Losing most or all of your teeth affects your appearance, changes how you eat, how you speak, and how you feel about smiling. Traditional removable dentures address the aesthetics, but they sit on the gums rather than anchoring in the jaw. This means that movement, discomfort, and dietary restrictions are ongoing issues. All-on-4® implants in Ocala, FL, offer a more stable, fixed alternative.
What Are All-on-4Implants?
All-on-4 is an implant-supported full arch restoration. Our dentists place four implant posts at strategic points in the jaw; two upright at the front and two angled at the back to maximize contact with available bone. We then attach a full arch of teeth to these four implants, which creates a fixed implant denture that does not come out for cleaning or sleeping.
Because the rear implants are placed at an angle, All-on-4 implants are especially helpful for patients with bone loss. Tilting the implant posts in this way places them closer to the front of the jaw, where bone is typically denser. This placement often eliminates the need for bone grafting before treatment.
Who Are Good Candidates for All-on-4?
The All-on-4 procedure works well if you are missing most or all of your teeth, or you have remaining teeth that we cannot save. Good general health and sufficient bone volume at the implant sites are key factors to a successful outcome. Dr. Sutton evaluates each patient with detailed imaging before recommending treatment.
Fixed Implant Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures
Fixed implant dentures do not shift during eating or speaking. Like natural teeth, the implants stimulate the bone growth in the jaw, helping slow the bone loss that occurs after tooth extraction. Most patients find implant-supported dentures significantly more comfortable and functional than removable alternatives.
Starting Your All-on-4® Journey in Ocala
If missing teeth affect your quality of life, All-on-4 implants in Ocala, FL, may be worth discussing with your dentist. Contact Sutton Dentistry to schedule a consultation and find out whether fixed implant dentures are the right solution for your situation.