Losing teeth can greatly affect your quality of life. It impacts how you feel about yourself, affects your overall health, and can lead to bone loss. If you’re missing most or all of your teeth, dental implants can help restore your smile.
All-on-4 and All-on-6 are two popular options for full-arch restorations. Both use a set number of implants to hold a full arch of teeth, giving you a permanent solution.
Choosing between All-on-4 and All-on-6 depends on factors like bone structure, dental needs, and personal goals. Let’s discuss both options so that you can make an informed decision with your dentist at Hanna Dental Implant Center.
Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants
While both All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants offer permanent solutions for replacing missing teeth, they have some key differences. The main difference is the number of implants used to support the new teeth.
Features | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
Number of implants | Four implants are used. | Six implants are used. |
Stability | Offers good stability. | Provides enhanced stability for cases where two extra implants are needed. |
Durability | Highly durable. | Highly durable. |
Surgery and recovery | Similar procedure, similar recovery time | Similar procedure, an extra 2 implants inserted |
Cost | $16, 000- $23, 000 | $16, 000- $23, 000 |
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants are a method used to replace a full arch of teeth. In this procedure, four dental implants are placed in the jawbone. These implants act as anchors for a set of fixed new teeth. The placement of the implants is carefully planned to provide the most support, even if some areas of the jaw have lost bone density.
This option is often recommended for people who have lost most or all of their teeth. It can also help if you don’t have enough bone for traditional implants, as it often avoids the need for bone grafting. All-on-4 is a less invasive option, with a shorter surgery time and faster recovery compared to individual implants for each missing tooth.
One of the main benefits is that it provides a full set of permanent new teeth that look and function like natural teeth. You don’t have to worry about removable dentures or adhesives. The implants stay in place and can help improve your ability to eat and speak comfortably.
What Are All-on-6 Dental Implants?
All-on-6 dental implants use six implants to support a full arch of new teeth. These implants are placed in the jawbone to create a strong foundation for your new teeth. The extra two implants offer additional stability and support, especially for people with higher bite pressure or those who want more durability.
All-on-6 is often recommended for people who have lost most or all of their teeth and have enough bone density to support six implants. While the procedure is similar to All-on-4, the extra implants can distribute pressure more evenly across the arch. This can provide more comfort and longevity for your new teeth if your situation requires it.
One of the main benefits of All-on-6 is that it offers a stable and long-lasting solution. Your new teeth will feel secure, and you’ll be able to eat and speak without worrying about them shifting. Like All-on-4, this option avoids the need for removable dentures and provides a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth.
Candidates for All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 Dental Implants
Choosing between All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants depends on your dental needs and bone structure. Both options offer strong and permanent solutions for full-arch restorations. However, certain factors can make one option more suitable than the other.
All-on-4 Ideal Candidates
All-on-4 is a great option for people who:
- Have lost most or all of their teeth.
- Have limited bone density in their jaw and want to avoid bone grafting.
- Are looking for a faster, less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time.
- Want a cost-effective solution that still provides stable and functional new teeth.
All-on-6 Ideal Candidates
All-on-6 is better suited for people who:
- Have lost all of their teeth and have enough bone to support six implants.
- Need extra stability and durability, especially if they have a strong bite force.
- Want a long-term solution with a more even distribution of pressure across their new teeth.
- Are willing to undergo a slightly longer procedure and recovery for added stability.
The Implant Placement Process at Hanna Dental Implant Center
All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants involve a carefully planned process to ensure your new teeth are securely attached and function properly. The placement process for both options follows a similar series of steps.
Initial Consultation and Evaluation
During your first visit, our experienced dental implant specialist, Dr. Hanna, will perform a thorough evaluation of your mouth. This includes taking X-rays, digital scans, and sometimes 3D imaging to assess your bone density and determine whether you are a candidate for dental implants.
Dr. Hanna will also discuss your medical history, dental needs, and expectations for the procedure. If you’re suitable for the treatment, a customized treatment plan is created based on your unique situation. If you’re not currently suitable after the evaluation, additional procedures or other cosmetic solutions will be discussed with you.
Preparation for Surgery
Before the surgery, Dr. Hanna will ensure that your gums and bones are healthy enough for the implants. If there is an infection or other dental issues, these may need to be treated first. In cases of insufficient bone density, bone grafting will be required, but for All-on-4, this is often not necessary due to the strategic placement of the implants. You will also receive instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including fasting before the procedure if sedation is being used.
The Implant Surgery
On the day of surgery, sedation is used to make you comfortable. Dr. Hanna will begin by making small incisions in the gums to expose the jawbone. For All-on-4, four implants are strategically placed—two at the front and two at the back, often at an angle to maximize support. For All-on-6, six implants are used for even more stability. Once the implants are placed into the jawbone, the gums are stitched up, and the surgery takes less than four hours to complete.
Placement of Temporary New Teeth
After the implants are placed, a set of either permanent or temporary new teeth is attached to the implants on the same day. These temporary teeth allow you to function normally while the implants heal and fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration). The new teeth will look natural and allow you to eat soft foods and speak with ease.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
After surgery, there will be some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding, which is normal, so you do not need to worry. Dr. Hanna will provide pain relief and detailed post-surgery care instructions, including how to clean your mouth, what foods to avoid, and how to manage discomfort. It’s essential to follow these instructions closely to ensure proper healing. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities after a few days, but you’ll need to stick to a soft food diet for a while to avoid putting too much pressure on the implants.
Follow-up and Placement of Permanent New Teeth
After 3-6 months of healing, when the implants have fully integrated with your jawbone, you’ll return to the clinic for the final stage. During this appointment, your temporary new teeth are replaced with a permanent set. These permanent teeth are custom-made to fit your mouth, ensuring a natural appearance and comfortable fit. Once in place, your permanent new teeth will feel and function just like your natural teeth, allowing you to confidently eat, speak, and smile.
Foods to Eat and Avoid During Recovery
After your All-on-4 or all-on-6 implant surgery, choosing the right foods is important for a smooth recovery. Soft foods help protect the healing implants, while hard or sticky foods can damage them or cause discomfort.
Foods to Eat
Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods that won’t put pressure on your implants. These include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies
- Soup (avoid chunky)
- Pudding
- Cottage cheese
- Oatmeal
- Soft pasta (no crunchy toppings)
- Steamed vegetables (well-cooked)
- Soft fish (like salmon)
- Rice
- Bananas
- Avocado
- Tofu
- Cream of wheat
- Soft pancakes
- Pureed vegetables
- Ice cream (without nuts or hard toppings)
Foods to Avoid
Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods that irritate the surgical area or damage the implants.
- Nuts
- Chips
- Popcorn
- Hard candy
- Tough meat (like steak)
- Raw vegetables
- Hard bread or crusty rolls
- Granola
- Seeds
- Crackers
- Caramel
- Gum
- Hard cookies
- Ice cubes
- Corn on the cob
- Sticky rice or sushi
- Jerky
- Bagels
- Pizza crust
- Crunchy cereal
Let Dr. Hanna Help You Choose the Right Implant Option for Your Needs
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants provide excellent solutions for replacing missing teeth. The right choice depends on your needs, bone structure, and long-term goals.
At Hanna Dental Implant Center, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional care that reduces the risk of complications and ensures the best possible outcomes for our patients. Choosing the right dental professional is not just about skill; it’s about finding someone who understands your unique needs and whom you can trust.
We are here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Contact us now to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, All-on-4 or All-on-6?
There is no definitive answer as to which is better, All-on-4 or All-on-6 because it depends on your individual dental needs. All-on-4 uses four implants, making it a less invasive and more cost-effective option. All-on-6 provides extra stability and support with six implants, ideal for those with higher bite pressure or who want added durability. Consult your dental professional to determine which option is best for you.
What are the cons of All-on-6 dental implants?
While All-on-6 offers more stability and support, it can come with a few drawbacks:
- Higher cost due to more implants.
- Slightly longer surgery and recovery time.
- It may not be suitable for those with significant bone loss unless bone grafting is done.
- Some patients may find the procedure more invasive due to the additional implants.
How long do All-on-6 implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, All-on-6 implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like smoking can help ensure their longevity. While the implants themselves are highly durable, the attached new teeth may need replacement every 10-15 years, depending on wear and tear.