By Philip Broughton
Principal implantologist
Phil has placed over 5,000 implants and provided over 200 All on 4 cases in the last 20 years.
What is all on 4
All on 4 is a generic term given to a full set of top or bottom teeth that are permanently fixed to 4 dental implants. When we loose teeth the anatomy of our jaws often results in a lack of bone at the back of the mouth. The All on 4 procedure eliminates the need for invasive (and often expensive) bone grafting procedures.
Commonly 10 teeth can be bridged across 4 dental implants, covering your smile and providing enough teeth to chew your food.
What are the alternatives
For those that have lost all their teeth the options are limited. A denture is removable and rests on the gums. By nature it is invasive (a real mouthful) and unstable. It is possible to place dental implants and clip a denture onto small ‘press studs’ that are permanently fixed to the implants. These are much more stable and less bulky but still are removable.
What are the advantages of implant bridges
I am told that the ability to eat a full and varied diet with confidence is life changing.
The All on 4 bridges are often screw retained. The dentist can very easily remove the bridge to easily maintain the implants or repair the bridge if needed.
How long do they last
This is dependent on so many factors. The literature would suggest 10 to 20 years. I have cases that have lasted longer but frustratingly I have had a couple of cases that have had a shorter lifespan.
There is no doubt that lifestyle (smoking and drinking), systemic illness (like diabetes) and maintenance (regular hygiene visits are strongly recommended) have a huge impact on the long term prognosis of dental implants.
Is the procedure painful
Implants are placed under local anaesthetic so the procedure itself is painless. Many patients chose sedation to relax them during the procedure. Painkillers are provided for a few days after surgery when the gums can be inflamed and tender.
How much do they cost
If you present with existing teeth that need removing and the gums are infected then we may have to provide you with a temporary denture whilst everything heals.
This phase is specific to your personal circumstances and costs vary. (£500.00- £1,500.00)
All on 4 case not requiring any teeth out or temporary restorations (usually if you already wear a denture)
£10,000.00 – £12,000:00.
These costs vary depending on the quality and materials that you choose in your final bridge.
NOTE
The more implants we place, the greater the long term prognosis of your bridge. Placing 6 or 8 implants spreads the load and reduces the pressure on each implant. Moreover if, in the future, an implant was to fail then an All on 6 would become an All on 5 which would rarely affect the status-quo.
For a free consultation on whether dental implants would be beneficial to you please do not hesitate to connect with our Manchester or Stockport Clinics on 0161 830 7300.
