All-on-4 vs All-on-6 Dental Implants: Which One Should You Choose?

Losing multiple teeth can have a big impact on your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are great long-term alternatives for replacing lost teeth, offering a more permanent solution than dentures.

All-on-4 uses four strategically placed implants in the jawbone to support the arch of teeth, making it a good choice for patients with limited bone density or significant tooth loss. On the other hand, All-on-6 uses six implants for added strength and stability, making it ideal for those with stronger bone density or who need extra support for their new teeth.

The choice between All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants depends on your bone density and support needs. Understanding the difference between All-on-4 and All-on-6 will help you decide which is the best fit for your situation. This blog will help you decide whether All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants are the right option for restoring your smile.

What Is All-On-4 and All-On-6 Dental Implant?

The all-on-4 implants are placed in the jaw, two at the front and two at the back. They are utilised to retain an entire set of teeth. This is ideal for individuals with insufficient bone to support additional implants.

All-on-6 employs six implants for added strength and stability. It’s a wonderful option for individuals with healthy bones. It’s also a perfect option for individuals who require additional support for their new teeth.

Both provide fixed teeth, but All-on-6 is stronger and offers additional support. Your decision hinges on bone condition, number of teeth, and individual preferences.

All-On-4 Vs All-On-6: A Simple Breakdown

Implants Used
All-on-4 implants utilise four implants in the jaw to hold a complete set of teeth. It is thus a suitable option for one who requires replacing a few teeth using fewer implants. All-on-6 implants utilize six implants for more strength and stability. It is best suited for those who require more stability, particularly with more bone loss.
Bone Strength Needed
All-on-4 is appropriate for individuals with regular bone density in the jaw. It supports some loss of bone with fewer implants without grafting. All-on-6 is appropriate for individuals with reduced bone density or individuals who need additional support for stable implants. The additional two implants offer additional strength in case the bone is not healthy enough.
Stability
All-on-4 gives a stable denture with four implants. It could be less stable for individuals who have a powerful bite or considerable bone loss. All-on-6 is more stable, particularly for individuals who require additional support in biting and chewing. The two additional implants stabilise the prosthesis even under greater pressure.
Procedure Time
All-on-4 implants take a little less time because fewer implants are required. This entails a shorter procedure and quicker recovery. All-on-6 implants take a bit longer because there are two extra implants. This can also mean extra steps to create a strong base. So, the treatment time can be slightly longer, but it gives greater security in the long term.
Cost
The All-on-4 implants are cheaper than the All-on-6 implants. Because less implant is required, it is less expensive and a more affordable choice for many individuals. The All-on-6 implants are a bit higher because there is more to be used and additional surgery. The additional cost may be worthwhile for patients who need additional stability and support.

How Do You Know If All-On-4 or All-On-6 Implants Is Right for You?

All-on-4 would be best for you if you have sufficient bone density and don’t want to spend time and money on a lengthy treatment. It employs four implants for the complete denture so that you heal in no time. For partial bone loss, All-on-4 conserves bone grafts.

All-on-6 is perfect for those with lower bone density or needing extra support. Using six implants, All-on-6 offers greater stability, ideal for those with bone loss or a stronger bite. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, more durable solution, All-on-6 could be the better option for you.

Difference Between All-On-4 and All-On-6 Implants: Choice Factor

Bone Density
All-on-4 is best for normal bone density. All-on-6 is best for less bone density or more bone loss.
Bone Loss Amount
If you experience a lot of bone loss, All-on-6 provides added strength and stability.
Needs for Support
If you require more strength or stability, All-on-6 provides more with two additional implants.
Cost
All-on-4 is less expensive because it takes fewer implants and has a less complicated procedure.
Treatment Time
All-on-4 tends to be quicker, fewer implants mean less surgery and quicker recovery.
Bite Force
With a stronger bite, All-on-6 can provide added support to stand up better to that strength.
Long-Term Durability
More implants on All-on-6 equal added long-term durability and stability.
Personal Preference
If you would like additional support or would prefer more implants, All-on-6 might be the solution.

The All-On-4 and All-On-6 Implant Treatments

Consultation and Inspection
Both treatments begin with a consultation in which the dentist reviews your oral health, bone mass, and general implantability. X-rays or scans are carried out to chart where the implants will be placed.
Treatment Plan
On the basis of inspection, an individualised treatment plan is prepared which details the number of implants (4 or 6), quality of restoration (crown, bridge, or denture), and timeframe.
Tooth Extraction (if necessary)
Any decayed or broken teeth, if they need to be extracted, will be extracted to provide space for the implants. The site where the tooth has been extracted heals before continuing with the implants.
Implant placement
For All-on-4, four implants are inserted into the jawbone (two in the front and two at the back) to hold a complete set of teeth. For All-on-6, six implants are inserted to provide extra strength and stability. Both procedures are performed under local anaesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free during surgery.
Healing and Osseointegration
After the implants are placed, your jawbone will need time to heal and bond with the implants, a process known as osseointegration. This can take 3 to 6 months. During this period, the implants become securely attached to the bone.
Abutment Placement
Once the osseointegration process is finished, abutments (small connectors) are fixed onto the implants to attach the new teeth. A minor surgery can be necessary to reveal the implants and seat the abutments.
Placement of the Final Restoration
Once the gums have healed, custom crowns, bridges, or dentures are cemented or attached to the abutments, and your smile is fully restored. For All-on-4, there will be four implants to support the entire set of teeth, yet All-on-6 offers additional support through six implants.
Follow-up Visits
Follow-up visits after the surgery are made to ensure that all is healing well. Our dentist will examine the implants and see if there is any infection or complication. Both of them are long-term, stable solutions, and All-on-6 provides extra support where it is most needed.

For How Long All-On-4 or All-On-6 Implants Lasts?

All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants, if properly cared for, last long. They last for 10 to 15 years on average and longer in other instances. The implants are made of hard and long-lasting titanium. Oral hygiene, cleanliness, and post-surgery care determine the lifespan of the implants. Check-ups and cleaning by maintenance make implants healthy.

Advantages of All-On-4 Vs All-On-6 Dental Implants

All-on-4 Dental Implants

Less Implants Employed
Four implants are employed, which is less invasive than multiple implant employment.
Less Costly
All-on-4 implants tend to be less expensive than All-on-6 as fewer implants are required and the procedure is less complex.
Faster Healing
Because fewer implants are employed, healing is typically shorter.
No Bone Grafting Required
All-on-4 can accommodate those with high bone loss without requiring bone grafting.
Permanent Solution
Offers a permanent and sturdy solution to missing teeth, which is both functional and cosmetic.

All-on-6 Dental Implants

Greater Stability
Six implants provide greater stability, which is best for individuals who have less bone density or greater bite force.
Good for Severe Bone Loss
This presents a solution for individuals who might require added support due to severe bone loss.
Longer Lasting
More implants yield more strength and can result in a longer-lasting outcome.
Greater Bite Force
More implants provide more support and strength, leading to a stronger chewing ability.
Stable Prosthesis
With six implants, the prosthesis is retained tighter, removing any chance of movement or discomfort.

Conclusion

Both All-on-6 and All-on-4 implants are excellent to use for tooth replacement. The only difference between all-on-4 and all-on-6, all-on-6 has additional stability using more implants. The decision will be based on your individual needs, such as bone quality, support, and budget. Sydney Dental Implant Centre dentists will assist you in deciding the best solution for your smile. They will take you through the process to achieve long-term, natural results.

Authors Detail

Dr. Manish Shah

BDS, MBBS, MMED (Sleep Medicine)

Dr. Manish Shah is a dentist and doctor with over 15 years of experience in general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. He graduated with honours in Dentistry (BDS) from the University of Sydney in 1998. In 2005, he completed his degree in Medicine (MBBS) at the same university. He also holds a Masters in Sleep Medicine.

Dr. Manish shah specializes in craniofacial pain, sleep disorders, and dental implants. He uses his combined medical and dental expertise to provide complete care at Sydney Dental Implant Centre.

Suburbs we help in Sydney for Dental Implants: Pyrmont, Potts Point, Darlinghurst, Kirribilli, Surry Hills, Paddington, Balmain, Rozelle, Redfern, Double Bay, Newtown, Lilyfield, North Sydney, and surrounding areas.