What Are Teeth in a Day and All-on-4?
Both names describe the same basic idea: replacing an entire upper or lower arch of teeth with a fixed set of new teeth held in place by a small number of dental implants.
All-on-4 refers to the technique itself. Four implants are placed in carefully chosen positions in the jaw, often with the back implants angled to make use of the bone you already have. A full arch of replacement teeth is then attached to those implants.
Teeth in a Day refers to the goal many patients are after: leaving the office on the day of surgery with temporary teeth in place, instead of going weeks without teeth or relying on a removable denture. Whether same-day teeth are possible depends on your individual situation, which we evaluate at your consultation.
Is This the Right Fit for You? Signs a Full Arch Solution May Help
Full-arch implant treatment is often worth discussing if you:
- Have lost most or all of the teeth in one or both arches
- Have teeth that are failing because of advanced gum disease, decay, or damage
- Wear dentures that move, rub, or make it hard to chew
- Avoid certain foods or social situations because of your teeth
- Want a long-term solution rather than a repeating cycle of repairs
Not everyone is a candidate, and that's okay. We'll walk you through what we find and what else may work for you.
How It Works: From First Visit to Final Smile
Every treatment plan is customized, but most patients move through these stages.
- Consultation and Imaging. We review your health history, examine your teeth and gums, and take detailed images of your jaw to evaluate bone support and plan implant placement.
- Your Personalized Plan. We explain your options, timeline, and costs, and answer your questions before anything begins.
- Preparing the Mouth. If remaining teeth can't be saved, they are removed. Any needed treatment, such as managing gum disease, is addressed as part of your plan.
- Implant Surgery. Implants are placed in the jaw. We discuss sedation options with you beforehand so you can be comfortable.
- Temporary Teeth. In many cases, a temporary set of teeth can be attached the same day, so you leave with a smile. You'll follow a soft diet while you heal.
- Healing and Bonding. Over the months, the implants bond with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which gives implants their stability.
- Your Final Teeth. Once healing is complete, your permanent teeth are made and fitted for a natural look and a comfortable bite.
Why Patients Choose a Fixed Full Arch
- Greater Confidence When Eating: Many patients can enjoy a wider variety of foods than they could with removable dentures.
- Clearer, More Comfortable Speech: Because the teeth don't move, there's less worry about slipping or clicking.
- A Natural-looking Smile: Your replacement teeth are designed to complement your face and bite.
- A Streamlined Implant Approach: All-on-4 uses four strategically positioned implants per arch. For some patients, the approach can reduce the need for additional implants or certain bone-grafting procedures, depending on their treatment plan.
- Jawbone Support: Dental implants transfer chewing forces to the jawbone and can help limit the bone loss associated with missing teeth. They don't prevent every change in bone volume.
See examples of our work in our smile gallery.
A Team of Specialists Under One Roof
Full-arch treatment often involves more than one area of expertise: surgical placement, gum health, and the design of the final teeth. At Plaza Pointe Dental Specialists, our oral surgery, periodontics, and prosthodontics teams work together in one location, so your care stays coordinated from your first consultation through your final fitting.
Learn more about our dental implants, oral surgery, periodontics, and prosthodontics services.
Does Insurance Cover Teeth-in-a-Day Costs?
Dental and medical insurance benefits vary by plan and treatment. Certain parts of your care may qualify for coverage, depending on your benefits and the reason for treatment. Our team can help you review your coverage and discuss available payment options.
Financing Dental Implants in Mukilteo
Many patients are surprised to find that part of the treatment, such as extractions or surgical care, may be eligible for dental or medical insurance benefits. We're happy to review your coverage and discuss payment options with you. Call (425) 215-0001 to talk through your situation.
Caring for Your New Implants
With good habits, fixed full-arch teeth last for many years. To protect your investment:
- Brush twice a day and clean under and around your new teeth as instructed, often with a water flosser or special floss
- Keep up with regular dental cleanings and checkups
- Avoid chewing very hard objects such as ice or pen caps
- Avoid tobacco, which raises the risk of complications
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth, if recommended
