If you have undergone tooth extractions for your whole mouth, dental implants can ensure that you bite, chew, and speak properly. You simply need to decide what type you want. There are many viable options, including all-on-four implants. Below, learn more about this implant, and talk with your dentist about whether they're a suitable choice for you.

What Are All-On-Four Dental Implants?

The typical adult human mouth has 32 teeth. If you need to have all of your teeth removed, you might have wondered whether you need 32 individual dental implants. Fortunately, you can get eight instead: four on the top and four on the bottom. Each implant holds artificial teeth or crowns individually molded to fit your mouth. A bridge is affixed to your gums with titanium screws that support the crowns, which are usually fashioned from porcelain, resin, metal, or a combination of them.

What Are the Benefits?

All-on-four implants are more convenient, cost-efficient, and easier to maintain than dentures or 32 separate implants. For example, since they're made from titanium, they can fuse with your jaw bone, which would otherwise lose mass without being attached to your natural teeth. With a strong jaw bone, your teeth and bite will be firm, even, and painless. The implants last about 10 to 15 years with thorough and regular dental hygiene. Dentures need to be replaced every five to 10 years.

Dental implants like these are also crucial for keeping your bite and jaw aligned. This, in turn, helps you eat, speak, and produce saliva properly, preventing issues such as jaw pain, sleep apnea, digestive disorders, and gum disease.

If you're ready to see whether all-on-four dental implants would work for you, turn to Dentistry By Design in Charlottesville, VA. Since 2000, they've been offering top-notch general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry for every patient. With their friendly staff and up-to-date equipment, they promise a stress-free visit and individualized attention every time you come so that you can always leave with a refreshed smile. Schedule an appointment by calling them at (434) 975-6181 or messaging them online.