All On Four Highlands Ranch & Littleton CO

All-on-Four dental implants in Highlands Ranch is a revolutionary procedure designed to replace an entire arch of missing or damaged teeth using just four strategically placed implants. This treatment offers a permanent, natural-looking solution for patients with significant tooth loss, providing a fully functional set of teeth within a day or two. The benefits of All-on-Four include:

1. Immediate Results: Full restoration of function and appearance in a short time.
2. Reduced Need for Bone Grafting: The implants are placed at specific angles, minimizing the need for bone grafting in patients with low jawbone density.
3. Improved Comfort: Unlike traditional dentures, All-on-Four implants are fixed, offering better stability and eliminating discomfort from shifting or clicking.
4. Long-Lasting: With proper care, All-on-Four implants can last a lifetime.
5. Enhanced Aesthetics: The procedure provides a natural-looking smile that boosts confidence and improves quality of life.

The All-On-Four dental implant procedure in Highlands Ranch and dentures are both options for replacing missing teeth, but they are fundamentally different in terms of their structure, function, and how they are placed in the mouth. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

1. Type of Replacement

• All-On-Four Dental Implants: This involves placing four titanium implants into the jawbone, which serve as a base to support a full arch of artificial teeth. The implants fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration, providing a permanent and stable foundation.
• Dentures: Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth. They rest on the gums and are typically held in place by suction, adhesives, or sometimes dental implants (if implant-supported dentures are used). There are full and partial dentures depending on how many teeth are missing.

2. Stability

• All-On-Four: The implants are surgically embedded into the jawbone, offering a highly stable solution. Once the implants integrate with the bone, they function like natural teeth, providing excellent stability for eating, speaking, and other activities.
• Dentures: Traditional dentures can shift or loosen in the mouth, especially during eating or speaking. They rely on the gums and, sometimes, adhesives for stability, which can be less secure over time.

3. Longevity

• All-On-Four: These implants are designed to last many years, often 20 years or more with proper care. Since they are integrated into the jawbone, they do not need to be replaced regularly.
• Dentures: While dentures can last several years, they may need to be replaced or adjusted more frequently as the shape of the jaw changes over time due to bone loss. They typically have a shorter lifespan than implants.

4. Comfort

• All-On-Four: Because they are fixed into the jaw, they tend to be more comfortable than dentures. There is no slipping or discomfort from adhesive, and they provide a natural feel similar to real teeth.
• Dentures: Dentures can sometimes cause irritation to the gums, especially if they do not fit properly. They can feel bulky or uncomfortable and may need to be removed at night.

5. Appearance

• All-On-Four: Implants offer a more natural appearance since they are fixed securely and look like real teeth. The arch of artificial teeth is customized to match the appearance of natural teeth.
• Dentures: Dentures may look natural, but they are often less realistic compared to implants, especially if they do not fit well or if the material used is not high-quality. They can also create a “fake” or overly noticeable appearance, depending on the design.

6. Maintenance

• All-On-Four: These implants require regular dental check-ups, but they do not need to be removed or cleaned in the same way as dentures. Patients care for them like natural teeth, brushing and flossing daily.
• Dentures: Dentures must be removed and cleaned daily to prevent plaque buildup and staining. They also require soaking in a special solution overnight, and regular adjustments may be needed as the mouth changes shape.

7. Procedure and Recovery

• All-On-Four: The procedure involves surgery to place the implants into the jawbone. Recovery can take several months for the implants to fully integrate with the bone, though patients often get temporary teeth placed immediately after the procedure.
• Dentures: Dentures do not require surgery. Once impressions are taken, dentures are custom-made and can be placed in the mouth relatively quickly, although getting the right fit may take some adjustments.

8. Cost

• All-On-Four: This procedure is generally more expensive upfront because it involves surgery, implants, and a longer process of healing. However, it is a long-term investment as it can last decades.
• Dentures: Dentures are typically less expensive initially but may require more maintenance and replacement over time, making them a less permanent investment.

9. Impact on Bone Health

• All-On-Four: Since the implants are anchored in the jawbone, they help maintain bone density and prevent the bone loss that often occurs when teeth are lost. This is one of the advantages over traditional dentures.
• Dentures: Traditional dentures do not address bone loss. Over time, the jawbone may shrink, which can lead to a less secure fit and changes in facial appearance.

You’re in Good Hands with Highlands Ranch Oral Surgery

At Highlands Ranch Oral & Facial Surgery, we understand the significance of oral health and its impact on our client’s overall well-being. Dr. Hambleton and his skilled staff at Highlands Ranch Oral & Facial Surgery are dedicated to patient comfort, safety, and satisfaction, so you can be assured your full arch restoration will go smoothly and comfortably.