Dr. Richard Lestz performs 'teeth in a day' procedures
What is teeth in a day?
Teeth in a day, also known as "All-on-4" or "Same-Day Teeth," is a dental implant procedure that involves placing a full arch of teeth on just four dental implants. The procedure is designed to provide patients with a quick, efficient, and cost-effective solution to replace missing or damaged teeth, especially for those who require a full mouth restoration.
Are teeth in a day just the same as regular dental implants?
Teeth in a day, also known as "All-on-5" or "Same-Day Teeth," is a type of dental implant procedure, but it is not exactly the same as traditional dental implants. Here are some key differences between 'Teeth in a day' and traditional dental implants:
Number of implants: Teeth in a day only requires at least 4 dental implants to support a full arch of teeth, whereas traditional implants may require several implants for a single tooth or a small section of teeth. We choose to use 5 implants for more stability.
Timeframe: Teeth in a day can be completed in a single day, while traditional dental implants may take several months to complete.
Placement technique: The placement of 'Teeth in a day' implants is different from traditional implants. The implants are typically placed at an angle, which allows for better support and stability.
Temporary restoration: With 'Teeth in a day', a temporary set of teeth is attached to the implants immediately after placement. This allows patients to leave the office with a fully functional set of teeth while the permanent teeth are being fabricated. Traditional implants do not typically involve a temporary restoration.
Cost: Teeth in a day is generally more cost-effective than traditional implants because it requires fewer implants and is completed in a shorter timeframe.
It's important to note that while 'Teeth in a day' may be a suitable option for some patients, traditional dental implants may be a better option for others, depending on their individual needs and oral health status. Your dentist will assess your situation and recommend the best treatment option for you.
What sort of patient is suitable for teeth in a day?
Teeth in a day, also known as "All-on-5" or "Same-Day Teeth," may be a suitable option for certain patients who are missing teeth or require a full mouth restoration. Here are some characteristics of patients who may consider 'Teeth in a day'.
Missing multiple teeth or full arch of teeth: Teeth in a day is designed for patients who are missing multiple teeth or require a full mouth restoration.
Sufficient jawbone density: Patients who have sufficient jawbone density to support dental implants may be good candidates for Teeth in a day. However, if there is significant bone loss, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary.
Good overall health: Patients who are in good overall health and do not have any medical conditions that could compromise the success of the procedure, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may be good candidates for Teeth in a day.
Want a fast and efficient solution: Patients who want to avoid multiple dental appointments and the longer healing time associated with traditional dental implants may prefer Teeth in a day.
Want a cost-effective solution: Teeth in a day may be more cost-effective than traditional dental implants for some patients, as it requires fewer implants and can be completed in a shorter timeframe.
It's important to note that not all patients are suitable candidates for 'Teeth in a day'. Your dentist will assess your oral health and recommend the best treatment option for you.
How does the process of teeth in a day work?
The Teeth in a day procedure involves several steps:
Consultation and Treatment Planning: During the initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. They will also take X-rays and scans of your teeth and jaw to determine if you are a good candidate for Teeth in a day. Your dentist will then create a treatment plan, which may involve extracting any remaining teeth, if necessary, and placing the dental implants.
Implant Placement: On the day of the procedure, you will be given anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will then strategically place four dental implants into your jawbone. The implants are typically placed at an angle, which allows for better support and stability. Once the implants are in place, a temporary set of teeth is attached to the implants.
Follow-up Appointments: You will be required to return to the dental office for several follow-up appointments to ensure that the implants are healing properly and the temporary teeth are functioning correctly.
Fabrication of Permanent Teeth: Once the implants have fully integrated with your jawbone, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth and create a permanent set of teeth that will replace the temporary set. The permanent teeth will be custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.
Final Placement of Permanent Teeth: Once the permanent teeth are ready, your dentist will remove the temporary teeth and attach the permanent teeth to the implants.
The entire process of 'Teeth in a day' can typically be completed in one day, but it may take several months to complete all the steps and have the permanent teeth attached. Your dentist will discuss the timeline and expected outcomes of the procedure with you during your consultation.
Are there any drawbacks with teeth in a day?
- Not suitable for all patients: Teeth in a day may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those who have significant bone loss or other oral health issues that could affect the success of the procedure.
- Limited number of implants: Teeth in a day usually involves placing only four how we choose to add 5 dental implants to support a full arch of teeth. This may not provide the same level of stability and support as traditional implants that are placed individually for each tooth. However with 5 there is more stability.
- Temporary restoration: The temporary set of teeth that is attached to the implants immediately after placement may not fit perfectly or function as well as the final set of teeth.
- Healing time: While Teeth in a day can be completed in a single day, it may take several months for the implants to fully integrate with the jawbone before the permanent teeth can be attached.
- Maintenance: Like traditional dental implants, Teeth in a day requires regular maintenance and good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of the implants and prevent any complications.
- Cost: While Teeth in a day may be more cost-effective than traditional dental implants for some patients, it may still be a significant investment.
It's important to discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of 'Teeth in a day' with Dr Lestz and to find out if this procedure is suitable for you. Dr. Lestz will be able to ascertain if it is the right option for you based on your individual needs and goals and if medically you are fit enough to undergo this procedure.
'Teeth in a day is a procedure that we offer for some but not all patients. For the right patient is it a wonderful procedure that can quickly restore functionality and esthetics very quickly.' - Richard Lestz, DDS
