Eat, laugh and smile with confidence with All-on-4 implants
William H. Smythe DMD in Louisville offers All-on-4 dental implants — a full arch of permanent, fixed teeth supported by just four titanium implants, placed and loaded with a provisional bridge in a single day. Dr. William H. Smythe IV uses CBCT 3D imaging to map bone volume and nerve position before surgery, so patients from Louisville, across Louisville and Jefferson County, KY can avoid bone grafting in most cases and go home with same-day teeth. Whether you have failing teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or advanced bone loss, All-on-4 restores chewing strength, facial structure, and confidence. Schedule your consultation or call (502) 448-2876 to see if you are a candidate.
The All-on-4 dental implant technique, also referred to as full arch implants, comprises four titanium posts strategically implanted along the arch of the jaw and connected to a denture plate. Its primary goal is to replace a complete arch of teeth, restoring the functionality of your bite and the aesthetic of your smile.
This method is an exceptional solution for missing teeth that entails a minor two-hour surgery per arch. The All-on-4 system eliminates the necessity for bone grafts to support the implant as the dentist can position the posts in the most compact part of the jaw. It reduces chair time and recovery time as the whole process, from post insertion to denture fitting, is accomplished in one session, allowing you to leave with a brand new smile on the same day.
Curious about All-on-4 dental implants? This innovative dental implant technique utilizes small titanium screws that fuse to your jawbone, replacing the root of a missing tooth. While traditional implants require one for each missing tooth, All-on-4 streamlines the process by using just four implants to support a full set of upper or lower teeth. Unlike the traditional method that may require bone grafting and sinus augmentation, All-on-4 only needs two implants angled at 45 degrees, avoiding areas of low bone density while maintaining strength. Say hello to a new smile without the hassle, thanks to All-on-4.
If you’re wondering whether full mouth implants are a viable option for your dental concerns, the answer is yes! Here are some common situations where we may recommend this treatment:
If you’re tired of concealing your smile and seeking information about the available options, our William H. Smythe DMD is here to assist you. We can conduct an implant assessment, during which we can evaluate your individual requirements and potential treatment results.
At William H. Smythe DMD, the All-on-4 protocol is used to bypass complex bone grafting in the vast majority of cases. By angling the two posterior implants forward, they are anchored in the denser anterior jawbone — where the bone holds up best over time — and sinuses and nerves are avoided without additional surgery.
Long-term success of All-on-4 depends on proper planning and maintenance. CBCT 3D imaging is used for every case to map bone and nerves before the first incision, and a maintenance schedule is built with every patient to protect the investment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. William H. Smythe IV, DMD · University of Louisville School of Dentistry, 1996 · Kentucky dental license #3628 · William H. Smythe DMD, 5141 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40216 · same location since 1973.
Four strategically placed implants — including two angled posteriorly — support an entire arch of teeth, reducing cost and surgical complexity.
In most cases, patients leave their appointment with a provisional arch of teeth attached the same day implants are placed.
Implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, preventing the bone resorption that causes facial collapse with dentures.
All-on-4 teeth are anchored securely — no adhesives, no removal at night, no slipping. They function and feel like your own natural teeth.
All-on-4 restores up to 90% of natural bite force, allowing patients to comfortably eat the foods they love without restriction.
Here is how All-on-4 compares to the two most common alternatives for replacing a full arch of teeth. Dr. William H. Smythe IV reviews all three options with every candidate during consultation at William H. Smythe DMD.
| Feature | All-on-4 | Traditional Dentures | Individual Implants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of implants | 4 per arch | 0 | 8–12 per arch |
| Removable | No, fixed | Yes, daily | No, fixed |
| Bone graft needed | Rarely | No | Often yes |
| Bite strength restored | Up to 90% | 20–30% | Up to 95% |
| Prevents bone loss | Yes | No — accelerates it | Yes |
| Same-day teeth | Usually yes | Yes | No — months of healing |
| Longevity | 20–25+ years | 5–7 years (relines needed) | 25+ years |
All-on-4 Dental Implants is a good fit if you are:
This may not be the right option if:
Here is exactly what happens at your appointment at William H. Smythe DMD. Knowing each step makes the experience far less intimidating — and lets you relax knowing what comes next.
These are the questions patients at William H. Smythe DMD ask most often before committing to treatment. Dr. William H. Smythe IV addresses each one honestly at your consultation.
"All-on-4 is too expensive"
All-on-4 is a long-term investment that typically costs less than replacing multiple failing teeth one at a time. We provide a personalized quote after CBCT planning and offer financing so you can spread the investment over time.
"I'm scared of the surgery"
All-on-4 is performed under local anesthesia with optional sedation — most patients describe the experience as far less intense than they expected. Recovery is typically 2–3 days off work, and you leave the same day with teeth.
"I've had dentures fail before — how is this different?"
Traditional dentures rest on the gums and slip. All-on-4 is anchored to four titanium implants fused to the jawbone — the bite force is dramatically stronger, bone loss is prevented, and there's no adhesive or slipping.
Every procedure has tradeoffs, and transparent conversation about them is part of informed consent. Dr. William H. Smythe IV reviews these at your consultation and answers every question before treatment begins.
After each meal, use dental floss to clean under the bridge. You can also use a water pick and/or non-alcoholic antibacterial mouthwash mixed with water. It is recommended to brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush like Oral B or Sonicare. Additionally, don’t forget to brush your tongue and the inside of your cheeks to eliminate bacteria and bad breath.
No, it is not necessary. The procedure can be carried out with the use of either a local anesthetic or “sleep dentistry.”
With sleep dentistry, hospitalization is not required, and the procedure can be completed at our practice.
Yes. William H. Smythe DMD in Louisville offers All-on-4 dental implants to patients from Louisville, across Louisville and Jefferson County, KY. Schedule a consultation or call (502) 448-2876.
All-on-4 cost depends on the material of the final bridge (acrylic, composite, or zirconia), whether extractions are needed, and whether sedation is used. We provide a personalized quote after a consultation and CBCT scan at William H. Smythe DMD, and we offer financing options so patients can spread the investment over time.
As with any surgical procedure, All-on-4 carries some risk. Possible complications include post-surgical infection, implant failure (rare, typically from bone not fully integrating), nerve irritation, sinus involvement, and bone loss around an implant (peri-implantitis) if oral hygiene is neglected. Dr. William H. Smythe IV reviews your full medical history and CBCT imaging before surgery to minimize these risks.
Most patients return to work within 2–3 days. Soft foods are recommended for the first 6–8 weeks while the implants fully integrate with the jawbone (osseointegration). The final permanent bridge is typically placed 3–4 months after surgery, once healing is complete. Dr. William H. Smythe IV will guide you through every step.
Cost depends on the number of teeth involved, materials selected, and whether bone grafting or other adjunctive procedures are needed. Larger cases typically run into the mid-to-high four figures or beyond. We provide a detailed written estimate after your consultation.
Insurance: we accept most insurance plans and file claims on your behalf, so you do not have to chase reimbursement. We verify benefits before treatment and explain what is covered.
Payment options: Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover, cash, and CareCredit financing — which lets patients spread treatment cost across monthly payments.
Larger cases are planned in stages so you always know what to expect at each visit. Treatment is performed under local anesthesia and we pace the work to keep you comfortable. If dental anxiety is part of your history, tell us at the consultation — we will walk through every step in advance and discuss any sedation considerations specific to your medical history.
William H. Smythe DMD has cared for Louisville families from the same Dixie Highway location since 1973. The office is on Dixie Highway in South End Louisville, with easy access from the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and I-64 — making the drive in from Shively, Pleasure Ridge Park, Valley Station, Iroquois Park, Auburndale, Beechmont, Fairdale, the South End, and across Jefferson County straightforward.
Our practice is family-friendly and accessible — free on-site parking, a wheelchair ramp, and an elevator to our second-floor office at Suite 202. Office hours are Monday through Wednesday 9 AM to 4 PM, Thursday 9 AM to 2 PM, and Friday 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. To schedule, request an appointment online or call (502) 448-2876.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All-on-4 is a surgical procedure and carries risks including infection, implant failure, nerve irritation, and bone loss. Candidacy depends on overall health, bone volume, and oral condition as evaluated by a dentist. Consult Dr. William H. Smythe IV or a qualified dental professional regarding any questions about your oral health. Individual results may vary.
Contact our office to discuss how this treatment can help you achieve your dental health goals.