Restore your smile in a day with All-on-4 implants in Sterling, VA! For our patients missing most or all of their teeth, implant-supported dentures offer the most stable and natural-looking restoration. Dental implants are tiny posts embedded in the jaw to replace lost tooth roots. Dr. E. Richard Hughes proudly offers the All-on-4® technique, which involves placing just four implants to fully restore your dental arch.
Using this minimally invasive technique, you can arrive at our office with a compromised smile and leave with a fully restored ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. To learn more about whether the All-on-4® method is right for you, start by scheduling a consultation with our experienced implant dentist.
Understanding the All-on-4® Treatment Concept
The All-on-4® method represents a significant advancement in restorative dentistry. During surgery, Dr. Hughes utilizes sophisticated diagnostic tools to determine the optimal placement of just four implants in your jaw to provide exceptional support for a full denture. In many cases, Dr. Hughes can attach an immediate-placement denture during the same appointment, allowing you to experience the benefits of a fully restored smile immediately.
Many Patients are All-on-4® Candidates
Bone loss is a common consequence of tooth loss. Traditional implant placement often requires bone grafting to compensate for this bone loss. However, the All-on-4® method can be an excellent option for many patients who have experienced some degree of bone atrophy. By strategically placing the implants at a slight angle, the All-on-4® technique leverages the existing bone structure, making it a viable solution for a wider range of patients.
Ideal candidates for the All-on-4® method typically are:
- Free from medical conditions that could complicate recovery
- Missing most or all of their teeth in the upper or lower arch
- Experiencing dissatisfaction with the function and feel of their current dentures
- Committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene
Why Choose All-on-4®?
Choosing the All-on-4® implant technique at E. Richard Hughes, DDS offers numerous advantages, including:
- Reduced Recovery Time. The minimally invasive nature of the All-on-4 procedure often translates to a shorter recovery period.
- Convenience. With immediate-placement dentures, you can enjoy a fully functional smile immediately following surgery.
- Enhanced Aesthetics. Implant-supported dentures provide a more secure fit and a more natural-looking appearance.
- Cost-Effectiveness. Often more cost-effective than traditional implant procedures due to fewer implants and a single surgical procedure.
- Improved Stability. The angled implant placement enhances stability and provides a secure foundation for your new denture.
How Are All-on-4® Dental Implants Placed?
Your All-on-4® dental implant treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation at our Sterling, VA dental implant center. During this consultation, Dr. Hughes will address any questions you may have regarding the procedure and recovery.
If you are a suitable candidate, the implant placement surgery can be performed in our office. Dr. Hughes also offers sedation options to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Hughes will make small incisions in your gums and carefully place the four implants into your jawbone. Following implant placement, a temporary denture is attached to the implants, allowing you to leave the office with a fully functional smile.
Post-Surgical Care
While the All-on-4® technique minimizes recovery time, it's essential to follow post-operative instructions carefully. Dr. Hughes will provide you with specific instructions regarding pain management, oral hygiene, and dietary restrictions.
Over the next four to six months, the implants will fuse with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. Once osseointegration is complete, you will return to our office for an impression to be taken for your custom-made permanent denture. This denture will be fabricated by a trusted dental laboratory to ensure a precise fit and natural appearance.
Learn More About All-on-4 For Your Smile
If you are missing teeth and considering your options for tooth replacement, Dr. Hughes can help. As a fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry with over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hughes possesses the expertise to guide you through the All-on-4® process. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how All-on-4® can help restore your smile!