Dr. Keith Phillips has over 25 years of expertise in specialized dental practice, including cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, and sedation dentistry. Dr. Phillips has shared his expertise on dental implants in lectures and his contribution to the reference book Implant Aesthetics, which is the gold standard of implant technology.
Dr. Phillips is an Affiliate Associate Professor at the University of Washington, University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Southern California. He lectures nationally and internationally, has contributed extensively to textbooks and professional journal publications, and is a former Associate Editor of the Journal of the American Dental Association.
We serve patients in the greater Tacoma area including Gig Harbor, Federal Way and Puyallup, WA. Our office is located at 5619 Valley Ave E., Tacoma, WA 98424 — just off the freeway.
To get the full benefit of All-on-4 dental implants, schedule a consultation today. Call Implant Dentistry Northwest at (253) 600-2621.
What All-on-4 Implants are and Why they are Beneficial
The All-on-4 dental procedure is an innovative and increasingly popular treatment option for people who need a complete smile makeover. The procedure involves surgical placement of four dental implants which are then used to support a full-arch fixed denture. The fixed denture is placed immediately, allowing patients to have a fully functional new set of teeth in one day.
The benefits of All-on-4 implant dentistry include:
- Reduced treatment time: Unlike traditional implant procedures, All-on-4 implants have a significantly reduced treatment time. The innovative technique allows for the placement of a full arch in a single surgical session.
- Doctor Expertise: Dr. Phillips leads a team of All-on-4 implant experts. Their expertise ensures that each patient receives quality, personalized treatment.
- Improved Function: All-on-4 implants restore full oral function, allowing patients to enjoy a wide variety of foods and speak with confidence.
The All-on-4 Dental Implant Procedure
This procedure restores a patient’s smile, building confidence and self-esteem. Many patients also see a dramatic improvement in functionality and their overall health as they are able to eat a wider variety of nutritious food. It is done at a fraction of the cost and treatment time of traditional dental implants.
Dr. Phillips, a prosthodontist and implant specialist, uses advanced technologies, such as a 3-D CT scan, to evaluate proper implant placement and CAD design software for the custom denture. These cutting-edge technologies help ensure a precise fit and a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
Clinical research shows high success rates. A longitudinal study of 245 patients conducted by Paulo Malo, PhD., DDS, et al. of the Malo Clinic in Lisbon, Portugal, showed that “prostheses’ survival rate was 99.2 percent with up to 10 years of follow-up.” Malo’s study, published in the March 1, 2011 issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association, concluded that the “immediate-function implant concept…is viable in the long term.”
While the process of traditional dental implants may take 18 months or more, the All-on-4 technique can be done in as few as five appointments over a three-month period.
How important is your smile?
- A person’s smile is the first thing most people notice when they meet someone.
- A person’s smile is what about half of those who participated in a recent survey said that they remember about a person long after meeting them.
- Your smile is the single most important investment you can make to get a job, or to get a date!
- A great smile significantly improves a person’s appearance.
- Having a great smile improves a person’s confidence.
That’s worth a lot!
How do All-on-4 Implant Dentures Improve Your Smile?
All-on-4 is the full-mouth “fixed bridge” which allows your family dentist to give a person who has lost all or most of their teeth a permanent set of replacement teeth affixed to just four dental implants.
These teeth stay in your mouth at all times and make you look fabulous.
Who Is A Candidate for All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 implants are the ideal solution for people who have lost most or all of their teeth due to decay, disease or trauma. In order for the implants to be successful, candidates would need to have sufficient bone density to support them. If you are unhappy with your current dentures, and are looking for the most stable and permanent solution, All-on-4 implants would be your best choice.
The All-on-4 Procedure
Your All-on-4 implant procedure progresses through three stages:
- Consultation and Planning: Our dental team will assess your oral health, discuss your goals and develop a personalized treatment plan. We will need to take detailed scans and impressions to ensure the precise placement of the implants.
- Implant Placement: Four titanium implants are strategically positioned into the jawbone. These serve as the foundation for your new teeth. This procedure is carried out under sedation or local anesthesia, so you will be comfortable throughout.
- Healing and Denture Placement: A temporary set of dentures is then attached to the implants so that you can leave our clinic with a functional and aesthetically pleasing smile. We would need to give the implants a few months to fuse to the jawbone and allow you to heal fully. Once that is complete, we will then attach your permanent, custom-designed dentures.
Things to Consider After Your Surgery
Discomfort or Pain: The All-On-4 procedure is generally well tolerated, although some discomfort or pain is normal for a short while after the surgery. We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and give you a prescription for pain management medication.
Recovery Time: You should be able to return to your normal activities in just a few days - the exact time differs from patient to patient. Full healing and osseointegration (the fusion of the implants into the jawbone) takes several months. It is vital that you follow all aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments.
What is the cost of All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a cost-effective alternative to a full-arch reconstruction using multiple implants. That said, there’s no question that it is costly. Typically, All-on-4 dental implants cost $25,000 – $30,000 per arch. It is a long-lasting, durable solution that many patients have said is a “life-changing” procedure as it improves their oral function, appearance, comfort, and overall quality of life.
Dental Insurance may contribute between $1000- $2500 a year toward procedures like an All-on-4, and we structure the procedure to maximize this coverage. There are financing plans available.