In short
- 01Four implants per jawA full-arch fixed prosthesis is supported by four implants rather than one per tooth.
- 02Titanium implantsThe implants are titanium screws that are placed in the jawbone and integrate with the bone.
- 03Temporary, then permanentA temporary prosthesis is fitted first, followed by the permanent one once healing is complete.
All-on-4 is a fixed prosthesis supported by four implants per jaw. It replaces a full arch of missing teeth with a result that looks and functions like natural teeth, and it is used mainly in hybrid prosthesis treatment, particularly for the upper jaw.
When is All-on-4 used?
All-on-4 is offered to people with significant tooth loss who need a full-arch replacement rather than individual crowns or bridges. It is most often used for the upper jaw as part of hybrid prosthesis treatment.
How is All-on-4 performed?
Treatment starts with an examination of your oral health and jawbone structure, which the dentist uses to plan where the implants will go. Your general health is also taken into account at this stage.
In the surgical stage, four titanium implants are placed in the jawbone. A temporary prosthesis is fitted straight after surgery so you can continue your daily life while the implants heal, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the implants have fused with the jawbone and healing is complete, the permanent prosthesis is fixed onto them.
Advantages of All-on-4
- A fixed result with an appearance close to natural teeth.
- A treatment option in some cases of jawbone insufficiency, since it uses four implants rather than one per missing tooth.
Aftercare
- Eat soft, easy foods such as soup, purée and yoghurt for the first few days. This reduces pressure on the healing implant sites and eases discomfort.
- Avoid smoking, since it slows healing and increases the risk of infection. Limit alcohol for the same reason.
- Keep up regular oral care: brushing, flossing and an antiseptic mouthwash protect the gum around the new teeth. Use the products your dentist recommends.
- Attend the follow-up check-ups your dentist schedules, as these support the long-term success of the implants.
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results can vary from person to person.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the success rate of All-on-4 implants?
All-on-4 implants have a high success rate, and outcomes have improved as materials and techniques have developed.
How is All-on-4 different from dentures?
All-on-4 is a fixed prosthesis attached directly to implants in the jawbone, rather than a removable device that rests on the gum. Because it is anchored to the bone, it feels and functions closer to natural teeth.
How many implants are placed in the upper jaw?
All-on-4 itself uses four implants. People with no remaining teeth are sometimes offered a different procedure instead, which generally needs between four and eight implants in the upper jaw, though this varies from case to case.
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