All-on-4 & All-on-6

Achieve a new and beautiful smile with strategically placed implants for unparalleled stability

January 26, 2024
Image showing a graphic example of the procedureA rock-shape shadow for the background.A rock shaped shadow for the background.

What is an All-on-4 / All-on-6?


All-on-4 Dental Implants:

All-on-4 is an innovative dental implant technique designed to address significant tooth loss by utilizing four specialized strategically angled dental implants in each upper or lower jaw arch, providing optimal support for a fixed full-arch prosthesis. This procedure typically involves precise implant placement, allowing for the attachment of a prosthetic that consists of 10-14 dental crowns or a hybrid denture. In certain cases, extractions, bone grafts, or denture conversions may be incorporated into the treatment plan. All-on-4 is known for its efficiency, affordability, and ability to offer a faster full-arch restoration compared to alternative methods.

All-on-6 Dental Implants:

Similarly, All-on-6 dental implants follow a comparable approach but involve the placement of six dental implants per jaw arch. This method aims to enhance stability and support for the fixed full-arch prosthesis. The additional implants distributed strategically across the arch contribute to increased load-bearing capacity and may be recommended in cases where extra support is deemed necessary. All-on-6 is chosen based on individual oral health needs, jawbone structure, and the desired outcome, offering a reliable and effective solution for patients dealing with extensive tooth loss. Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 procedures aim to provide patients with a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and permanent teeth replacement solution.

How does the treatment process look like for an All-on-4 or All-on-6?

Initial Consultation:
  • Evaluation of oral health and assessment of candidacy for the procedure.
  • Discussion of patient goals and expectations.
  • X-rays and impressions may be taken for detailed planning.
Preparation and Surgery:
  • Extractions, if needed, are performed to remove remaining failing teeth.
  • Bone grafts or sinus lifts may be conducted if additional support is required.
  • Placement of four (All-on-4) or six (All-on-6) specialized dental implants in each jaw arch.
  • Implants are strategically angled for optimal support and stability.
Healing Period:
  • The initial healing phase, which may take 1-4 months, allows the implants to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration).
  • Temporary prosthetic teeth are usually provided during this period.
Prosthetic Phase:
  • Placement of abutments on the implants, which serve as connectors between the implants and the prosthetic teeth.
  • Impression is taken to create a custom-fit permanent full-arch prosthesis.
  • Attachment of the fixed or removable prosthetic teeth once the healing process is complete.
Follow-up Visits:
  • Periodic follow-up visits to monitor healing progress and ensure optimal results.
  • Adjustments or modifications may be made as needed.

How long does the process take?

  • Surgical Implant Placement: The surgical procedure to place the implants typically takes about 1 hour per implant.
  • Healing Time: The healing process varies from patient to patient but generally spans 2-6 months for osseointegration.
  • Complete Treatment Duration: The entire All-on-4 or All-on-6 dental implant process may take up to several months, depending on factors such as healing time, prosthesis fabrication, and individual treatment plans.

What are extractions?

Extractions refer to the dental procedure of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone.

What is a Bone graft?

A bone graft is a surgical procedure to add more bone volume in areas needing augmentation. During the process, additional bone material is placed in the jaw to boost density and promote bone regeneration. Bone can be harvested from elsewhere in the patient's body using bone grafting materials. This extra bone volume helps provide stability and support for dental implants or other restorations. Bone grafts allow for optimal implant placement and integration with the existing bone.

Who is a candidate for an All-on-4 or All-on-6?

Patients missing most or all teeth in an upper or lower jaw arch may benefit from All-on-4 implants. Ideal candidates include:

  • Those with failing teeth requiring multiple extractions
  • Patients using uncomfortable conventional dentures
  • Individuals with adequate jawbone to place four implants per arch
  • People desiring a permanent teeth replacement solution

Additional Considerations:

  • Patient Comfort: Local anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience during extractions and implant placement.
  • Customization: Prosthetic teeth are custom-designed to match the patient's natural bite and appearance.
  • Long-Term Benefits: All-on-4 and All-on-6 procedures provide a permanent and durable solution for improved oral function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Explore our Blog for in-depth articles addressing the most frequently asked questions about these popular procedures:

Meet our Dentists

Dr. Joaquín Berrón

Dr. Joaquín Berrón

Specialty:
Prosthodontics, Implantology
location
Cancun, Mexico

Dental implant specialist in Cancun, Mexico, with 30+ years of experience

Excellent
Very Good
good

97

Dr. Andrés Peñalva

Dr. Andrés Peñalva

Specialty:
Periodontics
location
Mexico City, Mexico

Periodontics specialist in Mexico City, with 15+ years of experience

Excellent
Very Good
good

94

Dr. Victor Esponda

Dr. Victor Esponda

Specialty:
Prosthodontics, Implantology
location
Guadalajara, Mexico

Prosthodontics & Implantology specialist with over 16 years of experience. He was trained in Rochester, NY and the University of Texas, San Antonio, TX.

Excellent
Very Good
good

94

Dr. Bernardo Bogarin

Dr. Bernardo Bogarin

Specialty:
Periodontics, Implantology
location
Tijuana, Mexico

Periodontology and Implantology specialist in Tijuana, Mexico, with 20+ years of experience and over 5,000 implant surgeries performed.

Excellent
Very Good
good

94

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