Now that you know what all-on-four dental implants are, it’s time to get down to the details. What does it take to clean a prosthetic arch? How long do all-on-four dental implants last? Find those answers and more in this set of all on 4 dental implants FAQs.
How Do You Clean All-on-Four Dental Implants?
The day-to-day cleaning for all-on-four dental implants is much like your natural teeth. Brush your teeth once in the morning and once at night to remove food debris and bacteria. The good news is, you don’t have to floss! That’s right, your permanent prostheses will not require any flossing because your gums do not connect to the replacement teeth.
Once a year, you will need to see a dentist for a professional teeth cleaning. Your dentist will remove your arch, clean the teeth in detail, check for any issues with the teeth, and then re-secure the arch to your dental implants. The process does not take any longer than a standard teeth cleaning appointment.
How Long Do All on 4 Implants Last?
All-on-four dental implants can last for 25+ years with proper maintenance. They are considered a permanent solution for teeth replacement, though they may not necessarily last a lifetime. Your prosthetic teeth will be more susceptible to aging than your dental implants. This is because they go through more wear and tear in your daily usage. Nevertheless, you can enjoy your beautiful new smile for years to come, as long as you take care of it.
Is the Prosthetic Arch Removable?
You cannot remove your arch. Only a dentist can do this. Yes, the arch is removable for teeth cleanings, but it is not something you can pop in and out of your mouth. The arch is tightly secured to your implants so you can speak, chew and smile naturally.
Can All-on-Four Implants Be Used for Top and Bottom Teeth?
All on 4 implants are most common for top teeth, but they can be used for the top or bottom row. If you are getting a full mouth of new teeth, your dentist will ensure the top and bottom align properly to prevent bite issues.
Will the Replacement Teeth Dull Like Natural Teeth?
No! Permanent prostheses are made from zirconia, which does not dull like teeth enamel. You don’t have to worry about teeth whitening and other bleaching procedures. Your new smile will stay white and bright for its entire lifetime.
Are All-on-Four Dental Implants Repairable?
Yes, they can be repaired if you are in an accident or experience an injury. The type of repair you receive will depend on the extent of the damage. In most cases though, we can work with your existing arch. You should not need a whole new set of teeth.
What Are the Benefits of All-on-Four Implants vs. Dentures?
There are many benefits to all on 4 dental implants, but the biggest one is the durability you can enjoy with them. Dentures are supported by your gums. Dental implants lock directly into your jawbone. Your jaws need friction to stay strong. They get this from your teeth roots. With dental implants, you get the same fortifying friction backing your new teeth. Dentures are subject to gum recession and bone loss over time because they lack this important support.
All-on-four dental implants are long-lasting and easy to maintain. The installation process provides you with a temporary set of teeth right away. You don’t have to worry about going without a smile. We would be happy to go over all of the benefits with you during your consultation.
How Do I Get Started with All on 4 Dental Implants?
To get started, contact Clinton Dental Center at (586) 949-5363. We will schedule an in-person consultation to evaluate your smile and find the best treatment path for you. If you are a good candidate for all-on-four dental implants, we can arrange an installation time that suits your schedule. We’ll also answer any questions you have about the process. Give us a call to start your journey to a beautiful custom smile.
