All-on-X

Overview

All-on-X replaces an entire arch of teeth with a fixed bridge anchored on a small number of dental implants — typically around four per arch, which is where the name comes from. Compared with placing an implant per missing tooth, the technique uses fewer implants while still giving you a result that does not come out and that handles biting forces close to natural teeth. Dr. Jill Rowland provides All-on-X at Diamond Dentistry in Wellington, FL.

Who It Helps

The procedure is designed for adults missing most or all teeth in an arch (or who are heading there soon) and who want a permanent solution rather than a removable denture. Good candidates have enough jawbone to anchor the four posts, or are willing to undergo bone grafting first to build that volume up.

• Stable, fixed restoration that does not slip when you eat or talk

• Restored chewing power and speech clarity

• Maintains jawbone around the implants, slowing the bone loss that comes with traditional dentures

• Fewer implants than a per-tooth approach, which usually means less surgery and lower cost

The Treatment Sequence

Dr. Rowland begins with imaging and impressions, then builds out a treatment plan around your bone volume, bite, and any extractions still needed. Sedation options are discussed up front. The placement appointment seats the implants and a temporary, immediate-load restoration so you do not leave without teeth. Over the next four to six months the implants integrate with the jawbone (osseointegration); during that period you wear the temporary while the final, custom prosthesis is fabricated. At the last visit Dr. Rowland fits and torques the permanent bridge into place.

Aftercare

Day-to-day care is similar to natural teeth: brush twice daily, clean under and around the prosthesis with the tools Dr. Rowland recommends (water flosser, interdental brushes), and keep your hygiene visits at Diamond Dentistry And Aesthetics so the implants and surrounding gum tissue stay healthy.