What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 is a full-arch implant technique that uses just four strategically placed implants to support an entire row of replacement teeth. Rather than replacing each tooth individually, the prosthesis spans the full arch and anchors to those four implants for a fixed, secure fit. Two implants are placed vertically at the front of the jaw, and two are angled toward the back to maximize contact with available bone. This design often allows us to skip bone grafting entirely, thereby shortening overall treatment time and reducing the number of procedures.
The result is a fixed arch that functions and feels much closer to natural teeth than a removable denture ever could.
How the Treatment Process Works
Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the process is. Here’s what to expect:
- Evaluation and imaging: We start with a thorough exam and detailed scans to map your jawbone and assess bone density and implant positioning.
- Treatment planning: Dr. Igor Lantsberg reviews your case and coordinates with our lab to design an arch that fits your bite and facial structure.
- Implant placement and provisional arch: Surgery and your temporary arch are typically completed in a single appointment, so you leave with functional teeth that same day.
- Healing and final restoration: After the implants integrate with the bone over several months, we place your final prosthesis and fine-tune the fit.
We guide you through each phase and stay available for questions between appointments.
Key Benefits of All-On-4 Implants in Greer
All-on-4 addresses a range of challenges that come with significant tooth loss or denture wear:
- Restored chewing function that lets you eat without restriction or discomfort
- A fixed solution that eliminates the instability of removable dentures
- Reduced treatment time compared to replacing multiple individual teeth
- Preservation of jawbone density by putting the implants under functional load
- Improved speech and facial support that often diminishes with tooth loss
For patients who have been living with loose dentures or avoiding certain foods, these changes can feel significant.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Patients with many failing or missing teeth, those who have been wearing ill-fitting dentures for years, and those who have been told they need full extractions are often strong candidates for All-on-4 dental implants in Greer. Good general health, a commitment to follow-up care, and adequate bone volume are the main factors we assess during your evaluation.
Bone density is especially important. In many cases, the angled placement of the rear implants allows you to work with the bone you have rather than building it up first. If you’ve been told grafting is necessary, it’s worth having a conversation with us before assuming that’s your only option.
If dental anxiety has kept you from pursuing treatment, we offer nitrous oxide and a calm clinical environment to help you feel at ease. And if you’re facing pain or urgent tooth loss right now, our emergency dentistry page outlines what to do first.
Caring for Your All-On-4 Arch
All-on-4 implants are designed to last for decades with proper maintenance. That includes:
- Regular checkups to monitor healing and prosthesis fit
- Consistent oral hygiene habits, including cleaning around and under the arch
- Routine imaging to track bone health over time
- Prompt follow-up if anything feels loose or uncomfortable
We schedule follow-up visits to stay ahead of any issues and make sure your investment holds up over the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do All-on-4 implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular professional care, the implants themselves can last decades. The prosthesis may need adjustment or replacement over time, which we monitor at your checkup visits.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients describe post-surgical soreness as manageable. We provide clear post-op instructions and are available if you have concerns during recovery.
Can All-on-4 be combined with other cosmetic work?
Yes. If you’re interested in improving the overall appearance of your restoration, we can discuss options during your treatment planning. Our before-and-after gallery includes full-arch cases that show what’s possible.
What financing options are available?
We accept CareCredit, Cherry, and major credit and debit cards. Our financing page has details on current options.
Who performs the procedure?
Dr. Peter McPherson leads implant care at our practice. You can read more about our approach and team on the meet the doctor page.
Schedule a Consultation at Twin Falls Family Dentistry
If missing or failing teeth have been affecting your daily life, All-on-4 dental implants in Greer are worth a closer look. Use our contact page to request an appointment or get directions to our office. We’ll walk you through your options and help you decide whether full-arch implants are the right fit for your situation.