ALL-on-FOUR™ FAQ
What is the All-on-4™ Dental Implant Treatment?
The All-on-4™ Dental Implant treatment is a non-removable dental prosthesis that replaces a full arch or a full mouth of teeth; using the most advanced technology, Dr. Velasco is able to replace all the teeth in one arch with permanent dental implants in only one day. People that are missing multiple teeth, that have unhealthy or unattractive teeth or dentures that fit poorly can finally have a beautiful, strong and healthy smile, functional teeth that look and feel like normal. The All-on-4™ Dental Implant procedure is performed in a single day; patients arrive in the morning and will leave Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry with a mouthful of new teeth that look and feel natural.
Who is a good candidate for the All-on-4™ procedure?
Almost anyone struggling with tooth loss, dental disease, or is frustrated with dentures that slip may make a good candidate for the All-on-4™ Dental Implant. It is important that the patient be in generally good health and fully understand the procedure. As Dr. Velasco attaches the implants directly into the jawbone, even patients with bone loss can enjoy exceptional results with Dental Implants. Additionally, age is not a limiting factor with the All-on-4™ Dental Implant Treatment.
How is All-on-4™ performed?
To begin, Dr. Velasco will examine your overall health, your existing teeth, the health of your gums, and evaluate your jaw, bone density, and any bone loss. A surgical template of your teeth will be created so that our in-house lab can create your new teeth. Next, Dr. Velasco will extract any loose or unhealthy teeth. He then carefully places each arch in the mouth, securing them into the dense bone of the jaw. A set of temporary teeth are put in place where they will remain until the arches are fully healed. Once the procedure is complete, you will be free to go home. Over time, osseointegration will occur as your jaw and gums bond with the implants. In roughly three months, the healing will be complete, and your permanent teeth will be put into place.
How long will the All-on-4™ procedure take?
Patients will need to arrive at the Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry office in the morning. During this appointment, Dr. Velasco will first work with his surgical team, extract all remaining diseased teeth, place four or five dental implants into your jaw bone and the in coordination with our in-house lab Dr. Velasco will create a mold for the new teeth. The complete procedure takes approximately two to three hours per arch. You will leave the office in the afternoon with a temporary set of teeth in place.
What type of anesthesia is used during the All-on-4™ procedure?
Depending on the individual patient, several different types of anesthesia can be used during the All-on-4™ Dental Implant procedure. These can include including IV sedation, orally administered sedation, or inhalation conscious sedation (nitrous oxide/laughing gas). Patients generally use full sedation provided by a board-certified anesthesiologist. It is the goal of Dr. Velasco and Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry to ensure you have a completely comfortable and safe procedure.
What kind of results can I expect after getting the All-on-4 Dental Implant Procedure?
For those missing the majority of their teeth or struggling with poorly fitting dentures, the All-on-4™ will provide a life-changing sense of confidence and self-esteem. Your new implants will look and feel like natural teeth. You will also be able to eat anything with confidence, talking and smiling with your natural-looking teeth. Even better, the new teeth will continue to look great for years to come.
What can I expect during my recovery from the All-on-4™ Dental Implant Procedure?
As the new teeth are directly connected to the implants, the recovery from the All-on-4™ procedure is easier than with many other implant methods. However, it is common to experience some swelling and bruising after the procedure. Before leaving the office, you will be given detailed instructions on taking care of your new teeth. For the first couple of weeks, you will have a special instruction pertinent to your health, diet and oral care. As the initial weeks pass, you will gradually regain all of your normal eating and hygiene habits until the implants fully heal. At Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry we will strive to guide you and help you during every step of the way.
Will I be ready to eat anything immediately after my All-on-4™ procedure?
Your All-on-4™ Dental Implant Prosthesis will soon give you the ability to eat anything. However, until your new arches have completely healed, you will need to be gentle, sticking with a soft diet and cutting easy to chew food into small pieces. In about three months, your dental implants will be completely integrated to your bone, at this point we can remove your temporaries and deliver your final permanent teeth.
Your permanent teeth can be fabricated from several materials, based on your preference. The final teeth can be made of a very dense polymer (Acrylic) reinforced with a Titanium framework, or they can be fabricated from Zirconia, which is a very strong ceramic. You can discuss with Dr. Velasco what is your best option or which one is your preference.
How much does All-on-4™ cost?
The cost of your All-on-4™ will depend on a variety of factors including the system and type of teeth used. During your consultation with Dr. Velasco and his office coordinator will determine the exact price of your All-on-4™. On average, All-on-4™ Dental Implants will cost from $16,500 to $25,000.
Can I finance my All-on-4™ Dental Implants?
Uptown Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry accepts a variety of payment types, including all major credit cards. We also accept healthcare financing through CareCredit, LendingClub, and Healthcare Finance Solutions. During your consultation appointment , you will speak with our treatment coordinator to learn more about each financing options or apply online through each lender.
