Patients who lose one or more teeth will want to replace them quickly and efficiently. Dental implants often provide a suitable solution. Many dentists offer same-day dental implants using advanced techniques to place and, almost immediately, load the implants. This procedure relies on the implants being placed so that they cannot move throughout the healing process. Although the implants are loaded with new restorations soon after surgery, they must still integrate with the bone; even the slightest movement could interfere with this process.
With same-day, implant-supported bridges, the implants are effectively locked in place by the bridge, ensuring no movement. When this technique is used to restore a single tooth, the implant-supported crown is fabricated so that it cannot come into contact with the opposing dentition. Sometimes small-diameter implants or SDIs are used for same-day treatments. Small-diameter implants are commonly used for implant-supported dentures using flap-less surgery techniques.
While this treatment may sound ideal, it isn’t without its drawback. But first, let’s look at the advantages...
When successful, this treatment provides a high level of patient satisfaction because they can receive their implant surgery and their new teeth all on the same day. Patients will not need to wear an uncomfortable partial or complete denture while their implants heal with same-day dental implants. Treatment is highly appealing for people who dread being without their teeth for any length of time. Patients can eat and talk in relative comfort during the healing process, with minimal disruption to everyday life. The techniques used for same-day dental implants are tested thoroughly and do not compromise the long-term success of treatment.
One of the most commonly used same-day dental implant techniques is All-on-Four® Treatment concept. This is when just four dental implants support a complete arch of teeth, and the forces placed on the implants are often directed at an obtuse angle. With this procedure, bone grafting is usually unnecessary because the placement of the dental implants maximizes the use of available bone, specifically in areas where it is naturally thicker. This can help reduce costs for patients without compromising the quality of results.
Same-day dental implant treatments cannot create a shortcut that will bypass the bone-to-implant integration process. This must still occur and cannot be rushed because the body needs time to produce new bone cells that firmly hold the implants. Patient compliance is vital to ensure the dental implants do not move during a healing period, anywhere between three and six months. During this time, it is often necessary for patients to stick to a softer diet, avoiding particularly hard or crunchy foods, such as carrots or almonds. This can last 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. Failure to adhere to a softer diet may result in the implants moving, negatively impacting integration and increasing the risk of treatment failure.
The restorations attached to the dental implants immediately after surgery are temporary, remaining in place until integration is completed. They will later be replaced with more permanent implant-supported restorations. These immediate restorations are usually fabricated before surgery and may not look as highly aesthetic as the final restorations.
While this treatment isn’t for everybody, the potential emotional benefits for patients receiving same-day dental implants shouldn’t be discounted. However, treatment is often highly technique-sensitive, and extensive skill is needed to ensure success.
Please be reminded that if you wish to discuss a case in more detail, our experienced technical team will assist you.
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All-on-Four® treatment concept is a registered trademark of Nobel Biocare, Inc.