What is All-on-4?
A complete arch of teeth fixed onto four implants, two of them angled to use the strongest bone. All-on-6 uses six implants. Both give you fixed teeth that do not come out, unlike a denture.
How is the plan made?
Everything starts with a 3D scan. The doctor decides how many implants you need and where, and the plan shows the shape of your new smile before surgery.
Why does it take two trips?
The temporary arch lets the implants heal without heavy load. After three to six months the final, stronger arch is made and fitted. Rushing this step increases the risk of problems later.
Who is All-on-4 for?
People who have lost most or all of the teeth in one jaw, or whose remaining teeth cannot be kept, and who would like fixed teeth instead of a denture. It is also an option for people who already wear a denture and find it loose or uncomfortable.
You need enough bone for four or six implants, sometimes placed at an angle, and general health that allows minor surgery under local anaesthetic. The 3D scan and your health history decide this; the doctor explains the result before anything is booked.
All-on-4 or All-on-6?
Four implants are often enough to carry a full arch, especially when the back two are angled to reach stronger bone and avoid a graft. Six implants spread the chewing load over more points, which can suit a strong bite or a larger jaw. Neither is better in general; the choice depends on your bone, bite and the plan for the final teeth.
What are the final teeth made of?
Usually zirconia, which is strong enough to carry the force of a whole jaw. At the front it is often layered with porcelain so the teeth look natural, with slight differences in shape and colour. The temporary arch you wear between the trips is made of a lighter material and is designed to be replaced.
What are the possible risks and side effects?
Most people have swelling and discomfort for several days after surgery, managed with ordinary painkillers. Possible issues include:
- Swelling, bruising and some bleeding in the first week
- Infection, treated with care and sometimes antibiotics
- An implant that does not bond with the bone; with four or six implants, the plan is adjusted before the final arch is made
- A chip or crack in the temporary arch, which is common and simple to repair
- A short period of adjusting to speaking and eating with the new teeth
- Over the years, inflammation around the implants if cleaning under the bridge is poor, or with heavy smoking
Health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or recent radiotherapy to the jaw need to be discussed first. Sedation is available if you are anxious about the surgery.
What affects the price of All-on-4?
The number of implants, any extractions, bone grafting if needed, the temporary arch, the material of the final arch, and both trips. Your written quote names each item, including what is included on the second trip. Our guide on All-on-4 or dentures explains how fixed teeth compare with a denture in cost and day-to-day life.
How long does an All-on-4 arch last?
With good cleaning and an annual professional clean, the implants commonly last many years. The final arch may need repairs or eventually remaking over time, as with any dental work under daily load. Not smoking and cleaning under the bridge every day make the biggest difference.
Who works on your full arch?
One doctor plans the treatment on your 3D scan, places the implants and sees you on both trips. Our ceramist designs and makes the final arch in the lab next to the clinic, and you check its shape and shade together at the try-in before it is fixed.
How do you prepare for implant day?
Bring the list of medication you take, and tell the doctor about blood thinners, diabetes medication or anything you take for bone health; some need adjusting before surgery, and only your own doctor should change them. Eat a normal breakfast unless you are having sedation, in which case you receive written instructions.
Plan a quiet few days after surgery: soft food, no smoking, no alcohol, and no hot sun or heavy exercise. Your coordinator stays in touch on WhatsApp, and the doctor checks healing before the temporary arch is fitted and again before you fly home.
What can you eat in the first weeks?
Soft food at first: soups, yoghurt, eggs, pasta, fish and well-cooked vegetables. The temporary arch is fixed, but the implants are still healing, so avoid hard, crunchy or very chewy food until the doctor tells you it is fine. Most people return to a normal diet gradually after the final arch is fitted.