What Is All-on-Four Dental Implant Treatment?
All-on-Four is the process of fitting a temporary fixed prosthesis on the same day onto four dental implants placed at special angles in a single jaw for patients with complete edentulism or those whose existing teeth need to be extracted. This technique utilizes the denser bone area in the anterior part of the jawbone, thanks to the implants placed at an angle (usually 30-45 degrees) in the posterior region. Thus, it eliminates the need for complex and time-consuming bone grafting that is often required in traditional implant treatments. It is a modern treatment that makes it possible to achieve fixed teeth quickly, reliably, and comfortably.
Who Is This Treatment Suitable For?
All-on-Four treatment is an ideal solution, especially for patients who have no remaining teeth in their mouth (complete edentulism) or whose existing teeth are severely damaged, loose, and mandatory to be extracted. Furthermore, this technique can be successfully applied to individuals with insufficient vertical bone volume but adequate horizontal bone for implant placement. It is a highly suitable method for patients who are uncomfortable using removable dentures, who do not want to undergo bone dust (graft) procedures due to bone loss, and who require a quick solution. A detailed examination and radiographic evaluation by a specialist dentist before the treatment is mandatory.
What Is The Difference Between All-on-Four And Classic Implants?
Classic implant treatment usually requires a separate implant for every missing tooth, and sometimes months-long bone grafting operations may be necessary to place implants in areas with advanced bone loss. All-on-Four, on the other hand, uses only four implants, the posterior two of which are placed at an angle to maximize the use of existing bone, greatly reducing the need for grafting. The most significant difference is that a temporary fixed prosthesis can be fitted on the same day; thus, patients quickly receive fixed teeth without waiting, whereas, in the classic method, this period can take months.
Why Should Istanbul Be Preferred For Dental Treatment?
Istanbul hosts modern clinics that offer services at international standards in the field of dentistry and aesthetics, as well as globally renowned talented surgeons. The use of advanced technology, quality implant brands, and its much more affordable cost compared to Western countries have made Istanbul a global health tourism hub. The inclusion of additional services such as accommodation and transfers in the treatment packages makes the process extremely comfortable for international patients. It also offers the opportunity to experience the city’s cultural richness alongside the treatment.
How Long Does The Treatment Take?
The surgical phase of the All-on-Four treatment is usually completed in a single day. The implant placement procedure takes approximately 2 to 4 hours per jaw. Temporary fixed prostheses, prepared in the laboratory immediately after the surgical procedure or within a maximum of 1-3 days, are fitted to the patient. This means the patient leaves the clinic with fixed teeth on their first visit. However, a period of 3 to 6 months is required for the permanent prostheses, as the fusion of the implants with the bone (osseointegration) is awaited.
Is The Surgery Completed In A Single Day?
Yes, the implant placement surgery in All-on-Four treatment, including tooth extraction most of the time, is completed in a single surgical session. Since the patient’s condition is planned in detail beforehand with 3D tomography (CBCT), the surgical procedure progresses quickly and predictably. After the implants are placed, an impression is taken, and the preparation process for the temporary prosthesis begins in the laboratory. This is critical for the patient to quickly return to their social life without long waiting periods.
When Are The Temporary Prostheses Fitted?
The temporary fixed prostheses are generally fitted to the patient on the same day or at the latest within 3 days following the completion of the All-on-Four surgical procedure. This immediate loading process prevents the patient from being toothless and instantly restores aesthetic, chewing, and speaking functions. The temporary prostheses are made of a lighter and softer material to prevent excessive load on the implants during the healing period, and the patient is required to consume only soft foods.
How Long Must One Wait For The Permanent Prostheses?
To fit the permanent prostheses, the complete fusion of the implants with the jawbone (osseointegration) is awaited. This process usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual’s bone structure and general health condition. Temporary prostheses are used during this period. Once bone fusion is complete, the final fixed prostheses, made of more durable and aesthetically superior materials such as porcelain, zirconia, or hybrid, are prepared and fitted.
Is Pain Felt During The Treatment?
Since All-on-Four treatment is performed under local anesthesia, no pain is felt during the surgery. Patients may only feel slight pressure or vibration. For those with high anxiety or in more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may also be preferred. Any mild pain and discomfort that may occur after the surgery are easily managed using painkillers prescribed by the doctor. It is normal to have slight swelling and tenderness for the first few days.
Which Types Of Anesthesia Are Used?
The All-on-Four implant placement procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia, which allows the patient to remain conscious but feel no pain in the operation area. Conscious sedation or general anesthesia options are offered, especially for highly anxious patients or major operations where multiple surgical procedures will be performed simultaneously. Sedation allows the patient to enter a state of deep relaxation while maximizing their comfort throughout the procedure.
What Is The Recovery Process Like?
The recovery process begins with minimal swelling and bruising in the first 24-48 hours, which usually subsides within 3-4 days. It is important for patients to consume soft and liquid foods during this period and use the medications prescribed by the dentist regularly. The soft tissue around the implants heals quickly, but a period of 3 to 6 months is required for the bone to fuse with the implants. Smoking and alcohol consumption must be strictly avoided during this time.
What Should Be Considered On The First Day After Treatment?
The first day after treatment is critical for successful recovery. Patients need to continue biting on the gauze pad placed to control bleeding. Spitting, using a straw, and consuming hot foods must be strictly avoided, as these can cause the blood clot to dislodge (dry socket). Applying ice to the area during the first 24 hours helps minimize swelling, and sleeping with a high pillow is recommended.
What Should Eating Habits Be Like?
During the first 3 to 6 months of the osseointegration period after treatment, only soft foods must be consumed. In this period, it is essential to prevent excessive load on the implants and avoid risking fusion. Foods such as soups, purees, yogurt, soft vegetables, and well-cooked fish are recommended. After the permanent prostheses are fitted, patients can fully regain their normal chewing function, but it is still advised to avoid very hard and shelled foods.
What Is The Success Rate Of The Treatment?
The long-term success rates of the All-on-Four dental implant treatment are over 95% when performed with correct planning and by an expert surgeon. Factors affecting success include the patient’s general health status, oral hygiene habits, and smoking use. The use of internationally approved implant brands and strict adherence to post-surgical instructions are key to maintaining a high success rate. Experienced centers in Istanbul aim to provide these high standards.
What Preparations Should Be Made Before Treatment?
Before the treatment, the implant surgeon requires panoramic X-rays and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans for a detailed evaluation of the patient’s teeth and jawbone. Smoking patients must quit smoking at least one week before the surgery, and those using blood-thinning medication may need to stop the medication for a certain period with the doctor’s approval. Furthermore, existing infections or gum diseases in the mouth must be treated before the procedure.
Can It Be Applied To Patients With Bone Loss?
Yes, the All-on-Four technique provides a particular advantage for patients with bone loss (atrophy) in the posterior parts of the jawbone and who have insufficient bone volume for traditional implants. The angled placement of the implants reduces or completely eliminates the need for bone grafting. Thus, patients can receive fixed prostheses in a shorter time without undergoing a long and costly bone augmentation surgery. This is the most important innovative feature of the treatment.
How Does Smoking Affect The Treatment?
Smoking is the most significant factor that severely negatively affects the success of All-on-Four treatment. Smoking reduces blood flow in the mouth, slowing down wound healing, increasing the risk of infection, and hindering the process of implant fusion with the bone (osseointegration). Completely quitting or minimizing smoking before starting the treatment and during the healing process is vital for the implants to remain long-lasting and healthy.
How Are All-on-Four Prices Determined?
The prices of All-on-Four treatment in Istanbul are determined according to the quality of the implant brand used (international or local), the type of material used in the prosthesis (temporary/permanent, zirconia/porcelain), the experience of the clinic, and the additional services included in the package (accommodation, transfer, sedation). Prices are generally offered as a package per jaw or for both jaws and are customized according to the patient’s individual needs. Detailed research should be done for a balance between high quality and affordable cost.
How Long Must One Stay In Istanbul During The Treatment Process?
It is recommended that patients stay in Istanbul for an average of 5 to 7 days for the first surgical stage of the All-on-Four treatment and the fitting of the temporary prostheses. This period is sufficient for the surgical procedure, the day-after check-ups, and the prosthesis try-in. For the fitting of the permanent prostheses, a second trip 3 to 6 months later usually requires an additional stay of 5 to 10 days. Accommodation and transfer support during this time make your travel easier.
What Is The Lifespan Of The Implants?
The implants themselves (titanium roots) are designed to be permanent for life with proper care and good oral hygiene. These implants function like natural tooth roots. However, the fixed prostheses placed on the implants may need to be renewed after 10 to 15 years due to chewing forces and wear. Regular dental check-ups and meticulous oral care prolong the lifespan of both the implants and the prostheses.
Which Materials Are Used For Prostheses?
The temporary prostheses fitted in the first stage of All-on-Four treatment are generally made of acrylic material; this light material protects the implants during the healing process. For the permanent prostheses fitted after the 3-6 month healing period, superior materials such as zirconia-supported porcelain or pure zirconia are used to maximize aesthetics and durability. These materials maintain a natural tooth appearance and strong chewing function for many years.
How Should Dental Care Be Done After Treatment?
Dental care after All-on-Four is extremely important for the permanence of a successful result. The use of special dental floss, implant toothbrushes, and especially an oral irrigator (water flosser) is highly recommended to clean the area around the implant under the fixed prostheses. Brushing at least twice a day and dental check-ups twice a year for professional cleaning are indispensable for maintaining the gum health around the implants.
Is It Possible To Apply The Treatment To Both Jaws Simultaneously?
Yes, the All-on-Four technique is a treatment that can often be applied simultaneously to patients with full edentulism problems in both the upper and lower jaws. This increases patient comfort by combining the treatment duration and recovery period into a single operation. In the same session, 4 implants are placed in each jaw, and temporary fixed prostheses are fitted. This “full mouth restoration” procedure quickly restores full functionality.
What Are The Advantages Of The Treatment?
The main advantages of the All-on-Four treatment are that it offers a quick fixed-teeth solution and patients can receive fixed prostheses with just a single surgical procedure. The angled placement of the implants reduces the need for advanced bone grafting. Furthermore, unlike removable dentures, it provides full chewing comfort, reliable speaking ability, and excellent aesthetic appearance. Patients quickly return to their social lives and self-confidence.
Are There Disadvantages To The Treatment?
The disadvantages of All-on-Four treatment are generally the high initial investment cost and special oral hygiene requirements. Cleaning the area under the fixed prosthesis cannot be done with normal tooth brushing; the use of special brushes and water flossers is mandatory. In addition, the restriction of consuming only soft foods during the osseointegration period (3-6 months) can be challenging for some patients. However, considering the lasting comfort it provides, these disadvantages can be overlooked.
Is It Possible To Eat With Temporary Prostheses?
It is possible to eat immediately after the temporary prostheses are fitted, but only soft, crushable, or liquid foods should be consumed with these prostheses. This is a vital rule to ensure the implants fuse with the bone quietly and securely. Hard, crunchy, sticky, or difficult-to-chew foods must be strictly avoided. Adhering to this rule minimizes the risk of implant failure and secures the 3 to 6 month healing process.
Is There A Risk Of Implant Failure?
The risk of All-on-Four implant failure is low (generally less than 5%) when performed by an experienced specialist. The most common causes of failure include poor oral hygiene, uncontrolled diabetes, or heavy smoking. In case of implant failure to fuse with the bone (lack of osseointegration), the implant is removed, the area is allowed to heal, and the treatment is usually continued by placing a new implant.
What Is Done With Failed Implants?
If an implant rarely fails to fuse with the bone, it is surgically removed. After the implant is removed, a healing period (usually 2-3 months) is awaited for the implant site to fully recover and the bone to regenerate. If the bone volume is sufficient, the treatment is continued by placing a new implant in the area. The advantage of the All-on-Four concept is that even if one of the four implants fails, the prosthesis can usually remain stable, supported by the other implants.
How Often Should Post-Treatment Check-ups Be Done?
In the initial period after treatment (the first month), weekly or monthly check-ups may be necessary. After the implants have fused with the bone, patients are generally advised to attend regular dental check-ups every six months or once a year. During these check-ups, the condition of the implants and prostheses, gum health, and bone level are checked, and professional oral hygiene cleaning is performed. Regular check-ups guarantee long-term success.
What Is Included In The Treatment Packages?
All-on-Four treatment packages in Istanbul generally include implant surgery (4 implants), necessary tooth extractions, temporary fixed prostheses, the implant brand warranty used, all radiographic imaging (panoramic/CBCT), medication, and a post-treatment care kit. Furthermore, health tourism services such as airport transfers and accommodation support for a certain period are also included in these packages for the comfort of international patients.
Are The Implant Brands Used In Istanbul Reliable?
Reputable dental clinics in Istanbul generally prefer internationally accepted, FDA or CE approved, high-quality titanium implant brands. These brands have a proven track record of success in the industry for many years. It is important for patients to obtain information about the implant brand to be used before the treatment and to request the validity certificates of these brands for the reliability of the treatment.
Is There A Change In Speech After Treatment?
After All-on-Four treatment, especially in the first days when the temporary prostheses are fitted, patients may feel a temporary difference or slight lisp in their speech and language. This is due to the tongue adapting to the new volume and shape of the prosthesis in the mouth. Generally, the speech muscles and tongue rapidly adapt to the new prosthesis within a few days or a maximum of a few weeks, and speech returns completely to normal. Reading aloud can accelerate this adaptation.
What Are The Touristic Benefits Of Getting Treatment In Istanbul?
Choosing to have All-on-Four treatment in Istanbul offers the opportunity to have a unique cultural and touristic experience while improving your dental health. During your recovery process, you can explore the historical peninsula, the Bosphorus, and modern art galleries. Combining the rest period after treatment with an enjoyable mini-vacation also contributes positively to the treatment process psychologically and allows you to return to your country with a renewed smile.
How Does Cure Holiday Help?
Cure Holiday is a health tourism intermediary institution that professionally organizes the All-on-Four treatment journey for international patients in Istanbul from start to finish. They help you choose the most experienced specialists and clinics suitable for you, create the most suitable package prices for your treatment, and manage all the logistical details such as accommodation, VIP transfers, and translation services throughout the process. Thus, patients can focus solely on their treatment.
How Does The Treatment Process Start With Cure Holiday?
The first step to start your treatment process with Cure Holiday is to request a free consultation appointment via their website or communication channels. Then, expert consultants evaluate the photos of your existing teeth and any X-rays or CBCT scans you may have. Based on this preliminary analysis, a personalized treatment plan, estimated cost, and travel package details are presented to you. As soon as you approve your plan, all your travel and treatment reservations are quickly organized by Cure Holiday.
Would you like to achieve the lasting comfort and aesthetics offered by All-on-Four treatment in Istanbul, with the support of a reliable intermediary institution like Cure Holiday?
