with teeth?

Temporary teeth may be attached on the day of surgery if the implants have enough initial stability. That decision is made during treatment and is not guaranteed. The temporary prosthesis gives patients time to heal, learn cleaning, and evaluate the smile before the restorative clinician designs final teeth.

What commitments come after treatment?

Implants and full-arch bridges require daily cleaning under the prosthesis and regular professional maintenance. Patients should also understand the possibility of implant loss, temporary bridge breakage, repair needs, and changes in speech while adapting. A damaged bridge should be assessed promptly.

For an individual plan, contact OFSIH or call (281) 491-4545. Learn about the OFSIH full-arch process.