Many patients believe they are not candidates for dental implants because they have been missing teeth for years and were told they have bone loss. This assumption often leads people to believe bone grafting is unavoidable or that implants are not possible at all.
The truth is that bone loss does not automatically disqualify someone from getting implants. The All on 4 technique was specifically developed to help patients with reduced jawbone density receive fixed teeth without extensive grafting.
Yes. Many patients with moderate to advanced bone loss are still excellent candidates for All on 4 dental implants.
All on 4 uses four strategically placed implants to support a full arch of teeth. The two rear implants are placed at an angle of up to 45 degrees, allowing them to engage stronger, denser bone toward the front of the jaw. This approach often eliminates the need for sinus lifts or large bone grafts. This is the bare minimum - ideally more implants are placed and thats where one comes up with the term ALL on "X"
By maximizing the use of existing bone, All on 4 can provide immediate stability even when bone volume is limited.
The angled placement of the back implants serves two important purposes.
First, it allows the implants to avoid critical anatomical structures such as the sinus cavities in the upper jaw and the nerve canal in the lower jaw.
Second, it improves how chewing forces are distributed across the implants. This leads directly into a key biomechanical concept known as AP spread.
AP spread refers to the distance between the front and back implants supporting a full arch restoration. A greater AP spread improves stability and reduces stress on each implant.
Proper AP spread helps:
Reduce excessive force on implants
Limit how far back teeth extend
Lower the risk of screw loosening or mechanical failure
Improve long term durability of the prosthesis
Angled posterior implants increase functional AP spread without adding implants or grafting. This is one of the main reasons All on 4 has strong long term outcomes when properly planned.
No. Bone grafts are only required when implants cannot be placed in a stable and biomechanically favorable position.
With advanced three dimensional imaging and digital treatment planning, many patients with bone loss can avoid grafting entirely. Implant candidacy is based on bone quality, implant positioning, and force management rather than bone quantity alone.
In cases of more advanced bone loss, additional planning strategies may be used. One example is remote anchorage, which involves securing implants in stronger bone areas to improve overall force distribution.
Remote anchorage is not needed for every patient, but when used appropriately, it can expand treatment options for patients who were previously told implants were not possible.
If you have been missing teeth for years or were told you do not have enough bone, you may still be a candidate for All on 4 dental implants.
Successful treatment depends on:
Bone quality
Implant positioning
AP spread and force distribution
Comprehensive digital planning
A proper evaluation can determine whether grafting is necessary or if existing bone can be used safely and predictably.
If you want more information on all on x check out out this link for more informationÂ
https://1smiledental.com/blog/
We provide All on 4 dental implant care for patients in:
Munster
Highland
Schererville
Dyer
Hammond
Crown Point
Valparaiso
Northwest Indiana
Chicagoland
If you are wondering whether you qualify for All on 4 implants without bone grafting, the next step is a comprehensive evaluation using advanced imaging and planning.
Schedule your All on 4 consultation today to find out if you are a candidate and explore your options for fixed teeth with long term stability.
As your trusted Schereville dentist, we offer a range of services and utilize advanced dental technology to provide our patients with quality, precise and comfortable care. Building relationships with our patients built on trust is the key to our success.