🦷 What Is the All-on-4 Dental Implant Technique?

All-on-4 literally means “all teeth on four implants.”
It’s a method for replacing an entire upper or lower arch of missing teeth using only four dental implants, instead of one implant per missing tooth.

These implants act as anchors for a fixed full-arch prosthesis, giving patients stable, natural-looking teeth without the need for removable dentures.

🔬 How It Works

• Four implants are placed in each jaw:

  • Two at the front where bone density is highest.

  • Two angled implants (usually 30–45°) at the back to avoid anatomical structures (like sinuses or nerves) and make use of available bone.

• A temporary fixed bridge is often attached on the same day (immediate loading).

• After 3–6 months, once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, a permanent prosthesis (final bridge) is installed.

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👥 Who Is It For?

All-on-4 is ideal for:

• People who have lost most or all teeth in one or both jaws.

• Patients with bone loss in the back of the jaw who want to avoid bone grafting.

• Individuals seeking a fixed, long-term solution rather than removable dentures.

Not suitable for:

• Those with untreated gum disease, severe systemic diseases (like uncontrolled diabetes), or insufficient bone density without grafting.

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✅ Advantages

• Fewer implants → less invasive and faster surgery.

• Immediate results → fixed teeth often placed the same day.

• No removable dentures → improved comfort, confidence, and chewing ability.

• Avoids major bone grafting in many cases.

• Natural aesthetics and better facial support compared to traditional dentures.

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⚠️ Disadvantages & Risks

• Higher cost than removable dentures.

• Risk of implant failure, infection, or poor osseointegration (bone bonding).

• If one implant fails, the entire bridge may be affected.

• Proper hygiene and maintenance are crucial for long-term success.

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💰 Cost & Timeline

Timeline:

• Surgery: 2–4 hours.

• Temporary bridge: same day or next day.

• Healing period: 3–6 months.

• Final bridge placement: after healing.