All on 4 dental implants essentially use four implants as anchors for full or partial permanent dentures. The technical names for this prosthesis are “hybrid” or “fixed-detachable”. It can be removed by an implant dentist when/if needed, but not by the patient. The popular names are “All-On-4” or “Teeth-in-a-Day”. These are sometimes done with 5 or 6 implants, depending on varying factors in a given patient’s anatomy. This is wildly popular, worldwide. Because of its popularity and potential profit margin there are many under-qualified dentists attempting it. These treatments result in a denture-type prosthesis that attaches (is screwed on) to multiple implants. It can be made of titanium/acrylic or zirconium. Tooth breakage is common if the material choice is wrong or if the patient has a strong bite, clenches or grinds. It is a very good option when done properly with the correct combination of materials. The final result is highly aesthetic, functional and comfortable.
