Who may be suitable?
All-on-4 may be considered for patients who have lost most or all teeth in one arch, or whose remaining teeth have a poor prognosis. A full assessment is required before deciding whether teeth should be removed or whether some can be preserved.
Assessment includes
- Three-dimensional bone evaluation
- Gum and infection status
- Smile, speech and lip support
- Bite forces and available restorative space
Risk factors include
- Uncontrolled medical conditions
- Heavy smoking
- Inability to maintain hygiene
- Severe grinding or unsuitable bone conditions
What is the usual timeline?
Temporary vs permanent teeth
The first fixed teeth are frequently provisional. They help protect the healing implants and allow assessment of appearance, bite and speech. The final bridge is created after the clinician confirms healing and tissue stability. Patients should ask exactly which restoration is included at every stage.
All-on-4 vs All-on-6 vs individual implants
The number of implants is not a simple quality score. All-on-6 may offer additional support in some anatomy, while four well-positioned implants may be appropriate in others. Individual implants and bridges can preserve separate segments but may require more bone and components. Planning should begin with the final restoration rather than a fixed implant number.
What determines All-on-4 cost?
- One arch or both arches
- Extractions and bone procedures
- Temporary and final bridge materials
- Sedation or hospital requirements, when appropriate
- Laboratory stages and number of visits
- Maintenance components and future servicing
Eating, cleaning and maintenance
A modified diet is commonly advised during early healing. Full-arch bridges require daily cleaning underneath using the recommended brushes, floss or water-assisted tools. Professional reviews remain essential because implants can develop inflammation even when the bridge feels stable.
Frequently asked questions
Does All-on-4 mean permanent teeth in one day?
It may allow fixed temporary teeth on the day of surgery in suitable cases. The final bridge is commonly completed after healing.
Is bone grafting avoided in every case?
No. Angled implant placement may reduce grafting needs in some patients, but anatomy and restorative goals determine the plan.
Can an All-on-4 bridge be removed?
It is fixed for the patient but can be removed by a dental professional for servicing when required.
What happens if one implant fails?
Management depends on timing, implant position and bridge design. Ask the clinic to explain contingency and aftercare arrangements before treatment.
Request a full-arch assessment
A personalised plan should explain tooth prognosis, implant number, provisional teeth, final materials and follow-up.
Discuss your case