All-on-4 Dental Implants: What to Expect Before and After Treatment

TL;DR

• All-on-4 implants replace a full set of teeth in one jaw using just four implants.
• Before surgery, the dentist checks your health, teeth, gums, and jaw, and may remove teeth or treat gums if needed.
• During the procedure, four implants are placed under anaesthesia, and temporary teeth are often fitted the same day.
• After surgery, some swelling and tenderness are normal. Soft foods are recommended, and proper oral hygiene helps with healing.
• In the weeks after, implants fuse with the jawbone, you can eat firmer foods gradually, and check-ups make sure healing is on track.
• In the UK, the cost is usually £10,000 to £20,000 per arch, depending on the work needed and materials used.
• To keep implants healthy, brush and floss daily, go for regular check-ups, and avoid hard foods.

What are All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are a tooth replacement method for people who have lost most or all of their teeth in one arch. Instead of placing separate implants for each missing tooth, this technique uses four strategically positioned implants to support a full set of fixed prosthetic teeth. 

This approach helps make better use of available bone and, in many cases, reduces the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting. Even so, the success of All-on-4 implants depends heavily on proper preparation, surgical precision, and careful post-treatment care. 

For this reason, it is important to understand each stage of the process. In this guide, we will explain what patients should expect before and after All-on-4 dental implants.

What to Expect Before All-on-4 Dental Implant Treatment

Proper preparation before All-on-4 dental implants is key to a safe procedure and long-lasting results. Here is what you can expect:

Initial Consultation and Assessment

At your first visit, the dentist will carefully check your mouth and overall health to see if All-on-4 implants are right for you:

• The dentist will check your medical history to make sure any conditions or medications won’t affect healing.
• They will examine your teeth and gums, checking for infections, decay, or bone loss.
• X-rays or 3D scans may be taken to see the structure and density of your jawbone, which helps plan where the implants should go.
• Based on these checks, the dentist will create a treatment plan customised to your needs.

Pre-Treatment Preparations

Before the implants are placed, certain steps may be necessary to create a healthy foundation:

• Tooth extraction: Any damaged or decayed teeth that could interfere with implant placement are removed.
• Gum and bone treatments: Existing gum disease is treated, and in some cases, minor bone grafts are performed to strengthen the jawbone.
• Pre-surgery instructions: The dentist provides guidelines on diet, medications, and oral hygiene. Lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding smoking, are recommended to promote faster healing. The dentist may also ask you to fast for 6 to 8 hours before surgery. 

Since the procedure is done under sedation or general anaesthesia, it is important to arrange for someone to take you home afterward.

Understanding the All-on-4 Dental Implants Cost

The All-on-4 dental implants cost in the UK typically ranges from £10,000 to £20,000 per arch, depending heavily on:

• Treatment complexity: The total cost can go up if more teeth need replacing or if extractions or bone grafts are needed.
• Materials used: Implants and teeth made from high-quality materials last longer but usually cost more.
• Clinic and location: Prices can vary based on the clinic, its reputation, the city, and the technology they use.

What To Expect During the All-on-4 Implant Procedure?

The All-on-4 dental implant procedure is meant to replace a complete arch of teeth using just four implants. Here’s what typically happens during the surgery:

1. Preparation: The dentist cleans the mouth and may remove any remaining damaged teeth if necessary.

2. Sedation: Most patients receive local anaesthesia, which numbs the area being treated. This makes sure you are comfortable during the procedure.

3. Placement of implants: Four implants are strategically positioned in the jawbone to provide strong support for the new teeth. Two implants are placed at the front and two at an angle at the back to maximise stability.

4. Attachment of temporary teeth: In most cases, a temporary set of teeth is placed onto the implants the same day, allowing patients to leave the clinic with functional teeth.

5. Final restoration: After a healing period of several months, once the implants have fully integrated with the jawbone, the temporary teeth are replaced with a custom-made permanent prosthesis.

Overall, the All-on-4 process usually involves three to five visits, depending on individual needs and healing progress. The surgery itself typically takes around 2 to 4 hours per arch. 

What to Expect After All-on-4 Dental Implant Surgery?

Here’s what you can expect after your All-on-4 dental implant surgery:

Immediate Aftermath (First Few Days)

In the first few days after surgery, some swelling, tenderness, or minor bleeding around the gums is normal. Most patients can eat soft foods, and pain can be managed with prescribed medication.

The First Week

Swelling and bruising usually peak within the first couple of days and gradually subside over the week. Gentle brushing and the use of prescribed mouth rinses help prevent infection. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity to ensure proper healing.

Weeks 2-6 & Beyond

During this period, the implants start to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. You can gradually introduce firmer foods as recommended by your dentist. Routine check-ups help the dentist track your healing and make any needed adjustments.

Before and After All-on-4 Dental Implants: Results and Changes

Based on what we’ve seen in our patients, All-on-4 implants bring noticeable improvements, including:

• Better appearance and facial shape: The implants support your lips and cheeks, helping restore the natural shape of your face. This can reduce the sunken look that often develops when teeth are missing and make your smile look fuller.
• Easier chewing and speaking: With a stable set of teeth, patients can chew food properly and speak clearly. This is much easier than with loose dentures, which can slip or feel uncomfortable.
• More confidence and comfort: Fixed teeth feel natural and secure. Patients can eat, talk, and smile without worry, which often makes them feel more confident and comfortable in daily life.

How To Maintain All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants can last 15 to 20 years, or even longer with proper care. Here are some recommendations by our experts at Dental & Wellness London to extend the lifespan of your implants:

• Brush twice regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth and protect gums.
• Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.
• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the prosthetic teeth.
• Quit smoking to support healing and long-term implant health.
• Use a night guard if you grind your teeth to prevent wear or damage.
• Report any pain, swelling, or loosening of teeth to your dentist promptly.

Bottom Line

All-on-4 dental implants offer a long-term solution for those who have lost most or all of their teeth, helping restore both function and confidence. With careful planning, precise surgery, and proper aftercare, patients can enjoy improved appearance, easier chewing, and clearer speech.

Choosing the right provider can make a significant difference in your experience and results. At Dental & Wellness London, our implants have a 95 to 98% success rate, and our team ensures personalised guidance throughout the entire process.

If you are thinking about getting dental implants in Islington, we are here to help you achieve a healthy, lasting smile with care and expertise. For expert dental treatment in Islington, London, book an appointment today:

Phone: 02081274567

Email: reception@dentalwellnesslondon.co.uk

Location: 222 Essex Road, London N1 3AP

FAQs

Who can get All-on-4 implants?

People who have lost most or all of their teeth, or have teeth that cannot be saved, can get All-on-4 implants. Your dentist will also check if your jawbone is strong enough.

How are All-on-4 implants different from normal implants?

Normal implants usually need one implant for each missing tooth. All-on-4 uses only four implants to hold an entire set of teeth, so the surgery is faster and easier.

How long do All-on-4 implants last?

With good care, they can last 15 to 20 years or more. Brushing, cleaning, and regular dental visits are very important.

What should I do before getting All-on-4 dental implants?

Before getting All-on-4 dental implants, you should have a complete dental check-up. Make sure to discuss your full medical history with your dentist. Follow all pre-surgery instructions, such as fasting or arranging transport home.

What can I expect after All-on-4 dental implant surgery?

After the surgery, you may have swelling, bruising, or mild pain for a few days. Eating soft foods and maintaining good oral hygiene is important. Your dentist will schedule follow-ups to monitor healing.

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