How Long Without Teeth Before Dentures?

Do I Have to Stay Without Teeth Before Getting My All-on-4® Implant Dentures?

Did you know that 6.4% of Canadians have no teeth? While this is a small portion of the population, it can significantly impact your life if you're part of it.

Without teeth, you can't smile, eat, or speak properly. As such, it's in your best interest to find a solution to restore proper oral function.

While many choose dentures, there are also implant dentures, such as All-on-4®, 5 or 6 Implants. You might have some questions for those of you interested in getting All-on-4® style implant dentures. Keep reading to get some answers so you can get peace of mind.

What Are Implant Dentures?

Implant dentures use dental implants to secure and support either a complete or partial denture. This is where dental implants are placed into 4-6 different areas in your jawbone. Two of the implants are placed at an angle for more efficient treatment and avoiding bone grafting.

On top of the implants, the dental practitioner will place temporized fixed bridges, including temporary teeth. You'll then go home to heal before your subsequent treatment.

Typically, the healing and integration of the implants will take around 8 - 12 weeks for the lower jaw and 12 - 16 weeks for the upper jaw. 

Once your dental implants have integrated with your bone, you will have another series of appointments with your denturist. They'll fit you with the permanent implant dentures that'll last you for years to come.

Do I Have To Stay Without Teeth Beforehand?

One of the best benefits of All-on-4® implant dentures is you don't have to be without teeth!

At your initial appointment, any tooth extractions you might need before the implant dentures will be done then. This is beneficial because it helps you preserve your jaw bone quality.

The dentist then places the implants and the denturist the temporary teeth and temporized fixed bridges. This means that once you walk out the door, you can use your temporary new teeth immediately. 

A soft diet will be prescribed for the first while in order to avoid damaging the newly placed implants and provisional appliances.

Implant Dentures Cost

The All-on-4® implant solution does cost a significant amount, and dental practices in Canada will charge anywhere between $25,000 to $35,000 per arch. 

Dental insurance companies do not typically cover dental implants and the associated bridges and dentures. However, these procedures are often tax-deductible and financed, and the costs are generally spread over time—the definitive implant teeth coming approximately one year after the implants are placed. 

Considering All-on-4® dental implants can last for 20 years or more, this is a very worthwhile investment in your oral and overall health.

Get All-on-4® Implant Dentures

As you can see, All-on-4® implant bridges are a fantastic and permanent alternative to dentures. They allow you to restore function to your teeth with minimal discomfort.

So if you've lost your teeth and are looking for a solution, All-on-4® might be right for you.

If you're interested in the All-on-4® dentures, make an appointment at High River Denture & Implant Clinic today. We'll be more than happy to assist you.