Recently, I was approached by Mike Khorev with Markham Smile Center about writing a post for our readers explaining the difference between "All on Four" and "All on Six Dental Implants." Until his submission, I was not even aware that there were different types of implants, so I felt my readers who are considering getting implants would be especially interested in learning more about this topic. At the very least, I would encourage my readers to learn everything they can about the topic before getting implants. As always, I believe in encouraging my readers to be informed consumers, particularly of something as personal and expensive as implants.
With that thought in mind, you may also want to read "A Patient's Guide to Dental Implants: All-on-4" (Ad). It expands on the information in Mike Khorev's article, which is published below:
All-on-Four vs All-on-Six Dental Implants
by Mike Khorev
Naturally, we are all growing old. Part of this experience may mean losing the things which have helped us spread happiness and positive vibes – our teeth. The loss of teeth is most often experienced by people as they age. There are various options patients may choose, such as dentures or other dental procedures, which dentists can recommend, upon consultation. Dentures are usually the option of patients; however, the hassle attached to them makes a lot of patients venture into a more convenient option. The ‘All On’ method bringing comfort and a complete set of teeth to the elderly and others who have suffered tooth loss.
‘All-On’ refers to the installation of all teeth – complete sets. ‘All-On’ varies depending on how many implants are fitted, through surgery, into your jawbones. ‘All on 4’ and ‘All on 6’ are the two types of ‘All On’ methods. Basically, ‘All-On-4’ refers to a complete set of teeth with four attached titanium screws which are surgically inserted into the patient’s jawbones, while ‘All-On-6’ is somewhat like the other but means having six titanium screws which serve as an anchor, and are implanted into the jawbones.
These methods are recommended for people who have lost a number of teeth. Through this process, wearers will feel a level of comfort and confidence they were not able to achieve with the use of normal dentures. These methods create a more concrete feeling of connection between their jawbones and artificial teeth each time they eat.
Here are some important pointers you need to know about the two ‘All On’ methods:
All-on-four:
Also known as Full-arch fixed implant bridges
All-on-4 or Full-arch fixed implant bridges are bridges that are usually supported by four dental implants. The bridges (complete set of teeth) are attached through the four dental implants which function as roots. These provide a secured, fixed, and stable set of new teeth to the patients.
Prevent future bone loss in the jaw
Without the presence of teeth, the jaw might suffer from bone loss. This will cause a breakdown affecting the structure of the face. Having ‘All-On’ implants helps to maintain the structure of the jaw bone. The use of removable dentures will make faces appear sunken, and the person will look older. These procedures are the option chosen by many, as the complete set is installed easily and quickly.
Maintains a more youthful facial structure
The ‘All-On’ method keeps the jaw bone’s original structure. These titanium implants help maintain the jawbone by stimulating it and keeping it strong. The titanium screws which are surgically inserted into the jaw will merge with the jaw bone over time. This reduces complete bone degradation, as these implants block impacts, adding biting strength and force.
Better oral health
With the utilization of the ‘All-on-4’, you will no longer experience the hassle of putting expensive adhesives onto your old dentures. The messy cleaning procedures and money you are going to spend over time with dentures will not be a problem, anymore. You just need to maintain normal oral cleaning habits as well as dental check-ups.
Last at least 20 to 25 years
With proper care, these implants will last up to twenty-five years or longer. Although, you might need some adjustments and other dental work over time.
All-on-six:
Also known as Full Dental Implants
This is sometimes referred to as full dental implant restoration or full arch replacement. This utilizes six implants placed in the upper or lower jaw bone to place a set of teeth permanently.
Restore the entire upper or lower arch of teeth in one complete bridge
‘All-on-6’ solves the entire lower and upper sets of teeth right in full bridges. This minimizes the invasive procedures to be done orally, compared to individual oral implants.
The number of Implants required may vary
In ‘All-On-4’, two implants are placed on the upper jaw (maxillary jaw) and two on the lower jaw (mandibular jaw), this is to connect four rows of bridges together while in ‘All-On-6’, two extra implants are added which serve as an anchor to make the bridges tight and fixed.
The success rate is high
Implantation methods of improving people’s oral health have been proven over many years. ‘All-On’ methods have a high success rate of over 90%, dependent on after-surgery care and maintenance.
Recovery time is between four to six months
Estimated full healing takes effect after four to six months, depending on the patient's care measures. During the healing period, you need to carefully follow the recommended dos and don’ts, including the food and drinks you need to consume, and follow precautionary measures.
It is very important for patients to know what method of oral improvement they should undergo. Moreover, they must understand the importance of maintaining oral health and serious consequences of failing to do so, such as bone loss. Early action may help you avoid future problems.
Missing a number of teeth and want to expand your knowledge of the perfect oral treatment for you? Contact dentists at Markham Smile Center today!
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Many people are unaware of how important our oral health is to over overall health. To learn more about this link, you may want to read "It's All in Your Mouth: Biological Dentistry and the Surprising Impact of Oral Health on Whole Body Wellness." (Ad) If nothing else, this book will inspire you to take better care of your teeth!
You can find gifts for retirees and others at my Etsy Store, DeborahDianGifts: http://www.etsy.com/shop/DeborahDianGifts
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Photo credit: Mike Khorev
