All-on-4 Dental Implants: A Complete Guide

While losing teeth is a normal part of the aging process when we're children, most people don't expect to lose teeth as adults. Unfortunately, adult tooth loss is a common occurrence. The average adult has at least three missing teeth by the time they reach age 64.

Missing teeth can affect your bite, smile, and overall oral health. There are many tooth restoration options available. All-on-4 dental implants are a great way to restore your smile and help you get your confidence back.

This blog will discuss what you need to know about the All-on-4 implant procedure. We'll also talk about how it's different than other implant options and if you're a good candidate.

What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants represent a revolutionary approach to tooth replacement. This procedure involves strategically placing four dental implants throughout the jawbone. The placement is designed to fully support the patient's fixed full-arch prosthesis.

Your dentist will insert the titanium implants, or posts, into your jawbone. A custom-made tooth will get popped onto the top of the implant. Many patients can walk out of the office with a fully restored smile in as little as one day.

How Is It Different From Traditional Implants?

The main difference between traditional and All-on-4 dental implants is that traditional implants might require many implants. The patient will only need four implants with All-on-4.

The posterior dental implants also get inserted at a 45º angle. This angle is great for those who are dealing with significant jawbone loss. Patients may not need to go through additional bone grafting procedures when choosing All-on-4 dental implants.

Another benefit of this procedure is the cost of All-on-4 implants. They tend to be less expensive than other tooth replacement solutions.

Am I a Good Candidate for All-On-4 Implants?

Many people should consider All-on-4 implants when exploring tooth restoration options. Some factors of a good candidate for this procedure include:

Current denture wearers
Be missing all or most of their teeth on both or either arches
Non-smoker
Have overall good health
Possess good jawbone density

Your dentist will evaluate your smile and determine if All-on-4 implants are the right choice. They'll let you know what your options are if they decide this isn't the appropriate procedure for you.

What Are the Benefits of All-On-4 Implants?

Patients who want permanent restoration of their missing teeth can experience numerous advantages when choosing All-on-4 implants. You'll get to enjoy so much more than a gorgeous smile with this dental procedure.

Aesthetics

The full-arch dental implants that get attached to these implants are custom-designed to resemble your natural smile and teeth. You'll achieve a natural-looking smile that fits in seamlessly with the rest of your face. Your lips and cheeks will also get supported by your new teeth, eliminating sunken cheeks and wrinkles.

Stability

All-on-4 dental implants fuse to the patient's jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This process creates a stable and strong foundation for the prosthesis. Patients can confidently do the following activities:

Speak
Chew
Bite
Talk

They won't have to worry about their teeth slipping or shifting when they do the above activities.

Swift Procedure and Recovery

As we mentioned earlier, many patients can have functional teeth in one day with All-on-4 dental implants. This is a great benefit if you're hoping to restore your smile without waiting a long time.

Patients can also expect to go through a reduced recovery time and quicker surgical procedure with All-on-4 implants. That's because there are fewer implants used with this option than with other tooth replacement solutions.

Improved Oral Health

You don't have to do anything different when it comes to brushing and flossing your teeth with All-on-4 implants. You can maintain proper oral hygiene and reduce the likelihood of you getting gum disease or other issues.

What Is the All-On-4 Implant Procedure?

There are several steps included in All-on-4 dental implants. The process starts with a general consultation and ends with you receiving a natural-looking smile.

Evaluation and Consultation

Your initial consultation with your oral surgeon serves as the foundation for your implant treatment plan. Some of the items that'll be discussed during this meeting include:

Your dental goals
Medical and dental history
Assessing your oral health

Having an in-depth conversation with your oral surgeon is key to setting realistic expectations for yourself. It also ensures that you're a good candidate for the All-on-4 implant procedure.

Planning Your Treatment

Your oral surgeon will create a customized treatment plan based on the outcome of your initial consultation. They'll conduct a comprehensive dental exam that's more involved than a routine dental check-up. A few things you can expect from this stage include:

3D imaging of sinuses, nerves, and jawbone
Planning of implant placement
Designing the prosthesis
Determining if bone grafting or extraction is needed

Surgery and Preparatory Treatments

Your oral surgeon will remove teeth or conduct bone grafting if needed before the implants get placed. There are multiple sedation and anesthesia options available to ensure our patients experience a pain-free surgery. The four dental implants will be placed to maximize support and stability.

A temporary full-arch prosthesis will be attached to the implants. This allows the patient's gums to heal and seamlessly integrate with the jawbone. You'll regularly visit your oral surgeon over the next few months to ensure the implants are fusing with your jawbone.

The temporary prosthesis will be replaced with permanent and custom-designed teeth once the implants are healed. The patient will need to attend multiple follow-up visits to ensure everything fits properly.

Improve Your Smile and Confidence With All-On-4 Dental Implants

You shouldn't have to feel self-conscious about your smile if you're missing multiple teeth. All-on-4 dental implants provide patients with a wonderful solution to restoring their smile and improving their oral health. Working with an experienced oral surgeon will fill you with confidence.

If you've been searching for "dental implants near me" in the Lutz area, look no further than Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery. Dr. Guerra, our oral surgeon, has over 12 years of experience delivering exceptional results to his patients.

Reach out to our office to schedule a consultation to discuss your options.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Dental Implants in Lutz: A Local Guide to Restoring Your Smile

By Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery • May 16, 2025

Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can also impact your ability to chew, speak (Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research), and feel confident in daily life. Fortunately, for residents of Lutz, Florida, dental implants offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution to restore your smile and oral health. Whether you have recently lost a tooth or have worn dentures for years, understanding your smile restoration options can make a life-changing difference. In this local guide , we will cover everything you need to know about dental implants in Lutz - from how they work to what to expect during treatment, plus how to choose the right local provider for your needs. What Are Dental Implants? A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone where a tooth is missing . This implant replaces the tooth's root and provides a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, which gives the restoration exceptional stability , unlike traditional dentures or bridges that rest on the gums. Dental Implants Benefits Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard in tooth replacement. This is true for several reasons. 1. Natural Look and Feel Implants closely mimic the function and appearance of real teeth. You can chew, speak, and smile without worrying about slippage or discomfort. 2. Long-Lasting Solution Dental implants can last 15 years or more, often a lifetime, with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution over time. 3. Preserve Jawbone Health When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone can deteriorate over time. Implants stimulate the jawbone like a natural tooth root, helping maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss. 4. Improved Comfort and Confidence Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in place, so they feel secure. This eliminates embarrassing moments during meals or conversations. Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Most adults in Lutz who are in good general and oral health may be candidates for dental implants . Key requirements include: Healthy gums Sufficient jawbone density No active periodontal disease Non-smoker or willing to quit Even if you have been missing teeth for a long time, modern bone grafting techniques can often prepare your jaw for implants. A consultation with a local implant dentist in Lutz will include X-rays and possibly a CT scan to determine your eligibility. The Dental Implant Process: What to Expect Dental implant treatment typically occurs in several stages over a few months. Here is a Lutz, FL, dental guide : 1. Consultation and Planning You will meet with a dentist or oral surgeon for a complete evaluation . This may include digital imaging, health history, and discussing your goals. 2. Implant Placement The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone. This procedure is often performed under local anesthesia; most patients experience only mild discomfort afterward. 3. Healing Period (Osseointegration) Over the next 3-6 months in Tampa, Florida , the implant fuses with your jawbone, creating a strong foundation. 4. Abutment Placement After healing, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This will hold the final crown or restoration. 5. Custom Crown or Restoration A dental lab will create a custom crown that matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. Once placed, your new tooth will look and function like the real thing. Types of Dental Implants Depending on your missing teeth, your dentist may recommend one of several implant options . Here they are: Single Tooth Implants This procedure is ideal if you are missing just one tooth. A single crown is placed on an implant post for a seamless restoration. Implant-Supported Bridges It is used when multiple teeth in a row are missing. Implants support the bridge rather than relying on adjacent natural teeth. Implant-Supported Dentures This is a great option for those who have lost all teeth in the upper or lower jaw . These dentures snap onto a few strategically placed implants for maximum stability. How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Lutz? The cost of dental implants in Lutz can vary depending on: Number of implants needed Type of restoration (crown, bridge, denture) Need for bone grafting or sinus lift The experience and specialization of the dental provider An average dental implant (including the crown) can cost between $3,000 and $5,000. While this may seem like a significant investment, many Lutz dental practices offer: Payment plans Dental Financing Insurance coordination It is important to consider the long-term value— implants are more durable and require fewer replacements than bridges or dentures. Finding a Dental Implant Specialist in Lutz When selecting a dentist for smile restoration , look for the following: Specialized training in implantology or oral surgery Modern technology, such as 3D imaging or digital impressions Proven results, including before-and-after photos or patient testimonials Transparent pricing and treatment plans Compassionate care and good communication Consider starting with a consultation at a local practice to learn more about your options and see if you feel comfortable with the team. How to Care for Your Dental Implants Once your implants are in place, maintaining them is straightforward: Brush twice daily and floss around the implant crown or denture. Visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings. Avoid smoking, which can compromise healing and implant success. Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth . With proper care, your implants can last for decades, giving you a confident smile and functional bite for years to come. A Smile Restoration to Last the Ages Dental implants have transformed how we approach tooth replacement, offering Lutz residents a permanent, natural-looking smile restoration solution to boost function and confidence. At TERSA Oral and Facial Surgery , Dr. Andrés E. Guerra-Andrade is uniquely qualified to give you the best dental treatment possible. We use the latest technological advancements and have experience with the most challenging cases . We will treat your condition with the minimum of pain and the fewest possible appointments. Do not wait to get dental implants to boost your smile. We are eager to help you discover all your oral health options.

A woman is getting a botox injection in her face.

Botox in Tampa: Beyond Cosmetics - Medical Applications for Oral and Facial Health

By Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery • April 23, 2025

Explore Botox in Tampa for oral and facial health improvements. Learn its medical benefits and book an appointment today for a healthier smile and skin!

How to Prepare for Your Dental Implant Surgery

By Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery • March 27, 2025

MedicalNewsToday.com reports that scientists have found a connection between oral and cognitive health . They believe that bacteria in the mouth, especially those that cause gum disease, may contribute to cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. All those findings further underscore the importance of maintaining optimal oral hygiene. It can keep your teeth and gums healthy and help maintain long-term brain health. Undergoing dental implant oral surgery is one of the best ways to help keep your oral health in check. Not only does it replace missing teeth, but it helps preserve your gums, jawbone, and remaining pearly whites. To that end, our caring team at TERSA Oral and Facial Surgery in Lutz, FL, put together this dental implant procedure and oral surgery guide. Read on for tips on preparing for and recovering from the treatment. Confirm Eligibility for Dental Implant Oral Surgery The first step in preparing for dental implant oral surgery is scheduling a consultation with a highly experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. They specialize in surgical procedures of the: Mouth Jaws Face Neck Because of their more extensive training and experience, your best option for a doctor for dental implants is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon . During your consultation with one, you will undergo a comprehensive check-up to confirm if you are a good candidate for implant surgery. You will also learn whether there are "prerequisites" to help you enjoy the benefits of dental implants and facilitate smoother oral surgery recovery. Here is what you can expect during the consultation to determine if you can get dental implants . Density and Health of Your Jawbone Your oral surgeon will take X-rays and CT scans during the initial consultation. They will use these diagnostic tools to assess the density and health of your jawbone. It can help them confirm whether your jawbone will give your future, high-quality dental implants a solid, stable base. If there is not enough healthy jawbone, do not worry! Your surgeon can perform a bone graft. Doing so can boost the success rate of your dental implant surgery. Bone grafts use high-quality artificial or natural bone materials. They help fill in gaps and strengthen the jawbone to support implants . Your Oral Health’s Current State According to the U.S. CDC, the top three oral health problems that most affect people's overall health and quality of life are: Gum disease Dental cavities Tooth loss The first two are the leading causes of the third. All three can contribute to even more tooth loss! Moreover, gum disease and tooth decay can interfere with the placement and material of dental implants . For instance, cavities can result in gum infections, and infected gums may not heal properly . For these reasons, your surgeon must first treat existing problems as a crucial step to preparing you for oral surgery. Discussion of the Treatment Plan Your oral surgeon will discuss your implant eligibility and other tooth replacement options . They will explain all pertinent details, including: Advantage and disadvantages Treatment longevity Recovery timeline Dental implant cost vs. those of other options Payment and financing options Your surgeon will also explain all the prerequisites of a partial or complete mouth reconstruction plan . For example, they will inform you if you need treatment for tooth decay or gum disease before the surgery. Your doctor will also explain how many implants you need. They may tell you whether you need just a single implant or are better off with All-On-4 implants . Avoid Alcohol Before and After Surgery Alcohol is okay from time to time, but please refrain from drinking before and immediately after your dental implant oral surgery . It can impair your body's ability to heal and cause unwanted complications . Besides, as the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism points out, alcohol contributes to 200+ health conditions and diseases . So cutting back on its intake can do a lot of good for one's health. Get Good Quality Sleep Getting between 7 and 9 hours of restful, quality sleep is vital to good health. However, it is even more critical if you are undergoing All-On-4 dental implant surgery. Getting enough quality sleep can help you get through the surgery. Being well-rested can also help you feel more relaxed and calm and may even aid in a faster, better recovery . On the other hand, researchers of a study published on Thieme say that poor sleep may increase pain sensitivity . Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions to a T Your highly experienced and compassionate oral surgeon will provide a detailed plan on what you must do before, during, and after the surgery. For instance, they may require you to fast (not eat or drink anything eight hours before the procedure) if you are getting IV sedation . Following this can help ensure the sedative works correctly and that you will feel comfortable as your surgeon works on giving you your teeth for life . Your surgeon will also require you to have someone accompany you during the procedure. It is for your safety, as anesthesia can make you feel woozy or dizzy. Having a responsible driver bring you to and from the surgical facility can help you (and other road users) stay safe after your tooth replacement surgery. You will also receive a list of recommended foods and drinks to have and avoid immediately and days after the procedure. Soft foods, nourishing soups, and Jell-O are must-haves . On the other hand, you must avoid foods that are: Spicy Hard Crispy Require too much chewing Follow all those instructions to recover faster and enjoy your new high-quality implants from your oral and maxillofacial specialist in Lutz, FL. Prepare for a Successful Dental Implant Oral Surgery The success of your dental implant oral surgery depends not only on your oral and maxillofacial surgeon's skills and expertise. You must also prepare yourself by avoiding alcohol, getting enough sleep, and following your doctor's instructions to a T. If you are ready to enjoy a dazzling smile and full mouth functionality with high-quality implants, Dr. Andrés E. Guerra-Andrade and the team at TERSA Oral and Facial Surgery in Lutz, FL, are happy to help! Dr. Guerra-Andrade will use the expertise, knowledge, and skills he has honed for over a decade as an oral surgeon to help you achieve your oral health goals . Learn more about the treatments and services we provide to the Tampa Bay community by calling us today!