How All-on-4 Works
The All-on-4 system uses four dental implants positioned at specific angles to maximize contact with existing bone. The two front implants go in vertically, while the back two angle toward the front of your mouth at approximately 45 degrees. This angulation lets the implants anchor in denser bone and avoid anatomical structures like sinuses in your upper jaw or nerves in your lower jaw.
A full arch prosthesis attaches to these four implants, distributing biting forces evenly across all the anchor points. The design creates a stable foundation that handles normal chewing pressure without shifting or moving. Unlike removable dentures that rest on your gums, All-on-4 in Toronto transfers force directly to your jawbone through the implants, which helps maintain bone density over time.
Who Benefits From All-on-4 Treatment
This approach works well for people who have lost most or all teeth in one or both arches, whether from decay, gum disease, injury, or other causes. If you currently wear complete dentures and struggle with them slipping, clicking, or making it difficult to eat certain foods, All-on-4 provides a fixed alternative that functions more like natural teeth.
Patients with significant bone loss who might not qualify for traditional implants often find All-on-4 accessible because the angled placement and strategic positioning work around areas where bone has deteriorated. The technique uses available bone more efficiently, though your dentist needs to evaluate your specific situation to determine if you have adequate bone for successful implant placement.
The Treatment Process
Initial Consultation and Planning
Your dentist examines your mouth, takes digital X-rays and scans, and discusses your goals for treatment. This planning phase determines whether All-on-4 suits your anatomy and oral health status. If you still have remaining teeth in the arch being treated, your dentist explains the extraction process and timeline.
Advanced imaging shows your bone density, nerve locations, and sinus position, letting your dentist plan precise implant placement before surgery. Digital impressions eliminate the need for goopy moulds when creating crowns or other restorations. This preparation helps ensure implants go exactly where they’ll provide optimal support and avoid complications.
Implant Placement Surgery
The surgical appointment involves placing all four implants in one visit. Your dentist removes any remaining teeth if needed, prepares the implant sites, and positions each implant at the planned location and angle. The procedure typically uses sedation to keep you comfortable throughout.
Many patients receive a temporary prosthesis the same day, walking out with a full set of teeth rather than waiting months for final restoration. This immediate function represents one of the major advantages of All-on-4 compared to traditional implant approaches that might leave you without teeth during healing.
Healing and Final Restoration
Over the next several months, your implants integrate with surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. The bone grows around and bonds to the titanium implant surface, creating a secure anchor. During this time, you wear your temporary prosthesis and return for check-ups to monitor healing.
Once integration completes, your dentist takes impressions for your final prosthesis. This permanent restoration offers improved aesthetics and function compared to the temporary version, crafted from durable materials designed to last for years with proper care.
Living With All-on-4 Implants
Your replacement teeth function much like natural ones, letting you eat foods that might have been difficult or impossible with traditional dentures. Apples, corn on the cob, and crusty bread become manageable again. You brush and floss around your prosthesis daily, maintaining good oral hygiene to protect your implants and surrounding gum tissue.
Regular dental visits remain important for monitoring your implants and prosthesis. Your dentist checks that everything remains stable and healthy, addressing any concerns before they develop into problems. Professional cleanings remove buildup from areas you might miss at home, helping your implants last as long as possible.
Comparing All-on-4 to Other Options
Traditional complete dentures cost less upfront but require adhesives, periodic adjustments, and eventual replacement as your jaw changes shape. Individual implants for each missing tooth provide excellent results but involve more extensive surgery, longer treatment time, and higher cost. All-on-4 in Toronto balances stability, function, treatment time, and investment, making full arch restoration accessible to more patients.
The fixed nature of All-on-4 means no removing your teeth at night or worrying about them slipping during meals or conversations. This permanence appeals to many people who want their replacement teeth to feel as close to natural as possible.
Determining Your Best Option
Every person’s mouth presents unique considerations, from bone density and gum health to budget and timeline preferences. All-on-4 works wonderfully for many patients but might not be the right choice for everyone. Your dentist evaluates your specific situation and discusses all available options, helping you make an informed decision about restoring your smile.
Ready to explore whether All-on-4 could work for you? Contact Toronto Smile Centre to schedule a consultation with Dr. Choudhary, Dr. Grayson, Dr. Baik, or Dr. Nastase. We’ll assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and explain whether this treatment approach matches your needs.