The History About All-On-4 Implants: How This Procedure revolutionized Dentistry

The All-on-4 dental procedure transformed full-mouth restoration by creating a long-term and a stable solution for people that are missing most of their teeth. This technique was developed by the Portuguese dentist Dr. Paulo Malo in the 1990s, it has evolved with advancements in implant technology, surgical techniques, and prosthetic design. Nowadays, the All-on-4 procedure remains a leading choice for patients seeking a permanent solution to regain their ability to eat, speak and smile.

For many years, people with severe tooth loss had limited options for replacing their smile, often relying on traditional and uncomfortable dentures that provided inconsistent stability or dozens of single implants that entailed long and expensive dental treatments. The introduction of the All-on-4 implant technique transformed full mouth restoration by offering a permanent solution with fewer implants through a minimally invasive method.

Developed by Dr. Paulo Malo in Portugal, All-on-4 implants changed the field of dental implantology, allowing patients with no teeth to regain full function and aesthetics without the need for bone grafting. This invention has continued to evolve, thanks to companies like Straumann that have been at the forefront of the development of new materials and digital planning techniques which have enhanced the process improving the success rates.

In this blog we’ll go over the early days of this procedure, what options existed before it and how it came to be what it is today.

The Early Days of Dental Implants

Before the implants we know nowadays, patients with several missing teeth relied on removable dentures, which led to discomfort, difficulty eating, and bone loss. Whilst there is historical evidence that shows that dental implants were present in ancient civilizations, including the Mayan Civilization in 600AD, the introduction of titanium dental implants in the 1950s, was a major breakthrough that laid the foundation for modern implants.

Initially, full-mouth restorations required six to eight implants per jaw, often requiring bone grafting to ensure implant stability. While it is effective and still used today, these procedures are costly, time-consuming, and require extensive healing periods.

The First All-on-4

Dr. Paulo Malo, recognizing the need for a more efficient approach and in collaboration with Nobel Biocare, a world renowned dental implant manufacturing company developed the All-on-4 technique in the 1990s. This innovative method placed four implants per arch, with the two posterior implants angled to maximize available bone support. By adjusting the position of the back implants, the procedure reduced the need for bone grafting, making it a viable option for more patients.

This approach provided many benefits, including reduced treatment time, lower costs, and faster recovery periods compared to traditional implants. It allowed patients to get a fixed prosthesis on the same day as surgery, earning it the nickname “teeth in a day.”

Technological Advancements in All-on-4 Implants

Since its invention, the All-on-4 technique has benefited from advancements in dental technology:

3D Imaging & Digital Planning: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has improved treatment planning by providing precise bone assessments, leading to better implant positioning and increased long-term success rate.
Stronger Materials: The evolution of titanium and zirconia implants has increased the durability and biocompatibility outcomes.
Improved Prosthetic: Custome prostheses and better materials like monolithic zirconia provide better functionality compared to traditional options.
Minimally Invasive: New surgical protocols such as the Malo Protocol have reduced recovery time and post-operative discomfort, making the procedure more accessible to patients with compromised bone health.

Why All-on-4 Remains a Leading Choice for Full-mouth Restoration

The All-on-4 protocol has stood the test of time due to its high success rates and patient satisfaction. Some of its key advantages include:

Immediate Results: Patients leave the clinic with a fixed prosthesis on the same day of surgery without the need to go without teeth for extended periods of time.
Minimal Bone Requirements: Angled or zygomatic implants eliminate the need for complex bone grafting in most cases.
Cost-Effectiveness: Fewer implants reduce the treatment costs compared to traditional full-arch implants.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved speech and chewing ability make All-on-4 a preferred choice over dentures.

Considering All-on-4? Aleriom Can Help You

If you’re exploring full-mouth dental restoration, All-on-4 implants offer a solution with lasting benefits. At Aleriom, we connect patients with leading implant specialists trained by Dr. Paulo Malo himself and who use state-of-the-art technology to ensure high-quality results. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, from consultation to post-surgical care.

FAQs

How much does an All-On-4 Cost with Zygomatic Implants?

The All-On-4 Implant Protocol at Aleriom includes your entire dental treatment, any dental extractions you may require, the sedation during the procedure, all dental appointments and medication plus your 6 night hotel stay, airport pick-up, drop-off and all transportation to and from your dental appointments. The first phase has a cost of $11,000 for 1 arch and $16,800 for top and bottom arches.

How do I book my trip with Aleriom?

Just send us a message or give us a call and tell us what you’re interested in. We’ll then ask for a few pictures of your smile and any recent scans you may have, with these we’ll be able to get a better understanding of your case. With these, we’ll be able to arrange a short video consultation with our dental team and you’ll get your dental trip quote. To book your trip you can either send us your flight confirmation or carry out a small down-payment.

When do I have to pay for my dental trip?

At Aleriom we believe that trust is the most important thing when getting your dental treatment. When you book with Aleriom, you won’t need to carry out any payments until you have met with the dental team during your first dental appointment and are confident and comfortable with getting your treatment with them. Once you’re ready, the payment should be carried out 48 hours before your dental procedure. If you have any questions regarding the payment, feel free to give us a call.