Missing teeth can make you embarrassed to smile. Dentures can help, but they can fall out at inopportune times and cause strange whistling noises when you talk. They also have to be taken out when you eat. If you want to improve your smile in a more permanent way, you need to learn more about standard dental implants and All-on-4® implants. Dr. William Gielincki, Jr. is a cosmetic dentist in Jacksonville, FL, who specializes in both of these procedures. Learn about the major difference and which may be right for you.
The Differences
Using the traditional approach to replace a full arch of teeth requires at least six dental implants, the possibility of bone grafts and up to 18 months of treatment. In order to get this many implants, you have to have a lot of healthy bone in your jaw. The treatment is long and can be a bit painful, but would result in a great looking, permanent smile. Standard implants are often used when a single tooth or just a few teeth are missing.
The All-on-4® dental implants can replace a full arch of missing teeth with only four implants that anchor a full denture in place. This treatment option normally only takes six months, and at completion the patient will have a permanent set of teeth. The All-on-4® dental implant is a good option for you if you do not have that much healthy bone throughout your jaw. This treatment is still somewhat painful because you are getting four implants, but it takes less time than traditional implants.
Picking the Right Procedure
The procedure you choose will vary depending on your needs, your budget, the health of your jawbone and what your cosmetic dentist in Jacksonville, FL, thinks. In order to really get the best information, you have to stop in so we can assess your needs in person. The team here will be able to examine the health of your gums and jawbone and help you determine which procedure will give you the best results. Call Dr. Gielincki at 904.688.5276 today to set up your first, life-changing appointment.