How long do all-on-4 dental implants last?
All 4 dental implants are designed to be a long-term, possibly lifelong, solution with proper care. The longevity of the implants themselves can exceed 25 years to a lifetime, depending on factors such as oral hygiene, lifestyle choices (e.g., avoiding tobacco products), and regular dental visits. The prosthetic teeth attached to the implants, while highly durable, may require replacement or adjustment over time due to normal wear and tear. Regular check-ups with Dr. Jebrini will ensure that your implants and prosthetics remain in optimal condition.
Is the procedure painful?
While any surgical procedure can involve some discomfort, the all-on-4 dental implant procedure is performed under sedation to ensure patient comfort. Options for sedation include local anesthesia, oral sedatives, or IV sedation, depending on your needs and preferences. Post-surgery discomfort is typically mild to moderate and can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter pain relievers. Dr. Jebrini and his team are committed to ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure and will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help manage any post-operative discomfort.
How do I care for my implants and prosthetics?
Caring for your all-on-4 dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth but requires some specific considerations to ensure their longevity. Daily brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup around the implants and prosthetics. Special brushes and floss designed for dental implants can help clean hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for monitoring the health of your implants and the surrounding tissue. Dr. Jebrini may also recommend specific dental hygiene products or techniques tailored to your needs.
Can I eat normally with implant dentures?
Yes, one of the significant benefits of all-on-4 dental implants is the ability to eat a wide range of foods without the restrictions often associated with traditional dentures. Once the healing process is complete and your permanent prosthetics are fully integrated, you can enjoy your favorite foods with confidence. However, it’s advisable to start with softer foods and gradually reintroduce harder or chewier foods as you adjust to your new teeth. Dr. Jebrini will guide you on how to best approach your diet immediately following surgery and as you adapt to your implants.
Can full-mouth dental implants fail, and what are the risks?
Although all-on-4 dental implants have a high success rate, as with any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks and the potential for failure. Factors that can contribute to implant failure include poor oral hygiene, smoking, pre-existing medical conditions (such as diabetes or osteoporosis), and inadequate jawbone density. However, careful planning, patient selection, and post-operative care can significantly minimize these risks. Dr. Jebrini will discuss all potential risks and how they can be mitigated during your initial consultation.
What happens if I don’t have enough jawbone for implants?
Insufficient jawbone density doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting all-on-4 dental implants. Techniques such as bone grafting can be employed to enhance the jawbone’s volume, making it suitable for implants. Additionally, the strategic placement of the four implants in areas of the jaw where bone density is typically higher can also make this procedure feasible for patients with varying levels of bone loss. Dr. Jebrini will evaluate your bone structure and discuss all available options to ensure the best outcome for your situation.