If you have multiple missing or severely damaged teeth, full-arch implant treatment may be one option considered after dental assessment. All-on-4 and All-on-6 are two approaches that use multiple dental implants to support a full-arch prosthetic restoration.
At Radiant Smiles Dental Bundoora, both All-on-4 and All-on-6 implant treatment may be considered for suitable patients. This guide explains the differences between the two approaches, including implant number, bone requirements, treatment process and other factors that may affect suitability.
What Are All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants are full-arch implant treatment approaches that use multiple implants to support a prosthetic dental arch.
All-on-4 Dental Implants
The All-on-4 approach uses four implants to support a full-arch prosthetic restoration. Implant position and angulation are planned according to the available bone and other clinical factors. Bone grafting requirements vary between patients.
All-on-6 Dental Implants
The All-on-6 approach uses six implants to support a full-arch prosthetic restoration. Whether six implants are appropriate depends on factors such as available bone, implant position, bite forces and the proposed restoration.
Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6 Implants
All-on-4 and All-on-6 differ primarily in the number of implants used and in other treatment-planning considerations such as available bone, implant distribution and prosthetic design.
Number of Implants
- All-on-4 uses four implants to support a full-arch restoration.
- All-on-6 uses six implants, with suitability depending on bone availability, implant distribution and the planned prosthetic restoration.
Bone Density and Support
- For All-on-4 treatment, implant position and available bone are assessed before treatment planning. Some patients may still require bone grafting or another preparatory procedure depending on their anatomy and clinical needs.
- All-on-6 may be considered where sufficient bone is available for six implants and the proposed implant distribution is clinically appropriate. Bite forces, bone condition and prosthetic design are among the factors considered during planning.
Longevity and Clinical Factors
The longevity of either treatment varies between patients and depends on factors such as implant health, bone and gum condition, bite forces, prosthetic design, smoking, oral hygiene and ongoing maintenance. The number of implants alone does not determine how long treatment will last.
The All-on-4 Procedure: What to Expect
The Treatment Process
During All-on-4 treatment, four implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. In selected cases, a temporary prosthetic restoration may be fitted on the same day, depending on implant stability and other clinical factors.
The procedure typically includes:
- Initial consultation to determine suitability
- Implant placement performed using the anaesthetic approach considered appropriate for the individual patient
- A temporary restoration may be placed during the healing phase where immediate loading is clinically appropriate
Recovery Time
Healing time varies according to factors such as implant stability, bone condition, the surgical procedure and individual healing response. Where a temporary restoration is fitted during the healing period, it does not mean osseointegration is complete.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Following the procedure, the dental team will provide aftercare instructions. Follow-up appointments allow the dentist to monitor the implants, surrounding tissues and healing progress.
The All-on-6 Procedure: What to Expect
The Treatment Process
In All-on-6 treatment, six implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a full-arch prosthetic restoration. Treatment time, implant distribution and prosthetic design vary according to the individual plan. The procedure typically includes:
- Initial consultation to assess bone structure and overall suitability for All-on-6
- Implant placement, typically performed under local anaesthesia, which may take a bit longer due to the extra implants
- A temporary restoration may be used during the healing phase where clinically appropriate
- Final prosthetic teeth placed after full integration of implants with the jawbone
Recovery Time
Healing and osseointegration take time and vary between patients. The number of implants alone does not determine comfort, recovery or treatment outcome.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Follow-up appointments allow the dental team to monitor healing, implant health and surrounding tissues. Patients will also receive oral hygiene instructions appropriate for the prosthetic restoration.
What Factors Affect Suitability for All-on-4 or All-on-6?
Suitability for All-on-4 or All-on-6 depends on factors such as bone availability, gum health, implant position, bite forces, medical history and prosthetic requirements.
Factors That May Be Considered for All-on-4
Factors considered may include:
- Available bone volume and distribution
- Position of anatomical structures
- Number and location of implants that can be placed
- Bite and prosthetic requirements
- Overall dental and medical suitability
Factors That May Be Considered for All-on-6
Factors considered may include:
- Whether sufficient bone is available for six implants
- Implant distribution and proposed prosthetic design
- Bite forces and tooth wear
- Gum health and surrounding anatomy
- Overall dental and medical suitability
How a Dentist Determines Which Full-Arch Approach May Be Suitable
Choosing between All-on-4 and All-on-6 requires assessment of the available bone, gum condition, bite, prosthetic requirements and other individual factors. Each approach has different indications, limitations and risks that should be discussed before treatment.
At Radiant Smiles Dental Bundoora, Dr. Chandni Passi and the dental team can assess whether All-on-4, All-on-6 or another treatment approach may be appropriate based on the clinical findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants covered by insurance?
Private health insurance benefits for implant treatment vary between policies. Patients should check their individual cover directly with their insurer before treatment. - Are there any dietary restrictions after receiving All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants?
Dietary recommendations after implant surgery vary according to the procedure and type of temporary or final restoration. Follow the individual instructions provided by your dental team. - Can All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants be placed immediately after tooth extraction?
Implant placement at the time of extraction and immediate loading are separate clinical decisions and may be possible in selected cases. Suitability depends on factors such as bone condition, implant stability, infection, bite and the planned restoration. - How long do All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants last?
Longevity varies between patients and depends on factors such as implant health, bone and gum condition, bite forces, prosthetic design, smoking, oral hygiene and ongoing maintenance.
