Choosing the right tooth replacement option is a big decision, and it can be overwhelming. If you’ve lost most or all of your teeth, you’ve likely heard of All-on-4® dental implants and overdentures. Both are life-changing solutions, but they’re not the same.
At Dentistry in Middletown, Dr. Jake Uram and our team want to help you make an informed choice. Below, we compare key features to help you decide which option best fits your needs, goals, and lifestyle.
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a full-arch dental restoration supported by just four implants. This fixed prosthetic is permanently attached to dental implants placed at strategic angles in the jaw. The procedure is designed to support an entire arch of teeth (upper, lower, or both) and is ideal for people with significant tooth loss or bone deterioration.
Advantages of All-on-4
- Fixed and non-removable (only your dentist can take it out)
- Extremely stable with no shifting or movement
- High chewing efficiency
- Aesthetically pleasing, with a natural look and feel
- Usually does not cover the roof of the mouth (palate)
What Are Overdentures?
Overdentures are removable dentures that snap onto dental implants for improved stability. Typically, two to four implants are placed in the jaw, and the denture is designed to “snap” onto them using attachments. Overdentures can be removed by the patient daily for cleaning.
Benefits of Overdentures
- More secure than traditional dentures
- Removable for easy cleaning
- Less expensive than full fixed implant solutions
- Can be used even with some degree of bone loss
Key Differences Between All-on-4 & Overdentures
1. Stability & Function
All-on-4 implants are fixed in place and function much like natural teeth. They provide excellent bite force and allow patients to eat a wide variety of foods. Overdentures, while more stable than traditional dentures, may still shift slightly during eating or speaking.
2. Removability
All-on-4 is a fixed solution. You won’t take it out each night or worry about adhesives. Overdentures, however, are removable and must be taken out daily for cleaning.
3. Number of Implants
As the name suggests, All-on-4 typically uses four implants per arch. Overdentures can be supported by as few as two implants, although four may be used for better retention.
4. Bone Requirements
All-on-4 was specifically designed for patients with reduced jawbone volume. The rear implants are angled to maximize contact with available bone. Overdentures also work well with moderate bone loss but may occasionally require bone grafting.
5. Maintenance
With All-on-4, regular brushing and flossing are necessary, along with routine dental checkups for professional cleanings. Overdentures require removal each night and careful cleaning of both the denture and the underlying implants.
6. Cost
All-on-4 generally comes with a higher price tag due to surgical complexity and permanent prosthetics. Overdentures are a more budget-friendly option, especially for those not ready for a fully fixed solution.
7. Longevity
Both options are linked to long-term success. Nowadays, All-on-4 restorations have 18+ years of clinical success documented. Also considered a better option over traditional dentures by researchers, overdentures boast similar reports, though they may need adjustments, re-lining, or replacement of attachment components over time.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Your ideal option depends on your health, lifestyle preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for a permanent, natural-feeling solution and are ready to invest in a long-term fix, All-on-4 may be the best fit. However, if you prefer a more flexible, lower-cost option that still offers excellent stability, Overdentures are a great alternative. Consulting with a qualified implant dentist in Middletown, DE, can help determine which treatment best suits your needs. No matter which option you choose, Dr. Uram is here to help. Contact Dentistry in Middletown today.