All-on-6 vs. All-on-4 Implants: Understanding the Differences

CLINICAL CONTENT REVIEWED BY

Kalmar Implant Dentistry

Last Modified: Sept. 6, 2024

You may have lost your teeth. Now you may want something better than dentures. In that case, you can go for an all-on-4 or all-on-6 implants. Both options are good. But there are a few things that you have to consider before selecting the option.

All-on-4 and All-on-6: A Brief Explanation

Both All on 4 implants and All-on-6 give you a full set of teeth. The basic difference between the two is that All-on-4 uses four dental fixtures. Whereas all-on-6 uses six. They hold permanent prosthetic teeth in place.

These dentures stay fixed in your mouth and look like real teeth. Whether you're missing one tooth, several teeth, or all of them, you can go with any of the 2 procedures.

All-on-4 and All-on-6: Which one is the Best?

This comparison is based on various key aspects. A few major ones are described below. Have a look:

1. Number of Implants:

• All-on-4: It uses 4 implants positioned at an angle.
• All-on-6: In this, 6 implants are placed straight.

2. Stability:

All on 6 implantsare stronger. They are more stable because it has 2 extra implants. This procedure sometimes requires bone grafting. While All-on-4 is less likely to need this.

3. Placement of Implants:

• All-on-4: Has 2 vertical implants in the front. It has 2 angled implants in the back.
• All-on-6: Uses 6 straight implants. This might be better if your bone density is low.

4. Best for Jaw:

• All-on-6: It is better for the upper jaw due to its strong support.
• All on 4 implants: Thismight be a better option for the lower jaw. It can also be used if there isn't enough bone for 6 fixtures.

5. Cost and Cleaning:

All-on-6 is more expensive than All-on-4.

• This is because it has two extra implants.
• Also, it might need bone grafting.

It is harder to clean All-on-6 because it has more posts to brush between.

6. Treatment Time:

All-on-4 needs fewer surgeries. Hence, it is the less time-consuming procedure as compared to All-on-6.

What do They Have in Common?

1. What They Do?

They are used to replace missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Also, they keep false teeth securely in place.

2. How They Work?

Both methods use implants to hold fixed dentures. The implant needs time to attach to the jaw. You get a temporary denture while you wait.

Choosing the Right Option for You

To find out if All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants are best for you, your dentist will consider:

• The shape and size of your mouth
• Your bite type
• The stability of your jawbone
• The angle of your natural teeth
• Your budget is also important. Many dentists offer payment plans. They may also help you find financing options for dental procedures.

The cost of both these procedures depends on:

• How many teeth need to be replaced?
• The type of materials used for the implants
• Whether you need extra procedures

Know The Procedure

1. Pre-Surgery Check-Up

• Bone and Gum Health:The dentist checks your bone and gums.
• Health Review: They review your overall health.
• X-rays and CBCT: These scans help plan the placement of the fixtures.

2. Surgery and Healing

• Implant Placement: Titanium posts are placed in your jawbone.
• Healing: A healing period follows, during which you may use temporary teeth.

3. Final Impressions:

Once healed, final impressions are taken for your permanent teeth.

4. Getting Your Final Smile

Prosthesis Options that you can choose from are:

• screw-retained porcelain crowns
• zirconia crowns
• hybrid prostheses

5. Final Attachment:

The final teeth are fixed in place.

6. Care:

With good care, your new teeth can last a lifetime. They can improve your chewing and comfort.

Pros of Both Procedures

Here are the advantages of All-On-6 and All-On-4 implants:

1. Better Appearance: They help improve your smile. Both make you look more natural.

2. Jawbone Health: They help keep your jawbone strong.

3. Facial Structure: They stop your face from changing shape over time.

4. Comfortable Teeth: The new teeth feel and work like real ones.

5. Chewing and Comfort: They make eating easier and more comfortable.

They really enhance your overall look. But to maintain its shine or finish, you have to clean it properly by regular brushing and flossing.

Things to Think About

Even with these benefits, there are some things to consider:

• All-On-4 can be less expensive than other methods. But it still requires a significant investment.
• It might be tricky to clean the multiple porcelain caps in the All-On-4 system, especially when flossing.

Is The Cost of These Procedures Worth It?

All-on-6 usually costs more because they use two extra implants. If you need bone the cost can go up more. Both All-on-6 and All-on-4 are good long-term investments for your dental health.

• Cost and Insurance

Think about how much the procedure will cost. Check what your insurance will pay. Some insurance plans might cover part of the procedure. Basic insurance plans usually don’t cover dental processes. But better plans may cover the cost.

• Value Over Time

These procedures might cost more at first. But they last a long time. This can make them a better deal over the years. Both types help improve your quality of life.

Final Words

We have seen the pros and cons of both processes. Your dentist after a proper examination can tell which is the best option for you.

Visit Kalmar Implant Dentistry to get the best dental implant treatment. We are known for our expertise in different types of procedures. You can connect with our team for consultation. In case you are visiting from another country then also we can assist. Call us now for more details.