When was the last time you had a thorough dental checkup? Taking things for granted is easy when we’re young and healthy. On the other hand, inadequate dental hygiene and skipped dental visits are major contributors to tooth decay, potentially resulting in tooth loss. This, in turn, may cause a number of long-term problems.

Luckily, with advanced dental medicine, it’s possible to reclaim your self-confidence and get back function and aesthetics to your teeth. In fact, all-on-4 dental implants are stable and structurally sound, which is especially important for patients with missing teeth.

But how do you know if you qualify for All-on-4 dental surgery in Poway? Read on and learn more about it as we answer some frequently asked eligibility and age-related questions.

At what age is it possible to get dental implants?

While tooth decay and tooth loss are typically associated with aging, other factors may also be involved. In most cases, lack of proper dental hygiene is the determining factor, but some people are prone to gum disease or other conditions due to genetic factors.

However, patients typically must be fully grown before they can be considered for dental implants. Though it varies from person to person, most people reach a fully developed jaw by their late teens or early twenties. Still, don’t forget to speak with a dental implant specialist before undergoing surgery to make sure you’re in good physical condition.

Is there an age limit for getting dental implants?

There is no strict upper age limit for getting dental implants. Older adults can also benefit from them, provided they are in good overall health and have the sufficient bone density to support the implants. However, some aspects may complicate the process. So, do not hesitate to speak to your dental implant specialist to discuss your situation. 

Who is not suitable for dental implants?

While dental implants can be an excellent solution for many people, certain factors make some of them unsuitable candidates. These include:

• Insufficient bone volume: Dental implants require a certain amount of healthy bone tissue to anchor them securely. If you have experienced significant bone loss due to gum disease or tooth loss, bone grafting may be necessary as a first step.

• Uncontrolled medical conditions: Certain diseases may hinder the body’s ability to heal properly. For this reason, you should discuss your medical history with your dental specialist first to determine if they’re a safe and viable option for you.

• Active gum disease: Active gum disease can jeopardize the success of dental implants. You must treat and control any gum disease before proceeding with the treatment.

• Heavy smoking: Smoking can negatively impact implant outcomes, as it impairs the body’s healing process and can lead to a higher risk of implant failure. Patients should quit smoking or at least reduce their tobacco consumption before the procedure.

Find out if you qualify for All-on-4 dental surgery in Poway

Still wondering if an all-on-4 procedure is right for you? Or perhaps you’re not sure what to do to prepare? Having lost your natural teeth doesn’t prevent you from enjoying fine cuisine in Poway and beyond, or greeting old friends with confidence. So, make an informed choice and enjoy the many benefits of a healthy smile. 

All-on-4 dental implants offer a durable, long-term solution that can potentially be the transformative opportunity you’ve been seeking and certainly one you will not regret. Get in touch with our office today, so we can help you take that crucial step forward. Our prices are reasonable and our payment plans are flexible, so feel free to contact us for more information!

Embarking on the journey towards a new smile with the All-on-4 dental implant procedure can be both exciting and intimidating. This revolutionary technique offers a permanent, natural-looking solution for individuals with missing teeth, giving them the opportunity to smile and enjoy life with complete confidence. However, proper preparation is essential for a successful outcome. 

Our comprehensive guide to All-on-4 dental implants walks you through every step, from your initial dentist appointment in Poway to the day of the surgery, leaving you with all the knowledge you need.

How can I prepare for my All-on-4 surgery?

Although you’ll receive detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to get ready from your dental implant specialist, we’ll outline the key steps you need to take before undergoing the procedure.

1. Consultation & assessment

A consultation with a qualified dental surgeon is the first step. As part of this appointment, your dentist will examine your oral health, discuss your medical history, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. This may involve taking X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate your jawbone’s condition and plan the precise placement of the dental implants.

2. Pre-procedure dental work

If your specialist identifies any existing oral health issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, you will need to address them before the procedure. This may involve periodontal treatment, extractions, or other dental work to ensure a healthy foundation for implant placement.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking can negatively impact the success of dental implants, as it interferes with the healing process and increases the risk of implant failure. If you are a smoker, try to quit or quit smoking at least a few months before undergoing the All-on-4 procedure.

4. Address medical conditions

Addressing medical conditions is crucial to ensure a safe and successful procedure. In some cases, uncontrolled diabetes or heart conditions can increase the risk of complications during and after the surgery, while others can impair the healing process, which is essential for the successful integration of dental implants. 

Proper management of these conditions can help reduce the likelihood of post-operative infections and other complications, promoting better healing and improving the overall success rate of the procedure.

5. Pre-operative instructions

Your dental professional will provide you with specific pre-operative instructions to follow in the days leading up to your procedure. These may include eating and drinking guidelines, as well as any necessary adjustments to your medications. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

What’s the duration of the All-on-4 surgery?

The duration of the All-on-4 surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the case and your specific needs. However, on average, the procedure typically takes approximately 2-2.5 hours per arch. This means that if both the upper and lower arches are being treated simultaneously, the surgery can take around 4-5 hours in total. It’s important to note that these are general estimates and the actual time required for your specific procedure may differ.

Also, keep in mind you’ll first receive a temporary dental bridge attached to the implants, which will remain in place during your healing period, which should last about three months. In this way, your jawbone and gums will have enough time to heal, allowing you to attach your custom-made dental bridge permanently. 

Trust the expertise of a leading Poway all-on-4 dentist specialists

Feel free to reach out to us for a free consultation. With our help, you can make an informed decision, which will benefit you in the long run. Upon deciding whether All-on-4 is the right procedure for you, Dr. Tsvetov will take care of you in a safe and competent manner. 

It’s time to reap the benefits dental implants have to offer, as well as our affordable prices and flexible payment plans, especially since most medical insurance excludes dental care. Getting a healthier, happier smile doesn’t have to be difficult – book your appointment today!