Frequently Asked Questions
Are you considering having the All-on-4® or an Implant-Supported Overdenture?
- are you ready to To Take The Next Step?
17 Questions to ask your Dentist if you are Considering Full Mouth Dental Implants
Getting dental implants is a very big financial and time commitment. Make sure you ask the right questions when considering a dentist for implant surgery for the All-on-4® or an implant overdenture.
1. How Many Full-Arch (All-on-4®) Cases Has the Dentist Completed—Both Surgically and Restoratively?
Experience matters when it comes to full-arch dental implant treatment. All-on-4® is a complex procedure that requires advanced surgical skill, restorative expertise, and precise coordination between both phases of care.
Patients should ask whether the dentist has personally completed a high volume of full-arch cases from start to finish, including:
- Surgical placement of the dental implants
- Design, restoration, and delivery of the final prosthetic teeth
It’s important to understand that some practices separate these roles between multiple providers, which can increase the risk of miscommunication and inconsistencies in treatment planning.
Patients should also ask:
- How many full-arch cases does the dentist complete each year
- Whether the dentist handles both the surgical and restorative phases
- If the team uses a repeatable, proven system for All-on-4® treatment
At Aria Dental Implant Center, full-arch dental implants are not an occasional service—they are our focus. Our doctors have completed thousands of All-on-4® cases, managing both the surgical and restorative aspects of treatment to ensure precision, predictability, and long-term success.
Choosing a dentist with extensive, hands-on full-arch experience can make a meaningful difference in your comfort, results, and overall outcome.
2. Who Will Be Administering My Sedation or Anesthesia During All-on-4® Surgery?
Sedation and anesthesia play a critical role in the comfort and safety of full-arch dental implant treatment. Patients should ask who will be responsible for their anesthesia and what level of training that provider has.
Some dental practices use a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) to administer anesthesia. While CRNAs are trained professionals, they typically work in a medical setting under physician oversight and may not have specialized, procedure-specific training in complex dental implant surgery.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we choose to work with a board-certified dental anesthesiologist.
A dental anesthesiologist is a dentist who has completed advanced hospital-based anesthesia training specifically for dental and oral surgery procedures.
This matters because a dental anesthesiologist:
- Is uniquely trained in airway management during dental surgery
- Understands the specific demands of full-arch implant procedures
- Can safely adjust anesthesia in real time based on surgical needs
- Focuses exclusively on patient monitoring, comfort, and safety throughout the procedure
By partnering with a dental anesthesiologist, Aria ensures that your care is managed by a provider whose sole responsibility is your safety and comfort – allowing our surgical team to focus entirely on delivering precise, high-quality implant care.
Our commitment to using a dental anesthesiologist reflects our belief that patients deserve the highest level of care at every step of treatment.
3. Why Is It Important What Dental Implant System a Dentist or Implant Center Uses?
Not all dental implants are the same. The implant system your dentist uses plays a major role in the long-term success, safety, and serviceability of your All-on-4® treatment.
Patients should ask which implant brand is being used and why.
High-quality, well-established implant systems are important because they:
- Are clinically proven with decades of research and long-term success data
- Are manufactured with tight tolerances, ensuring a precise fit between the implant and prosthetic teeth
- Offer predictable integration with the jawbone
- Provide long-term availability of parts, so your restoration can be serviced or repaired years down the road.
Some centers use lesser-known or off-brand implants to reduce costs. While this may lower the initial price, it can create problems in the future – especially if components become unavailable or incompatible with future repairs.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we use trusted, globally recognized implant systems that are supported by extensive research and long-term clinical data. This ensures our patients receive implants that are not only reliable today but also serviceable and supported for many years to come.
Choosing a proven implant system is integral to protecting your investment, and your smile.
4. Why Is It Important Which Dental Lab an Implant Center Uses - And Is an In-House Lab Important?
The dental laboratory plays a critical role in the quality, fit, appearance, and longevity of your All-on-4® restoration. Patients often focus on the surgery, but the final result depends just as much on the lab that designs and fabricates the teeth.
Patients should ask where their prosthetic teeth are being made and who is responsible for that process.
The dental lab matters because it affects:
- Precision of fit, which impacts comfort, function, and long-term implant health
- Strength and durability of the final zirconia prosthesis
- Aesthetics, including tooth shape, color, and natural appearance
- Turnaround time for temporary and final teeth
- Consistency and quality control throughout treatment
Some implant centers outsource their lab work to third-party labs, often off-site or even out of state. This can lead to longer wait times, limited customization, and less direct communication between the surgeon, restorative dentist, and lab technician.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we have our own in-house digital dental laboratory. This allows for:
- Real-time collaboration between doctors and lab technicians
- Faster delivery of temporary and final zirconia teeth
- Greater customization and aesthetic control
- Immediate adjustments when needed
- Full accountability from start to finish
An in-house lab is not required for every practice, but when properly integrated, it can significantly enhance efficiency, accuracy, and patient experience.
At Aria, our in-house lab is a key part of how we deliver high-quality, predictable, and timely All-on-4® results – without unnecessary delays or surprises.
5. How Experienced Is the Dental Lab With All-on-4® Restorations?
The experience of the dental laboratory is just as important as the experience of the dentist when it comes to All-on-4® treatment. Full-arch implant restorations are complex and require advanced design, precision engineering, and deep familiarity with implant-supported prosthetics.
Patients should ask how many full-arch (All-on-4® or All-on-X) cases the dental lab has completed—not just single crowns or bridges.
A highly experienced full-arch lab:
- Understands the unique demands of implant-supported zirconia restorations
- Designs prosthetics for proper bite, speech, and long-term function
- Anticipates and prevents common full-arch complications
- Delivers consistent, predictable results
At Aria Dental Implant Center, our in-house digital dental laboratory has completed thousands of full-arch implant cases. Because our lab works directly with our surgical and restorative doctors every day, each case benefits from seamless communication, real-time collaboration, and precise quality control.
This level of experience helps ensure your final zirconia teeth are not only beautiful—but also strong, comfortable, and built to last.
When choosing an implant center, asking about lab experience is an important step in protecting your long-term results.
6. What Is the Difference Between “Fixed” and Removable Implant Prosthetic Teeth?
When exploring full-arch dental implant options, it’s important to understand the difference between fixed and removable prosthetic teeth—because they offer very different experiences, functionality, and long-term outcomes.
Fixed implant prosthetic teeth are securely attached to dental implants and do not come out. They are designed to function and feel like natural teeth and are only removed by a dentist when necessary for maintenance or service.
Removable implant prosthetic teeth (often referred to as snap-in or overdentures) are designed to be taken out by the patient for cleaning. While they are more stable than traditional dentures, they are still removable and may not offer the same strength, comfort, or chewing ability as fixed teeth.
Patients should consider the following differences:
Fixed Prosthetic Teeth
- Permanently attached to dental implants
- Feel and function most like natural teeth
- Allow for stronger biting and chewing
- Do not shift or move
- Typically made from durable materials like zirconia
- Higher level of comfort and confidence
Removable Prosthetic Teeth
- Can be taken out daily by the patient
- May feel bulkier or less natural
- Usually have lower biting force
- Often made with acrylic components
- May require more frequent replacement or adjustments
At Aria Dental Implant Center, our All-on-4® treatment is designed to deliver fixed, implant-supported zirconia teeth whenever appropriate—giving patients a stable, long-lasting solution that allows them to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Understanding whether a treatment plan offers fixed or removable teeth is an important part of making an informed decision about your care.
7. How Long Will the Entire All-on-4® Process Take?
At Aria Dental Implant Center, the All-on-4® process is designed to be both efficient and precise, without compromising quality. Thanks to Dr. Joe’s extensive full-arch experience and our state-of-the-art in-house digital dental laboratory, most patients can receive their final zirconia teeth within approximately 14 days after surgery.
Here’s what patients can expect:
- Day of surgery: You leave the office with 3D-printed temporary teeth, so you are never without a smile.
- Shortly after surgery: That temporary set is revised and refined to optimize comfort, bite, and aesthetics while preparing for your final teeth.
- Around 14 days: In most cases, your custom zirconia prosthesis is delivered and secured.
Many implant centers require patients to wait four to six months before receiving their final teeth. Other centers may advertise “final teeth next day,” but this is not always realistic—full-arch restorations often require adjustments and refinements to achieve the proper fit, bite, and appearance.
At Aria, our approach prioritizes accuracy, durability, and long-term success, allowing us to deliver zirconia teeth quickly—without rushing the process.
In addition, our streamlined digital workflow allows patients to receive premium zirconia teeth in about two weeks while saving up to $20,000 compared to some national corporate implant centers.
The result is a faster, more predictable, and more affordable path to a confident, long-lasting smile.
8. Will I Have to Go Without Teeth After All-on-4® Surgery?
No. With All-on-4® treatment at Aria Dental Implant Center, patients do not go without teeth after surgery.
On the day of surgery, patients leave our office with a set of custom 3D-printed temporary teeth. This allows you to smile, speak, and function immediately while your implants heal.
After surgery, that temporary set is revised and refined to improve comfort, bite, and aesthetics as we prepare for your final restoration. In most cases, patients receive their custom zirconia teeth within approximately 14 days.
Some implant centers may require patients to wait months before receiving their final teeth or may provide limited temporary options. At Aria, our in-house digital dental laboratory and streamlined process ensure that patients are never left without a smile at any point during treatment.
Our goal is to provide a smooth, comfortable experience—so you can move forward with confidence from day one.
9. What Is Included in the All-on-4® or All-on-X Treatment Plan?
When evaluating an All-on-4® or All-on-X treatment plan, it’s essential to understand precisely what is included—and what may cost extra later. Not all implant centers structure their treatment the same way, and unclear pricing can lead to unexpected fees.
Patients should ask their dentist whether the treatment plan includes:
- Comprehensive diagnostics and planning, including 3D CBCT scans and digital smile design
- All surgical procedures, including tooth extractions (if needed), implant placement, and bone reduction when indicated
- Sedation or anesthesia options for comfort during surgery
- Temporary teeth provided the day of surgery, so you never leave without a smile
- Follow-up visits and adjustments during the healing and refinement phase
- Final zirconia teeth, not acrylic, and confirmation of when they will be delivered
- In-house lab involvement, which can improve quality, speed, and accountability
- Warranty or long-term support for implants and prosthetic teeth
Some practices advertise a low initial price but charge separately for items such as extractions, sedation, temporary teeth, lab fees, or the final zirconia bridge. Others may label temporary teeth as “final,” which can be misleading.
10. What Material Is the Final Prosthesis Made with the All-on-4® Treatment?
The material used for your final All-on-4® prosthesis is one of the most critical factors in determining the strength, longevity, comfort, and appearance of your new smile.
Patients should ask whether the final teeth are made from full-contour zirconia or acrylic.
- Zirconia is considered the gold standard for full-arch dental implant restorations. It is strong, highly wear-resistant, stain-resistant, and designed to last many years. Zirconia teeth also offer a natural, lifelike appearance and excellent long-term stability.
- Acrylic teeth, while often used for temporary restorations, are more prone to chipping, wear, staining, and fracture over time.
Some dental centers advertise a lower price but include acrylic teeth as the “final” prosthesis, which may require replacement sooner and result in additional costs later.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, our All-on-4® treatment plans are designed to deliver custom-crafted zirconia teeth as the final prosthesis -providing patients with a durable, beautiful, and long-lasting smile they can rely on.
11. How Many Appointments Are Required for All-on-4® Dental Implants?
At Aria Dental Implant Center, our advanced digital workflow and in-house dental laboratory allow us to complete the All-on-4® process efficiently, without unnecessary appointments.
Most patients can receive their final zirconia teeth in approximately 14 days, and the entire treatment can require as few as four visits from start to finish, depending on individual needs.
Our streamlined approach is designed to:
- Minimize the number of appointments
- Reduce time spent in the dental chair
- Deliver exceptional results as quickly and comfortably as possible.
We understand your time is valuable. That’s why at Aria, we focus on efficient scheduling, precise planning, and high-quality outcomes so that you can spend less time in our office and more time enjoying your new smile.
12. What Is the Warranty for the Dental Implants and Prosthesis With All-on-4® Treatment?
Warranties in All-on-4® treatment can be confusing and in some cases, misleading. Patients should ask detailed questions about what is actually covered, what is not, and what costs may still apply if an issue occurs.
You may see some implant centers advertise a “lifetime warranty.” In most cases, this warranty only applies to the prosthetic teeth, not the dental implants themselves. This can easily confuse patients into thinking everything is covered for life, when that is rarely the case.
It’s also important to understand that:
- A warranty does not typically cover anesthesia, surgical fees, or clinical time
- If a prosthesis needs to be remade, patients may still be responsible for associated costs
- If an implant were to fail, replacement may involve additional procedures and fees
Regarding the prosthetic teeth themselves, zirconia restorations are extremely strong and durable. With proper care, maintenance, and routine follow-up, zirconia full-arch prostheses are designed to last many years. Fracture rates are very low when the case is properly planned, designed, and maintained.
Because of this, “lifetime warranties” are often more marketing-driven than clinically meaningful. They sound reassuring, but in reality, the likelihood of a zirconia prosthesis fracturing is low and the warranty often does not eliminate real-world costs if treatment is needed.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we believe in transparent, honest conversations about longevity, maintenance, and responsibility. Rather than relying on marketing terms, we focus on:
- Using high-quality implant systems
- Designing durable zirconia prostheses
- Proper bite planning and long-term maintenance
- Clear explanations of what is and is not covered
Our goal is to help patients make informed decisions, without confusion, fine print, or unrealistic promises.
Understanding warranties helps you protect your investment and avoid surprises down the road.
13. What Is “Gimmick Dentistry” When It Comes to Dental Implant Centers?
“Gimmick dentistry” refers to marketing-driven implant treatment that focuses on eye-catching promises and low advertised prices, rather than transparency, clinical necessity, and long-term patient care.
In some markets including Phoenix, patients may see billboards or ads promoting very low prices for All-on-4® or All-on-X treatment. While these offers can be appealing, the advertised price often does not reflect the full cost of care.
Common examples of gimmick dentistry include:
- Low advertised pricing that excludes essential components such as anesthesia, extractions, temporary teeth, or final zirconia restorations
- Upselling additional implants or procedures that may not be clinically necessary
- Advertising “final teeth” immediately after surgery without explaining the need for revisions or long-term durability
- High doctor and staff turnover, leading to inconsistent care and lack of continuity
- Limiting appointments or follow-up care primarily to control overhead and profit margins, rather than focusing on patient outcomes
Patients may also experience rushed consultations or pressure to make quick financial decisions without fully understanding the treatment plan.
Because All-on-4® treatment is a significant medical and financial investment, patients should always:
- Ask for a clear, written breakdown of what is included in the treatment plan
- Confirm whether anesthesia, lab fees, revisions, and final prosthetic teeth are included
- Ask who will be responsible for care long-term
- Research the implant center’s reputation by reading Google reviews and checking the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
At Aria Dental Implant Center, patients deserve honest recommendations, transparent pricing, and continuity of care. Our focus is on clinically appropriate treatment, efficient scheduling that respects your time, and long-term success, not marketing gimmicks.
Understanding the difference between quality care and gimmick dentistry can help protect both your health and your investment.
14. What Foods Can I Eat During the Healing Phase of All-on-4®—and After I Receive My Final Zirconia Teeth?
Your diet plays a vital role in the success of your All-on-4® treatment, especially during the healing phase. Knowing what to eat (and when) helps protect your implants and ensures proper integration.
During the Healing Phase (With Temporary Teeth)
Immediately after surgery, patients will have 3D-printed temporary teeth, but the implants underneath are still healing. During this phase, it’s important to avoid excessive biting forces.
Recommended foods include:
- Smoothies and protein shakes
- Yogurt, pudding, and applesauce
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft pasta
- Soups (not hot)
- Soft fish
Foods to avoid during healing:
- Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods
- Tough meats
- Nuts, chips, and raw vegetables
- Sticky foods like gum or caramel
Following these guidelines helps protect the implants while they stabilize and prevents unnecessary stress on the temporary teeth.
After Final Zirconia Teeth Are Placed
Once you receive your final zirconia prosthesis, you can enjoy a much broader and more normal diet. Zirconia is extremely strong and designed to handle everyday chewing forces.
Most patients can comfortably eat:
- Steak and other meats
- Fruits and vegetables
- Bread and sandwiches
- Most everyday foods
While zirconia is very durable, we still recommend:
- Avoiding using your teeth to open packages
- Being cautious with extremely hard foods like ice or hard candy
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we guide you through each phase of healing so you know exactly how to protect your investment and enjoy your new smile with confidence.
Proper care, maintenance, and dietary awareness help ensure long-term success with All-on-4® dental implants.
15. What Maintenance and Hygiene Are Required for All-on-4® Dental Implants?
All-on-4® dental implants are designed to be long-lasting, but like natural teeth, they require consistent daily care and professional maintenance to stay healthy and function properly.
Daily At-Home Care
Patients with All-on-4® implants should maintain a thorough daily hygiene routine, which typically includes:
- Brushing at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush
- Cleaning under the prosthesis with floss threaders, implant floss, or a water flosser
- Using non-abrasive toothpaste to protect the zirconia surface
- Rinsing with an antibacterial or implant-safe mouth rinse, if recommended
Keeping the implant-supported gums clean helps prevent inflammation and supports long-term implant health.
Professional Maintenance
Even though the teeth are implant-supported, professional care is still essential:
- Routine hygiene visits, typically every 3–6 months depending on individual needs
- Professional cleanings designed specifically for implant restorations
- Periodic X-rays and evaluations to monitor implant health and bone levels
- Occasional removal of the prosthesis by the dentist for deep cleaning and inspection, when indicated
Long-Term Success
With proper hygiene, routine maintenance, and regular follow-up visits, All-on-4® implants and zirconia prostheses can last many years. Poor oral hygiene, missed maintenance visits, or ignoring inflammation can increase the risk of complications over time.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we provide detailed hygiene instructions, ongoing support, and customized maintenance plans to help protect your investment and ensure long-term success.
Understanding maintenance requirements before treatment helps patients make informed, confident decisions about their care.
16. What Are the Fees for All-on-4® Maintenance and Can I Use My Insurance or My Own Dentist?
Maintenance after All-on-4® treatment is an integral part of long-term success. At Aria Dental Implant Center we want you to know what to expect—both in terms of care and cost.
Fees can vary based on:
- How often visits are needed (each patient is different)
- Whether you require only hygiene or a deeper implant-specific cleaning
- Any additional services (such as scans, polishing, or adjustments)
Typical maintenance fees range from standard hygiene visit rates up to implant-specific cleaning fees. Because pricing can vary with insurance coverage and individual needs, we’ll always provide a precise estimate before care.
Insurance and Using Your Own Dentist
- Dental Insurance: Some plans may cover parts of routine hygiene visits or evaluations, but most dental implant maintenance is considered a specialized procedure and may not be fully covered. Coverage varies widely by plan. Our team can help you understand what your insurance may cover and assist in filing claims.
- Using Your Own Dentist: You may choose to have maintenance with your own family dentist if they are comfortable and experienced with implant care. However:
- Not all general dentists are trained in implant-specific hygiene protocols
- Routine exams with your own dentist do not replace implant-specific professional maintenance
- If your dentist removes your prosthesis for hygiene, they must be trained and equipped for implant restorations
- Not all general dentists are trained in implant-specific hygiene protocols
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we provide implant-specific maintenance and hygiene care with trained specialists who understand how to clean around implants and prostheses safely and thoroughly.
17. Why Should Patients Be Cautious When Choosing “Discount” Dental Implant Centers?
Choosing a dental implant center based solely on a discounted price can lead to limited options, unexpected costs, and inconsistent care. While lower pricing may seem appealing at first, patients should understand what is often sacrificed to achieve those prices.
At many discount implant centers:
- Customization is limited. Patients may have fewer choices when it comes to tooth shape, size, fit, and shade. If a patient is unhappy and requests changes, those requests may be discouraged or denied due to the cost of additional chair time and lab work.
- Revisions may be minimized. Because profit margins are low, some centers cannot afford multiple adjustments or refinements, even when they would improve comfort or aesthetics.
- Bait-and-switch tactics may be used. Patients are drawn in by low advertised pricing, only to learn later that essential components such as anesthesia, temporary teeth, revisions, or zirconia restorations are not included.
- High staff and doctor turnover is common. Patients may not see the same dentist at each visit, which can impact continuity of care and accountability.
- Production-focused scheduling may prioritize volume over individualized treatment planning.
All-on-4® treatment is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Achieving a comfortable bite, natural appearance, and long-term success requires time, experience, and attention to detail.
At Aria Dental Implant Center, we believe patients deserve:
- Consistent care with an experienced, dedicated clinical team
- Transparent treatment plans without pricing surprises
- A focus on long-term outcomes—not short-term discounts
When making a significant medical and financial investment, patients should look beyond the price tag and consider experience, customization, continuity of care, and transparency.
Choosing the right implant center can make all the difference in both your results and your overall experience.
Locally owned center offering affordable dental implant
Aria Dental Implant Center offers great financial incentives and works with all types of lenders to make sure dream smiles are achievable by all. Schedule a free consult to find out more: