Traditional dentures have long been a solution for missing teeth, but for many patients, they come with frustrations—slippage, discomfort, the need for messy adhesives, and changes in facial shape due to bone loss. If you’re one of the many people seeking a more secure, natural-feeling alternative, All-on-4 implant-supported dentures may be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
Our experienced dentists in Buxton offer the advanced All-on-4 system (locking dentures) to help patients regain confidence, comfort, and long-term function. Whether you’re currently wearing dentures or exploring your options for full-arch tooth replacement, the team here at Saco River Dentistry explains what you need to know about making the switch:
Why Patients Switch from Traditional Dentures
While dentures can effectively restore the appearance and basic function of a smile, they often fall short when it comes to comfort and long-term stability. Common concerns patients report include:
- Loose or shifting dentures
- Soreness or irritation on the gums
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- Impaired speech or taste (especially with upper dentures)
- Embarrassment in social settings due to slippage
- Bone loss over time that alters facial structure
These challenges can impact quality of life. That’s why many patients seek a more permanent, secure, and natural-feeling restorative dentistry solution—and that’s where All-on-4 can make a life-changing difference.
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is an implant-supported denture system that replaces an entire arch of missing teeth using just four strategically placed dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesives, All-on-4 implant dentures are fixed in place and anchored directly to the jawbone. This offers exceptional stability and a closer resemblance to natural teeth in terms of appearance, function, and sensation. It’s often a great fit for patients who want the benefits of dental implants but don’t want—or aren’t candidates for—a full set of individual implants.
The Benefits of Switching to All-on-4
Making the transition to All-on-4 can improve many aspects of one’s daily life. Some of the most significant potential benefits include:
- Superior Stability: No slipping or clicking—All-on-4 prosthetics are locked in place.
- Improved Chewing Power: Enjoy a wider range of foods, including firmer and crunchier options.
- No Adhesives: Say goodbye to sticky pastes or glues.
- Jawbone Preservation: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, reducing bone loss and helping maintain facial structure.
- Comfort: Because the denture doesn’t simply rest on the gums, there can be less irritation and fewer sore spots.
- Natural Aesthetics: All-on-4 is custom-crafted to look and feel like your natural smile.
What to Expect During the Transition
1. Consultation and Evaluation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at Saco River Dentistry. One of our dentists will assess your oral health, review your medical history, and utilize advanced imaging technology to determine whether you’re a candidate for All-on-4 implant dentures.
Even if you’ve been told in the past that you lack the bone density for traditional implants, you may still qualify for All-on-4 thanks to its efficient design and implant placement technique.
2. Treatment Planning
We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include extracting any remaining teeth if necessary, preparing the jaw for implants, and selecting the design for your final restoration.
3. Implant Placement
During the surgical implantation procedure, four dental implants are placed into the jawbone. These implants serve as secure anchors for the denture. In many cases, a temporary restoration can be placed the same day so you won’t leave without teeth.
4. Healing and Integration
Over the next few months, the implants should fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This can create a strong, permanent foundation. You’ll be provided with a temporary prosthesis while healing takes place.
5. Final Prosthetic Placement
Once healing is complete, your final denture will be attached. This custom-made restoration is designed for long-term comfort, beauty, and function.
Is All-on-4 Right for Me?
Ideal candidates for All-on-4 are generally:
- Missing all or most teeth in one or both arches
- Currently wearing or considering traditional dentures and seeking a more stable solution
- In good general health and able to undergo minor oral surgery
- Looking for a fixed (non-removable) tooth replacement option
If you have mild to moderate bone loss, you may still qualify for All-on-4 without the need for bone grafting. Our team will determine your candidacy during the initial evaluation.
All-on-6 implant dentures offer another implant-supported denture option that may be appropriate for patients who require additional implants for the best possible stabilization. Our dentist will answer any questions you may have and recommend the ideal solution once your needs have been evaluated.
Life After All-on-4: What to Expect
All-on-4 may just feel more like your natural teeth than any other type of dental restoration. You should be able to speak, chew, laugh, and smile with confidence, knowing your teeth are securely in place.
Care and maintenance are straightforward: brush and floss daily, use a water flosser as needed, and attend regular check-ups and cleanings. Because the dentures are fixed, you won’t need to remove them for cleaning or soaking.
Ready to Upgrade Your Smile?
Switching from dentures to All-on-4 is a big decision—but for many, it’s a transformative one. At Saco River Dentistry, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way with honest advice, advanced technology, and compassionate care. If you’re ready for a more confident, stable, and comfortable solution for missing teeth, All-on-4 may be right for you.
Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and find out if you’re a candidate for this innovative treatment.
