All On Four Columbus GA | Implant Dentures

All On Four An Overview

Replacing a full arch of teeth is now achievable by using as few as four strategic dental implants to secure a cosmetic hybrid denture. The key to a lasting and stable result is thorough treatment planning that includes a full evaluation of all aspects of your smile. Dr. Caves works in tandem with a local oral surgeon to help patients restore a beautiful, functional new smile using the All On Four® process.

Am I A Candidate for All On Four?

The All On Four procedure has evolved to enable patients who may have been previously denied the opportunity to secure a denture with dental implants due to poor bone health or other dental concerns. Although significant issues may need to be resolved with grafting procedures, this unique process can utilize a range of implant sizes and uses diagnostic imaging to plan the strategic placement of implants.

To determine if you are a good candidate for All On Four, Dr. Caves will use 3-D imagery to evaluate your oral structures and discuss your goals for the appearance and function of your new smile. A personalized treatment plan will be created to meet your needs, and Dr. Caves will explain what you can expect and the steps involved in the placement of your new implant denture.

I can’t say enough about how happy I am with Dr. Caves and his staff. I started the “All on 4” dental implant process with another dentist and oral surgeon but the price kept changing so I decided to look elsewhere. I made a few calls and Dr. Caves staff got me in the following week. When I met with Dr. Caves, he was super nice, easy to talk to and was upfront and fully transparent about the price. He helped line me up with an oral surgeon and the dental lab who all worked together for this surgery which was a MAJOR decision for anyone considering it. A few things that stick out to me about his office is that there is very little waiting and they work their appointments tight and do a great job of getting you in and out which is important to me. The other thing is that he and his staff are all genuinely nice and very down to earth. I have zero regrets and I am forever grateful that I went from a mouth of 19 crowns, broken teeth and years of future work to a full set of teeth. If you are considering the “All on 4” surgery, Dr. Caves and his team should definitely be your first call. – Alex Lane

All On Four What to Expect

The All On Four process will begin with a consultation to discuss your goals, evaluate your dental health, and decide upon the treatment plan. Dr. Caves will take digital x-rays and 3-D images using a CT scanner for a comprehensive picture of your entire oral system, including jaw bone and nerve structure. This is an important part of treatment planning and provides a foundation for choosing the type, number, and placement of dental implants.

The next step is to take dental impressions and begin planning the appearance of your new smile, from tooth shape to color. Existing natural teeth and photographs can be used to design your new denture for the most natural-looking result. Dr. Caves will go over what to expect on the day of placement, working closely with his local surgical partner to plan for any necessary tooth extractions and the placement of the implants.

The results of treatment planning are realized on the day your new denture is permanently secured to implants that are placed on the same day. You will leave our office with a new smile that will give you back the ability to chew food and speak more confidently.

Although your new denture is secure and not removable, it is considered a temporary denture and will be replaced after several months of healing time. At this point, you will come to our office for a new set of dental impressions so that your final denture will be as fitted as possible, accommodating the subtle changes that may have occurred in the shape of the gums or the jaw structure as tissues heal.

Your final denture will be permanently secured to your implants, and the temporary one can serve as a backup in the case of damage or a dental problem.

All On Four FAQs

Who is a candidate for All-on-4 implants?: Candidates for All-on-4 implants are adults with multiple missing teeth or failing teeth who want a fixed alternative to dentures. Adequate bone density is necessary, although the angled placement reduces the need for bone grafts in many cases. Candidates should be in good general health and free from uncontrolled conditions that affect healing. A thorough evaluation by an implant dentist determines suitability. Even patients with bone loss may qualify with minimal preparatory procedures.
How long does the All-on-4 procedure take?: The All-on-4 procedure usually involves multiple steps. Implant placement is completed in one surgical session, often allowing immediate temporary teeth. Osseointegration occurs over 3–6 months, during which the implants bond with the jawbone. Once healing is complete, the final prosthetic teeth are attached. The overall process is faster than traditional implant treatments that require multiple implants per tooth.
How successful are All-on-4 implants?: All-on-4 implants have high success rates, often exceeding 95% when performed by an experienced dentist. Success depends on factors such as oral health, bone quality, and patient compliance. Proper aftercare and regular dental visits are essential. Even patients with significant tooth loss or bone loss often achieve excellent outcomes.
How is recovery after All-on-4 implant surgery?: Recovery typically involves mild swelling, bruising, and soreness for several days. Patients are usually given pain management instructions and may need a soft-food diet during the first week. Healing progresses over several months as the implants integrate with the bone. Temporary teeth allow normal function during recovery. Following aftercare instructions is critical for successful outcomes.
How do All-on-4 implants affect speech?: All-on-4 implants can improve speech compared to traditional dentures. Because the prosthetic arch is fixed, it does not move or slip during talking. Patients can speak more clearly and confidently. Initial adaptation may involve minor adjustments. Over time, speech improves significantly.
Can All-on-4 implants prevent bone loss?: Yes, the implants stimulate the jawbone, helping prevent the bone loss that occurs after tooth extraction. This maintains facial structure and prevents a sunken appearance. Dentures do not provide this stimulation. Bone preservation is a major advantage of implants. Long-term oral health is supported.
Are All-on-4 implants covered by insurance?: Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans may partially cover implants, while others consider them elective. Dental offices often provide guidance on financing and payment plans. Many patients find All-on-4 implants cost-effective compared to ongoing denture replacements. Insurance and financing options improve accessibility.
Can patients eat normally with All-on-4 implants?: Yes, patients can eat most foods comfortably. The fixed prosthetic arch provides stability, allowing normal biting and chewing. Hard or chewy foods are easier to manage compared to dentures. Proper oral care ensures the implants remain functional long-term. Eating habits gradually return to normal after recovery.
How do All-on-4 implants differ from traditional implants?: Traditional implants may require one implant per missing tooth, often needing more posts and longer treatment. All-on-4 uses only four strategically placed implants per arch. Angled placement often avoids bone grafting. Treatment is faster, less invasive, and more cost-effective. Function and aesthetics are comparable or superior.
Why should missing teeth be replaced with All-on-4 implants?: All-on-4 implants restore function, aesthetics, and oral health. They prevent jawbone loss, maintain facial structure, and improve chewing and speech. Compared to traditional dentures, they are more stable and comfortable. Treatment offers long-term reliability and emotional benefits. All-on-4 implants provide a complete, permanent solution for missing teeth.

All On Four® Columbus, GA

All On Four An Overview

Am I A Candidate for All On Four?

All On Four What to Expect

All On Four FAQs

Why choose Albert Caves DMD?