Missing several teeth can affect how you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. If you have lost most or all of your teeth, you may be wondering whether dental implants could be an alternative to removable dentures.
All-on-X is one option to discuss with your dentist. At Pacific Highway Dental in Kent, WA, Dr. Meenakshi Tomar, DDS, can help you understand the available tooth replacement options and what may suit your dental needs.
What Are All-on-X Dental Implants?
All-on-X uses a planned number of dental implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. The “X” refers to the number of implants selected for the treatment plan. Depending on your needs, this may involve four, six, or another appropriate number of implants.
Unlike traditional dentures, which can be removed, an implant-supported bridge is attached to the implants. This can provide greater stability for suitable patients, although the treatment is not right for everyone.
How Does the Procedure Work?
The process begins with an examination to assess your teeth, gums, jawbone, and overall oral health. Your dentist may recommend dental imaging, including a CBCT scan when appropriate, to help plan implant placement.
Treatment generally involves these steps:
Consultation: Discuss missing teeth, concerns, medical history, and treatment goals.
Treatment planning: Assess the jawbone and determine the number and position of implants.
Implant placement: Surgically place the implants in the jawbone.
Temporary teeth: Some patients may qualify for temporary teeth soon after surgery, depending on implant stability and other clinical factors.
Final restoration: Once healing has been assessed, the final replacement teeth can be fitted.
The timeline varies from patient to patient. Receiving temporary teeth on the day of surgery is not guaranteed.
Who May Be a Candidate for All-on-X?
All-on-X may be considered for adults who have lost most or all of their teeth, or whose remaining teeth cannot be predictably restored.
Your dentist will consider several factors, including:
The amount and condition of your jawbone.
The health of your gums and remaining teeth.
Your medical history and medications.
Smoking habits and their potential effect on healing.
Your ability to maintain good oral hygiene.
Some patients may need bone grafting or other treatment before implants can be placed. An examination is necessary to determine which options are appropriate.
All-on-X vs. Traditional Dentures
Both options can replace missing teeth, but they work differently.
Traditional dentures are removable and rest on the gums. All-on-X uses implants to support a fixed set of replacement teeth that patients generally do not remove themselves for daily cleaning.
Implant treatment involves surgery, healing time, and often a higher initial cost. Dentures may be a more suitable option for some people, depending on their health, preferences, and budget. Your dentist can explain the advantages and limitations of each approach.
What Is Recovery Like?
After implant surgery, some swelling, tenderness, and discomfort may occur. Your dental team will provide instructions about eating, cleaning your mouth, and managing recovery.
During healing, you may need to follow a modified diet and attend follow-up appointments. Your dentist will let you know when you can move on to different foods based on your progress.
Considering All-on-X Dental Implants in Kent, WA?
If you live in Kent, Federal Way, Des Moines, SeaTac, or Covington, Pacific Highway Dental can help you explore your tooth replacement options.
Located on Pacific Highway South in Kent, the clinic serves patients in the surrounding communities. If you are unsure whether implants or dentures would suit you better, a consultation is a good opportunity to discuss your concerns and understand what treatment may involve.
Dr. Meenakshi Tomar can help you review the available options based on your individual dental needs.
Call Pacific Highway Dental at (253) 529-9434 to ask about an All-on-X consultation.
