Now that you understand the all-on-four procedure, let’s explore how it compares to other implant options. While all-on-four offers a streamlined approach, traditional implants might be a better fit for certain situations. Let’s delve into the key differences, pros, and cons.

Endosteal

Endosteal implants, sometimes called root-form implants, are prosthetic teeth or bridges that are supported by artificial dental roots and are placed into the jawbone. Made from titanium, they act like anchors in your jawbone, providing a strong and natural-looking foundation for your new teeth.

These implants are ideal for replacing single teeth or several teeth, especially if you have enough healthy jawbone. Plus, unlike some bridges, they won’t harm your surrounding healthy teeth.

PROS

• Offers lasting and reliable tooth replacement
• Enhances chewing and biting with a secure base for prosthetic teeth
• Helps maintain jawbone density and facial structure
• Forms a strong, stable connection with the jawbone

CONS

• Involves invasive surgery and prolonged recovery
• Limited to patients with sufficient jawbone density
• More expensive than dentures or bridges

Subperiosteal

Subperiosteal implants are placed beneath the gums but on top of the jawbone, unlike endosteal implants which are inserted into the jaw.

These implants include a personalized metal framework designed to match the jawbone’s contours, along with posts or screws that extend through the gums to support replacement teeth or dental prosthetics.

They’re typically suggested when there’s not enough jawbone for traditional implants, making them suitable for individuals with substantial bone loss from issues like periodontal disease or tooth loss.

PROS

• Ideal for patients lacking sufficient jawbone
• Less invasive compared to drilling into the jawbone, leading to reduced discomfort and quicker recovery
• Offers a stable base for dental restorations like crowns or bridges, as they sit atop the jawbone

 CONS

• May not be suitable for those with significant bone loss or gum disease
• Higher risk of infection due to placement beneath the gum tissue
• Pricier than conventional implants due to custom fabrication and specialized placement techniques

Zygomatic Implants

Unlike conventional implants, zygomatic implants are cemented into the cheekbone as opposed to the jawbone. They reach into the maxillary sinus, avoiding the requirement for bone grafting that is frequently required for traditional implants. When patients experience significant bone loss in the upper jaw as a result of trauma, periodontal disease, or extended denture use, these implants are frequently used.

PROS

• Allow patients who have lost a significant amount of maxillary bone to receive dental implants.
• Provide bridges or temporary teeth with immediate support.
• Remove the need for the invasive and time-consuming bone grafting procedure.

 CONS

• Involve a more difficult and involved process in terms of technology than standard implants.
• May have possible side effects such as nerve injury or sinus perforation
• More expensive than conventional dental implants

All-on-four dental implants are often preferred over other types for a few key reasons:

• With all-on-four implants, only four implants are needed in your jawbone, simplifying the dental process and speeding up recovery compared to other options.
• Unlike zygomatic implants and other alternatives, all-on-four implants don’t require bone grafting. This means shorter surgical times, less pain, and no extra treatments needed.
• You often get immediate support for a temporary tooth or bridge with all-on-four implants.
• All-on-four implants might be cheaper than more complex options. You could save money in the long run since you need fewer implants and no additional procedures like bone grafting.