How All-on-4 Works
The general concept — used across implant dentistry, not specific to any one provider — typically places two implants more upright toward the front of the jaw and two angled implants further back. This positioning is intended to make use of the bone that's most reliably available in the jaw. A complete arch of replacement teeth is then supported by these four implants, generally as a fixed restoration rather than one the patient removes themselves.
Who Might Consider All-on-4
All-on-4 is generally considered by patients who are missing all or most of the teeth in one arch, where an assessment determines that four implants would provide adequate support. This page describes the technique; it does not determine whether it applies to you.
All-on-4 Compared with All-on-6
The core difference is implant count: All-on-4 uses four implants, All-on-6 uses six. Using two additional implants can spread the load across more points, which is sometimes considered where an assessment suggests it would help for a particular patient's bone structure or bite. Neither technique is presented as generally better here — see All-on-6 for the equivalent detail on that approach.
All-on-4 Compared with Implant-Supported Dentures
All-on-4 generally results in a fixed restoration, maintained differently from a denture-based design. Some implant-supported dentures are designed to remain removable by the patient. Which of these fits your own priorities and clinical situation, if either, is an assessment question — see Implant-Supported Dentures for more on that approach.
Assessment and Planning Considerations
All-on-4 planning involves a clinical examination and imaging to assess bone availability at the four proposed implant positions, your bite, and your general oral health. The use of four implants does not, by itself, establish suitability or remove the possible need for preparatory treatment.
What to Expect in General Terms
Treatment generally follows a staged process — assessment and planning, implant placement, a period of integration, and fitting of the final restoration. Some patients receive a temporary restoration at an earlier stage than others, but this is an individual planning decision and isn't stated as standard here; the exact timing and number of visits are confirmed as part of your own plan.
Considerations and Limitations
All-on-4 is often designed with the aim of making efficient use of the bone that's available, but this doesn't mean bone grafting is never relevant — whether it applies to you depends on assessment (see Bone Grafting). As with any implant treatment, outcomes and healing vary between individuals, and general surgical considerations apply.
Looking After an All-on-4 Restoration
A fixed full-arch restoration needs a specific cleaning routine, generally different from cleaning individual teeth, alongside regular dental check-ups. Specific guidance is part of your own treatment plan.
Related Options
For the broader picture of full-arch options, see Full Mouth Dental Implants. For the alternative implant count, see All-on-6. For a denture-based alternative, see Implant-Supported Dentures.
General information only — every treatment decision follows an individual clinical assessment.