11 July 2024

All-On-4® implant treatment offers a solution for patients who need most or all of their remaining teeth in one or both arches replaced, leaving you with beautiful, functional, and long-lasting teeth. Unlike traditional full-arch implants that require three to six months’ healing time, All-On-4® treatment can be completed in 1-2 days, offering patients an almost immediate restoration. If you have difficulty chewing food, have ill-fitting dentures, have broken teeth, or are anxious about your smile, All-On-4® implants may be the treatment for you.

However, deciding to undergo All-On-4® implant treatment is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Here are 10 key factors to keep in mind when choosing All-On-4® dental implants.

1. Is your treatment being performed by a registered specialist team or a general dentist?

It’s important to determine whether your clinician is a registered specialist or a general dentist. If you are unsure, you can verify your clinicians Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registration by checking their profile here. If their profile lists them as a “Dental Practitioner – General,” they are a general dentist. If it indicates “General & Specialist,” they are a registered specialist, and their profile will detail their specialty and qualifications.

In Australia, registered specialists must first obtain a degree as a general dentist, then pursue a Master’s degree or equivalent, or a PhD in a specific field, qualifying them to apply for specialist registration with the Dental Board of Australia.

2. What materials are being used to create your All-on-4® dental implants?

For your permanent fixed bridge, it’s important to understand what materials are being used to craft your new smile. Are they working with ceramic materials, acrylic denture teeth, or any other inferior resin (plastic) material.

Ceramic is a superior option for several reasons, including better durability to ensure a longer lifespan and resistance to wear and tear, making them more cost effective in the long run. Ceramic teeth are also highly resistant to staining, which means they maintain their brightness and colour over time with proper care.

Ceramic bridges also closely mimics the natural translucency and texture of real teeth, providing a more natural-looking smile.

3. What material is the substructure of your All-On-4® dental implants made of?

The substructure of your prosthetic plays an important role in the success and longevity of the All-on-4 dental implant bridge, as it’s the foundation that securely supports the prosthetic teeth in place, distributing chewing forces evenly across the implants and preserving the underlying bone structure. This stability is not only important for functionality but also provides patients with the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without worry.

4. Where are your dental implants being made?

It’s crucial to know where your implants are being manufactured—locally or offshore—as this affects turnaround time and quality. Ensure the implants are TGA approved for safety and reliability. Additionally, inquire about the procedures in place if the implants are not correct, including the correction process and associated costs.

5. Is the clinic an All-on-4® accredited practice?

It’s essential to verify that your clinic is genuinely All-On-4® accredited rather than just presenting as one. Only accredited clinics use authentic All-On-4® products, ensuring that the procedure meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and success. Checking accreditation helps you avoid potential risks associated with inexperienced providers and inferior products.

The All-on-4® system uses Swiss-made Nobel implants, advanced technology and proven techniques developed through extensive research and clinical studies ensuring reliability, predictability, and long-term success. The brand’s commitment to ongoing innovation and continuous improvement further solidifies its reputation as a leader in implant dentistry, inspiring confidence for both clinicians and patients.

6. Where will your procedure be performed?

Should you have private health insurance with hospital cover, your treatment can take place in the comfort and safety of a private hospital rather than a dental surgery.

7. What technology does the practice use?

Ensure your clinic uses technology specifically designed for All-On-4® dental implants rather than outdated or general technology. This specialised technology improves precision, outcomes, and overall treatment success. Ask your clinician about the tools and techniques they employ to guarantee you receive the best possible care.

8. How long until your permanent bridge be placed?

The timeline for placing your permanent bridge after All-On-4® dental implants varies, typically ranging from a few weeks to a few months. This period allows for healing and ensures the implants integrate securely with your jawbone before the final restoration is attached.

9. Do you have a complex case?

For complex cases, it’s beneficial to utilise the services of oral and maxillofacial surgeons who specialise in advanced treatments such as extensive bone grafting, sinus lifts, and zygomatic implants.

10. Have you been well-informed and received the best expert advice?

To ensure you have been well-informed and received the best expert advice, always confirm that your clinician has provided thorough explanations, addressed all your concerns, and shared their qualifications and experience. Make sure you have a comprehensive appointment directly with your treating clinician, rather than just a brief interaction after speaking with a salesperson.

Seeking a second opinion from another specialist can also help validate the information and advice you’ve received.