All on 4 Procedure: Are There Risks?

Leila asks:
Are there any long term risks or repercussions when having the all-on-four (all-on-4) procedure? Is this procedure suitable for people with a compromised immune system. I am currently on Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis, should I be concerned?

Answered by: Jason Diamond, DDS & MD

Ridgewood, NJ

Hi Leila,

The long term risks for All-on-4 are similar as those for any implant based dental reconstruction. Likewise for the benefits!

People, like yourself, on immunosuppressive drugs do have a higher chance of having implants fail because of the way drugs like methotrexate affect bone metabolism and your immune system.

Risk would be increased further if you were also on steroid therapy and further still if you were taking any bisphosphonates (i.e. Fosomax) for osteoporosis because of the increased risk for "bisphosphonate related jaw necrosis" when all these drugs are combined.

I would certainly recommend you seek out a implant surgeon who is familiar with these topics and have him or her discuss all these things with you and perhaps your medical doctor as well.

Please feel free to call our offices at (888) 721-1903 to learn more about your options. We are a worldwide leader in the All-on-4 technique.