At Confident Dental Laboratory in Fridley, Minnesota, we are committed to providing dentists with top-quality solutions and outstanding customer service. The All-On-4 treatment concept offers a reliable and efficient solution for patients requiring full-arch restorations. By integrating a digital workflow, the process becomes more streamlined, accurate, and patient-friendly.

Introduction to Intraoral Scanning

Intraoral scanning is a cutting-edge technology that captures detailed 3D images of a patient’s oral structures. Utilizing a handheld scanner, dentists can create precise digital impressions without the discomfort associated with traditional impression materials. This technology enhances accuracy, reduces patient discomfort, and expedites the treatment process.

1. Patient Qualification

Before initiating the All-On-4 treatment, a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s existing dentures is essential:

• Analyze Existing Dentures: Evaluate the current dentures to ensure they meet the necessary standards of form and function. This assessment helps determine if modifications are needed or if new dentures should be fabricated.
• Calculate Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (VDO): Accurately measuring the VDO is crucial for optimal function and aesthetics. Traditional methods involve assessing facial aesthetics, phonetics, and physiological rest position. Digital approaches can enhance this process by providing precise measurements and facilitating better patient outcomes.

2. Digital Dental Scanning

Implementing digital scanning techniques is a pivotal component of the All-On-4 workflow:

• Scan Denture and Soft Tissue: Utilize intraoral scanners to capture detailed images of the patient’s dentures and surrounding soft tissues. Ensure that the scans extend beyond the rugae and down to the vestibule while the denture is in place. This comprehensive data collection is vital for accurate prosthesis fabrication.
• Share Data with Confident Dental Laboratory (CDL): Once the scans are complete, promptly transmit the digital files to CDL. Our team will utilize this data to design and manufacture the final prosthesis with precision, ensuring a seamless fit and optimal patient satisfaction.

3. All-On-4 Surgical Placement

The surgical phase involves precise placement of implants and components:

• Insert Multi-Unit Abutments (MUA): After implant placement, MUAs are secured to provide the appropriate angulation and support for the prosthesis. These abutments facilitate a stable foundation for the subsequent prosthetic components.
• Attach Scan Bodies to MUAs: Scan bodies are connected to the MUAs to accurately capture the position and orientation of the implants during the scanning process. This step is crucial for precise digital modeling.
• Scan Palatal Tissue: Intraoral scanning of the palatal tissue provides comprehensive data of the soft tissue contours, ensuring that the prosthesis will have an optimal fit and comfort for the patient.

4. Osseointegration and Temporary Denture Fabrication

Following implant placement, a provisional prosthesis is prepared:

• Designing the Provisional Prosthesis: Using the digital scans, a temporary denture is designed to accommodate the healing phase. This provisional serves both functional and aesthetic purposes during osseointegration.
• Fabrication with PMMA and Titanium Bases: The provisional is fabricated from Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) for durability and esthetics, incorporating titanium bases to ensure a secure connection to the implants. This combination offers strength and biocompatibility during the healing period.
• Utilization of a Printed Model: A 3D-printed model of the patient’s oral anatomy is employed to verify the fit and function of the provisional prosthesis before placement. This step ensures accuracy and reduces the need for adjustments during the delivery appointment.

5. Post-Osseointegration: Finalizing the Restoration

After the osseointegration period, the final steps involve ensuring the accuracy and fit of the definitive prosthesis:

• Verification of Models and Scans: Assess the precision of the digital models and intraoral scans using a verification jig. This device helps confirm the exact positioning of implants and abutments, ensuring that the final prosthesis will fit accurately.
• Collaboration with Confident Dental Laboratory (CDL): Share the verification jig and updated scans with CDL. Our team will meticulously review the data to design the final All-On-4 restoration, ensuring it meets the highest standards of function and aesthetics.
• Final Prosthesis Fabrication and Placement: Utilizing the verified digital information, CDL fabricates the definitive prosthesis. The final restoration is then placed, providing the patient with a durable and natural-looking solution.

The Importance of Early Collaboration in the Digital Workflow

Engaging Confident Dental Laboratory early in the treatment planning process is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes:

• Comprehensive Treatment Planning: Early involvement allows for thorough evaluation and planning, ensuring that all aspects of the patient’s needs are considered. This collaborative approach enhances the predictability and success of the treatment.
• Enhanced Communication: A strong partnership between the dentist and dental laboratory facilitates clear communication, enabling the seamless exchange of digital data and ideas. This synergy contributes to the efficiency and accuracy of the workflow.
• Customized Solutions: Early collaboration enables the development of tailored prosthetic solutions that meet the specific functional and aesthetic requirements of each patient, leading to higher satisfaction rates.

By embracing a digital workflow and fostering early collaboration between the dental practice and Confident Dental Laboratory, the All-On-4 treatment process becomes more efficient, accurate, and patient-centered. This integrated approach ensures exceptional results, reflecting our commitment to supporting dental professionals and enhancing patient care.