All-on-4 Myths Busted: What They Don’t Tell You (But Should)

Missing several teeth does more than affect the ability to eat and speak clearly; it can also result in depression or a lack of confidence. While traditional dentures offer a relatively fast and simple solution to missing teeth, many people are turning to All-on-4 dental implants as an alternative.

This innovative procedure is a technique where, you’ve guessed … 4 implants are placed into the jawbone to support a full set of replacement teeth. This technique provides a fixed, permanent solution that offers more stability than removable dentures.

Sounds good so far, right, but with innovation often comes misinformation. If you’ve been doing your research and feel confused by mixed messages, you’re not alone.

This post debunks some of the most common misconceptions about All-On-4 implants and reveals all you need to know before taking the next step. So let’s dive in and take a closer look:

Myth #1 – All-on-4 is only for the elderly

Fact: While it's true that older people often seek out this procedure, All-on-4 is not age-specific. Any adult looking for full-arch rehabilitation can benefit from this procedure; and indeed, younger patients who are missing several teeth due to dental disease, an accident or genetic conditions often approach us about this technique.

Myth #2 – The procedure is extremely painful

Fact: Like any surgery, patients may experience slight discomfort, but modern dental technology, including sedation dentistry and computer-guided surgery, means that most of them say it was more comfortable and faster than they expected. While some soreness and swelling may occur, this can usually be kept under control with over-the-counter painkillers.  

Myth #3 – Bone grafting is always necessary

Fact: One of the advantages of All-on-4 is that it minimizes or eliminates the need for bone grafting. The implants are strategically placed at an angle to utilize existing bone structure even in those with moderate bone loss, making the procedure more accessible to a wider range of patients.

Myth #4 – Recovery takes a long time

Fact: A common misconception about All-on-4 is that it can take several weeks or months to recover from the surgery. The major benefit of the All-on-4 procedure is that, in most cases, a temporary bridge is attached to the implants on the day of surgery (immediate loading), hence the procedure is often called ‘teeth in a day’. Once the gums have fully healed (approximately 6 weeks later) and the implants have integrated with the surrounding bone, patients will return to the clinic to have their temporary bridge removed and replaced with a permanent prosthesis. The great news is you can keep on smiling since you’ll never be without a fully functioning smile.

Myth #5 – All on 4 implants look fake

Fact: This couldn’t be further from the truth. Not only do All-on-4 dental implants look like natural teeth, but they feel and function like them, too. They are carefully designed to mimic the appearance of your natural teeth in shape, size and color, and since they are firmly secured to dental implants, they won’t slip or slide as traditional dentures may do. Another huge benefit of the procedure is that the implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to retain facial structures and prevent that aging hollow look that often accompanies tooth loss.

Myth #6 – They are difficult to clean

Fact: Unlike traditional dentures, All-on-4 doesn’t have a separate cleaning routine, but like natural teeth, your replacement teeth need proper daily care. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are essential to ensure their health and longevity. Without proper cleaning, plaque and bacteria can accumulate around the implants, which could lead to peri-implantitis (similar to gum disease) that may cause your implants to fail. Your dentist will provide you with more specific information post-surgery and in the long term.

Myth #7 – They don’t last as long as regular dental implants

Fact: Durability is one of the main concerns our patients have, and it’s understandable given that only four dental implants are used to support their new set of teeth. However, the reality is that the implants are strategically placed and angled across the jaw to effectively spread the pressure, ensuring they can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. Like regular implants, when properly cared for, All-on-4 implants can last for decades.

Myth #8 – It's too expensive to even consider

Fact: The cost of the All-on-4 procedure can indeed seem high initially, with prices ranging between $21,000 to $41,000 for full arch installation. However, it’s vital to consider the long-term benefits and savings. For example, with traditional dentures, you’ll need to factor in the regular cost of soaking solutions and denture adhesive, not to mention frequent adjustments and eventual replacement around the 5-10 year mark. In contrast,  All-on-4 implants are a permanent solution that can reduce the need for future dental work. Some insurance providers provide an element of coverage for All on 4, and most clinics offer financing options to make them more affordable and accessible to their patients.

Final thoughts

It’s best to make any dental decision based on facts rather than uncertainty. All-on-4 can offer a life-changing transformation for those looking to replace all or several missing teeth, but it’s not for everyone. Talking to a qualified dental implant dentist will give you a better idea of whether it’s the right decision for your unique smile goals.

Ready to learn more?

Schedule a free implant consultation with the experienced implant team at Chesterfield Dentistry. Here you can ask questions about the procedure and related treatments to address any concerns. We can also discuss various payment plans and finance options, so there are no nasty surprises later in the process.