Tooth Replacement Options All-on-4 vs. Dentures

Tooth loss affects far more than just your smile. It can change how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself every day. While traditional dentures have helped millions of people restore function, modern implant dentistry now offers advanced alternatives like All-on-4 dental implants. At Selah Creek Dental, Dr. Michael McKay specializes in restorative dentistry, including dental implants, All-on-4 full-arch restorations, and custom dentures, helping patients choose the solution that best fits their needs.

Understanding the differences between these options can help you make a confident, informed decision about your oral health.

What Are Traditional Dentures?

Traditional dentures are removable prosthetic teeth designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They can be full dentures (replacing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (replacing several missing teeth).

Benefits of traditional dentures include:

• A non-surgical option for tooth replacement

• Lower upfront cost

• Improved appearance and basic chewing function

However, dentures rest on the gums rather than being anchored to the jawbone. Over time, this can lead to jawbone shrinkage, facial sagging, sore spots, and the need for frequent adjustments or relines.

What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are a full-arch implant solution that uses four strategically placed dental implants to support an entire set of fixed replacement teeth. These implants are placed in areas of stronger bone, often eliminating the need for bone grafting.

Once placed, the implants fuse with the jawbone, creating a strong, stable foundation that closely mimics natural teeth.

Key advantages of All-on-4 implants include:

• A fixed, non-removable smile

• Stronger biting and chewing power

• Improved speech clarity

• Preservation of jawbone and facial structure

All-on-4 vs Dentures: Key Differences

Stability and Comfort

Dentures can slip or move, especially when eating or speaking. All-on-4 implants are permanently secured, offering superior comfort and confidence.

Chewing Function

All-on-4 implants restore significantly more bite force than dentures, allowing patients to enjoy a wider range of foods.

Bone Health

Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone, which can lead to bone loss. Dental implants help preserve bone and prevent facial collapse over time.

Daily Maintenance

Dentures require removal, soaking, and adhesives. All-on-4 implants are cared for much like natural teeth with regular brushing and professional cleanings.

Who Is a Good Candidate for All-on-4?

Many patients who are missing most or all of their teeth — or who struggle with loose dentures — may be excellent candidates for All-on-4 implants. Even patients with some bone loss can often qualify due to the angled implant placement technique.

At Selah Creek Dental, Dr. McKay performs comprehensive evaluations to determine the best solution based on bone structure, oral health, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

Restorative Dentistry Expertise at Selah Creek Dental

Selah Creek Dental offers comprehensive restorative solutions under one roof, including:

• Single and multiple dental implants

• All-on-4 full-arch dental implants

• Implant-supported dentures

• Custom traditional dentures

With advanced training and experience in implant and restorative dentistry, the team focuses on long-term function, comfort, and natural-looking results. Every treatment plan is personalized to ensure patients feel informed, supported, and confident throughout the process.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between traditional dentures and All-on-4 implants depends on your oral health, lifestyle, budget, and goals. Dentures may be suitable for some patients, while others benefit greatly from the stability and longevity of implant-supported solutions.

Schedule a consultation at Selah Creek Dental to explore all options, ask questions, and receive expert guidance tailored to your needs.