Baton Rouge Dentist

If I can’t afford All-on-4, what are my options?

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I have been looking for implant dentures and saw a dentist who said he would do All-on-4 implants for me. I asked him for options, but he said that is my only recommendation. His cost is over $25,000, which is impossible for me to pay. If I cannot get implant dentures, what else is left? Thank you. Franklin from GA

Franklin,

We are concerned about a dentist who only recommends one type of treatment and does not offer options. For example, did the dentist examine your teeth and take a CT scan before recommending All-on-4 implants? All-on-4 is a technique that allows some patients to get implant dentures without bone grafting. But it does not work for everyone.

Implant Denture Alternatives to All-on-4

You can find a skilled implant dentist who offers affordable alternatives to All-on-4. Some alternatives include:

  • Snap-on denture – Two standard implants support your denture. A dentist will place the implants toward the front of your mouth. And your denture base will snap onto the implants.
  • Mini implants – Two or more many implants can stabilize your denture. But their support is not as strong as standard implants. Still, the risk is lower than All-on-4 implants, which require specialized skill and specific use.

If You Need Bone Grafting

Diagram of lower affordable dental implants with four screws
Ask an implant dentist about affordable implant options

If you need bone grafting because your jawbone levels are low, a dentist may recommend All-on-4 to prevent the need for grafting. But it is not your only option.

  • Depending on your case, you may have a better outcome if you agree to bone grafting.
  • Expect to three to four months of healing time before your dentist can place the implants.
  • A skilled implant dentist will explain the results you can expect with a snap-on denture vs. mini implants.

Schedule a Consultation

Although you cannot afford All-on-4, it does not mean that you cannot get implant dentures. Schedule a consultation with a skilled implant dentist to discuss alternatives that cost less. Before a dentist can offer definite treatment options, you will need an exam and a CT scan. The CT scan will measure your bone volume and help the dentist see your oral cavities to plan for precise implant placement.

Dr. Ryan Perry, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.