What is the All-on-Four or All-on-X System? (Implant in One Day)
To create a fixed prosthesis supported by implants on a completely toothless jaw, at least six implants are required. However, due to some anatomical structures or bone loss in the jaw, it may not be possible to place six implants. Additional procedures (such as grafting, known as bone dusting, and sinus lifting) are needed to perform this operation. These procedures require extra cost and extra time for the patient. To avoid these procedures and to reduce costs, the idea of creating a fixed prosthesis on four implants placed in the front area has been proposed.
How is the All-on-Four System Applied?
In this system, in addition to two implants placed in a straight line in the front area of the jaws, a fixed prosthesis is made using the screwing technique on two angled implants placed in the back area. The number of implants can be increased to enhance the strength of the prosthesis. A metal construction infrastructure is laid inside the prosthesis so that a small number of implants can carry a full jaw prosthesis. Teeth made of porcelain or plastic are processed on this infrastructure. The stabilization of the prosthesis is achieved by screwing it onto the implants. Precise measurement techniques and quality technician work are required for the prosthesis to be passively placed on top of the implants.
What are the Advantages of the All-on-Four System?
If there is any problem with the prosthesis or the implants, the screws can be removed, and the prosthesis can be easily taken out. In this technique, if the implants are placed with a force above a certain level during the operation, a fixed temporary prosthesis can be made immediately. This treatment is also known among patients as "teeth in a day" treatment. Initially, it is recommended to avoid hard foods with this prosthesis. The patient uses the temporary prosthesis for about three months. After this period, the temporary prosthesis is replaced with the final prosthesis. Usually, pink porcelain can be added to the prosthesis to enhance the aesthetics and give a more natural appearance, especially for patients with bone loss.