All-on-4 Dental Implants in Florissant, MO
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
For patients facing the loss of an entire upper or lower arch, All-on-4 offers a fixed, full-arch restoration anchored by just four implants. Instead of replacing teeth one at a time, the technique uses the four implants as a stable foundation for a complete set of natural-looking teeth — a practical option for many patients across Florissant, St. Louis, and North County who want a permanent alternative to removable dentures.
The two back implants are placed at an angle to make the most of the available bone, which often allows patients with limited bone density to qualify without extensive grafting. The result is a secure, non-removable set of teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dentures
All-on-4 (Fixed)
Anchored to implants placed in the jaw, so the teeth stay fixed in your mouth. There is nothing to take out, no adhesives, and the implants help preserve the jawbone over time. Many patients find chewing and speaking feel close to natural.
Traditional Dentures (Removable)
Rest on the gums and are removed for cleaning. They can shift while eating or speaking, may require adhesives, and do not stimulate the underlying bone, which can change the fit over time.
When There Isn’t Enough Bone: Zygomatic, Pterygoid & Trans-Nasal Options
Significant bone loss in the upper jaw does not automatically rule out fixed teeth. When standard implants cannot be anchored in the jaw, our surgeons can use specialized implants that draw stability from other facial bone. Zygomatic implants anchor into the cheekbone, pterygoid implants engage the bone behind the upper molars, and trans-nasal implants use bone near the floor of the nose. These approaches can make full-arch restoration possible for patients who were previously told they were not candidates.
The All-on-4 Process, Step by Step
- Consultation & 3D imaging. A scan maps your bone and nerves so treatment can be planned precisely. See our overview of the implant placement process for what to expect.
- Surgical placement. Any remaining failing teeth are removed and the four implants are placed in a single appointment.
- Temporary teeth. A temporary fixed prosthesis may be attached the same day, so you leave with teeth.
- Healing. Over the next few months the implants integrate with the bone while you follow a soft-food diet.
- Final restoration. Your custom final teeth are fitted once healing is complete.
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What Our Patients Say
Premier Institute Of Oral & Facial Surgery
Patient Review
The staff here are wonderful. I had 4 wisdom teeth extracted; they talked me through the entire procedure, made sure I was comfortable, and were very understanding and accommodating. Very quick and thorough, I could not be more appreciative of how smooth they made the process.
- Ny
Patient Review
My recent consultation visit with Dr. Heatrice's office was great. The staff members are incredibly nice. Dr. Heatrice provided very clear explanations and expectations of the procedures that could be done to address my dental concerns. I am very happy with my experience and highly recommend Dr. Heatrice and his team.
- D. Marie H.
Patient Review
- Keeba Jackson
Patient Review
- Brittney Bland
Patient Review
Took my daughter to get here wisdom teeth removed! It was a great experience from start to finish. They were very professional, knowledgeable and fast! I would highly recommend Dr. Heatrice to anyone needing oral surgery.
- Vanessa Karell
Frequently Asked Questions About All-on-4
What are All-on-4 dental implants?
All-on-4 is a full-arch tooth replacement that restores an entire upper or lower jaw of teeth using four dental implants as a foundation. The four implants anchor a fixed, custom prosthesis, so your replacement teeth stay securely in place instead of resting on the gums like a removable denture. It is designed for patients who are missing most or all of their teeth in an arch, or who expect to lose them.
How is All-on-4 different from traditional dentures?
All-on-4 teeth are anchored to implants and stay fixed in your mouth, while traditional dentures rest on the gums and are taken out for cleaning. Because the prosthesis is supported by implants in the jawbone, many patients find it more stable for chewing and speaking and do not need denture adhesives. Your surgeon can review which option best fits your bone, health, and goals at a consultation.
Can I still get All-on-4 if I’ve been told I don’t have enough bone for implants?
Often yes — the All-on-4 implants are angled to make the most of the bone you have, so patients with limited bone density are frequently still candidates. When bone loss is more advanced, alternatives such as zygomatic, pterygoid, or trans-nasal implants can anchor the prosthesis using bone in the cheek or other areas of the face. A 3D scan and consultation determine the right approach for you.
Can I get teeth the same day as my implant surgery?
In many cases a temporary set of fixed teeth can be attached the same day as your implant surgery, so you do not leave without teeth. Whether immediate teeth are right for you depends on your bone quality and your surgeon’s assessment at the time of placement. Your custom final teeth are fitted after the implants have healed and integrated with the bone.
How many implants are used, and will they replace all of my teeth?
All-on-4 uses four implants per arch to support a full set of fixed replacement teeth, and some cases use additional implants depending on your jaw and bite. One prosthesis replaces all of the teeth in that arch, and both arches can be treated if needed. Your surgeon confirms the exact number when planning your treatment.
Does insurance or Medicaid cover All-on-4?
Coverage varies by plan, and many dental or medical plans help with part of the cost of implant treatment. Our team can review your benefits and walk you through your options before you begin.
What affects the cost of All-on-4, and is financing available?
The cost of All-on-4 depends on factors such as whether you treat one arch or both, the type of prosthesis, the materials used, and any preparatory steps like extractions or bone grafting. We go over the details specific to your case at your consultation so you know what to expect before moving forward, and financing options may be available to help.
How long is recovery after All-on-4 surgery?
Most patients return to everyday activities within a few days, with swelling and soreness that ease over the first week or two. You will eat a soft-food diet while the implants heal and integrate with the bone over the following months, until your final teeth are placed. Your surgeon provides aftercare instructions tailored to your situation.
What does the All-on-4 process involve from start to finish?
Treatment starts with a consultation and 3D imaging to plan your implant placement, followed by a surgical appointment where any remaining teeth are removed and the four implants are placed. A temporary prosthesis may be attached the same day, and once the implants heal, your custom final teeth are fitted.
Who performs All-on-4 surgery at Premier Institute of Oral & Facial Surgery?
Your All-on-4 treatment is performed by our oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who have advanced surgical training in dental implant placement, including complex cases with significant bone loss. You will meet your surgeon at your consultation and review a treatment plan built around your needs.
