How the All-on-4 Technique Works
The genius of All-on-4s in Scottsdale lies in the strategic placement of four dental implants that maximize contact with available bone. Two implants go in vertically at the front of your jaw where bone tends to be denser, while two angled implants are placed toward the back, avoiding areas where bone loss typically occurs first. This configuration distributes force evenly across the arch and often eliminates the need for bone grafting that traditional implant approaches require.
During your procedure, Dr. Santoro places the four titanium implants into precise positions determined through detailed 3D imaging and treatment planning. These implants serve as the foundation for your new teeth, much like posts support a deck. Once the implants are secure, we attach a temporary set of prosthetic teeth on that same day, so you never have to go without teeth during the healing process.
Who Benefits Most from All-on-4s in Scottsdale
This approach works exceptionally well for several specific situations. Patients who have lost most or all of their teeth in one arch find All-on-4 far more stable and comfortable than traditional dentures. Those struggling with failing teeth due to advanced decay or gum disease can have problematic teeth extracted and replaced in a single treatment plan.
Ideal Candidates Include:
- People wearing dentures who want permanent, stable teeth
- Patients with multiple failing teeth that need extraction
- Those who have been told they don’t have enough bone for traditional implants
- Anyone seeking a fixed solution rather than removable appliances
- Individuals looking to restore full chewing function and confidence
The beauty of this treatment is that it addresses bone loss concerns that often prevent traditional implant placement. The angled posterior implants engage bone in areas that remain dense even after years of tooth loss, making All-on-4 possible for many patients who thought implants weren’t an option.
What to Expect During Your Treatment Journey
Your All-on-4 process begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including detailed CT scans that map your jaw structure in three dimensions. This imaging allows Dr. Santoro to plan exact implant positions before your surgery day arrives, ensuring optimal placement for long-term success.
The Procedure Day
Most patients receive sedation to stay comfortable throughout the procedure, which typically takes several hours to complete. If you have remaining teeth in the arch being treated, those come out first. The implants then go into their planned positions, and the temporary prosthetic attaches to those implants before you leave our office.
Yes, you really do walk out with teeth the same day. These temporary teeth look natural and function well enough for you to eat soft foods immediately, though you’ll need to be gentle during the initial healing period.
The Healing Phase
Over the next three to six months, your implants fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This biological bonding creates the rock-solid foundation that makes All-on-4 so stable and long-lasting. During this time, you’ll wear your temporary prosthetic and return for periodic checkups to monitor healing progress.
Your Permanent Prosthetic
Once osseointegration completes, we take new impressions and create your permanent prosthetic. This final restoration uses premium materials designed to withstand years of normal chewing force while maintaining its appearance. The teeth are crafted to complement your facial features and give you a natural-looking smile that functions just like natural teeth.
Living with Your All-on-4 Restoration
Daily care for All-on-4s in Scottsdale resembles caring for natural teeth more than it does maintaining dentures. You brush your prosthetic teeth and the areas where they meet your gums, use specialized floss or interdental brushes to clean around the implants, and come in for regular professional cleanings. No soaking in cups overnight, no adhesives, no worrying about them slipping at the wrong moment.
Most patients report being able to eat foods they haven’t enjoyed in years—crunchy vegetables, chewy meats, fresh apples. The stability of implant-supported teeth means you can bite with confidence and chew with the kind of force that traditional dentures simply can’t handle.
Investment in Your Quality of Life
All-on-4 treatment represents a significant investment, but consider what you’re gaining. This solution typically lasts 20 years or more with proper care, making it more cost-effective over time than repeatedly replacing failing traditional dentures. Beyond the financial consideration, there’s the immeasurable value of being able to eat what you want, speak clearly, and smile without self-consciousness.
The procedure also preserves your facial structure by stimulating the jawbone, preventing the sunken appearance that often develops after years of tooth loss. Your face maintains its natural contours, helping you look more youthful and vibrant.
Ready to explore how All-on-4 dental implants can transform your smile and your life? Contact Scottsdale Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Clark and Dr. Joseph Santoro and take the first step toward permanent, confident teeth.
