All-on-4 dental implants offer a permanent set of teeth that are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
These implants are often recommended for patients with extensive tooth decay, compromised teeth, or issues relating to loose dentures and failed root canals.
On the other hand, dentures are removable prosthetics that can sometimes pose fit issues.
Although there has been considerable improvement in the quality and design of dentures, All-on-4 stands out as the most robust and reliable option for tooth replacement.
However, it’s crucial for both the dentist and the patient to collaborate in determining the best solution. This brings us to an essential question: All-on-4 vs dentures — which is better?
What is the Difference Between All-on-4 and Dentures?
While both All-on-4 and dentures serve the same purpose—replacing missing teeth—their approaches are significantly different.
All-on-4 implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. They are fixed directly into the jawbone, providing superior stability and comfort. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth and require no more maintenance than your natural teeth.
On the other hand, dentures are a removable prosthetic solution. They can be taken out and put back into the mouth, and they require daily cleaning.
Although dentures have improved significantly over the years, they can sometimes feel uncomfortable, and ill-fitting dentures can cause difficulties while eating or speaking.
The choice between All-on-4 and dentures will depend on individual circumstances and preferences. A consultation with your dentist can provide you with the best advice, tailored to your specific needs.
Do All-on-4 Feel Like Dentures?
All-on-4 don’t feel like dentures. In fact, they’re designed to feel exactly like your natural teeth.
As mentioned, they’re securely fixed into your jawbone, providing the stability that dentures often lack. This means that, unlike dentures, All-on-4 implants don’t cause discomfort while chewing or speaking.
Since they do not need to be removed for cleaning, All-on-4 also eliminates the inconvenience associated with traditional or even snap-on dentures.
As dentures aren’t permanently rooted in your jawbone, there’s always a risk of them moving or falling out while you’re chewing. If not fitted properly, dentures can exert pressure and rub on your gums, which can be uncomfortable.
All-on-4 implants are more comfortable and require less maintenance; they’ll actually save you time and money in the long run!
Do All-on-4 Implants Look Like Dentures?
The All-on-4 system is designed to closely replicate the appearance of natural teeth.
Where dentures can sometimes appear artificial or ill-fitting, All-on-4 implants are custom-crafted to fit perfectly into your mouth, maintaining the natural shape and contours of your gums and mouth.
This makes All-on-4 implants a more aesthetic solution, often indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Durability and Maintenance: Dentures vs All-on-4 Implants
Dentures often need to be realigned or replaced due to changes in fit or poor maintenance. They require daily cleaning and soaking — a routine that can easily be neglected.
Luckily, with All-on-4 being a permanent solution, you can eat, floss, brush, and carry on with your life as you normally would with natural teeth! When considering dentures or implants, these subtle differences can significantly impact your decision.
Is All-on-4 Better Than Snap-On Dentures?
Certainly, both All-on-4 and Snap-On dentures come with their own unique set of benefits, but many consider All-on-4 the superior solution.
The All-on-4 system provides a fixed, non-removable set of teeth, giving you a more natural feeling and the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without worrying about the prosthetic slipping or coming loose.
On the other hand, Snap-On dentures, though providing improved stability over traditional dentures, still require removal for cleaning and may not provide the same level of comfort and convenience.
All-on-4 vs Dentures: The Verdict
When it comes to All-on-4 vs dentures, All-on-4 is the superior choice in most cases.
If you’re dealing with issues such as a collapsed bite, missing teeth, extensive tooth decay or deterioration, failed bridges, or gum disease, All-on-4 is a practical, comfortable, and lifelong solution to your dental woes.
However, All-on-4 won’t be suitable for everyone. Your dentist will need to determine your eligibility for All-on-4. If they are not a viable option for you, your dentist will share alternative solutions.
Dr. Joe Xanthopoulos, a specialist in the All-on-4 procedure at Kew Dentistry, is proud to provide expert advice and procedures for your implants.
The entire team at Kew Dentistry is excited to guide you on your journey towards a healthier, more confident smile. Contact us today to find out more!