All on Four and All on Six Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you have failing, ailing, or even no teeth at all, the All-on-Four or All-on-Six treatments, which use four or six implants to provide a stable foundation for full arch restoration, may well be something you require to get you back on track and start eating and smiling with confidence again.

What are All-on-Four and All-on-Six dental implants?

Teeth in a day is a dental procedure designed to provide patients with a full set of teeth in a single day, using only four dental implants to support a fixed bridge or denture. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who have lost most or all of their natural teeth and are seeking a comprehensive solution. All-on-Six is similar but uses six instead of four dental implants. Both procedures involve the use of an implant supported fixed prosthesis to provide a stable and permanent solution for replacement teeth. This technique is typically used for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth and desire a quick and effective solution for tooth replacement. Patients often start by researching dental implants, including options like All-on-Four and All-on-Six, to find the best procedure for their needs. All-on-Six provides a stronger and more stable base for the prosthetic dental arch, ensuring better mechanics of biting and chewing, and a more even distribution of pressure to prolong the life of the prosthetic arch.

Benefits of All-On-Four and All-on-Six treatment

Now that we’ve discussed the criteria for smile in a day, let’s look at why this procedure is becoming increasingly popular.‍

Immediate Results: All-on-Four dental implants provide immediate functionality, allowing patients to leave the dental office with a fully restored smile on the same day as the procedure. Temporary teeth are provided on the same day as the surgery to ensure immediate aesthetics and functionality.

Fewer Implants Required: Traditional dental implant procedures may require a larger number of implants to support a full arch of teeth. With All-on-Four, only four implants are needed per arch, reducing the overall treatment time and complexity of the procedure.

Minimally Invasive: All-on-Four dental implant placement is often less invasive than traditional implant procedures, as it typically eliminates the need for bone grafting surgery. The implants are strategically placed in areas of the jawbone with the highest bone density, maximising stability and reducing the risk of complications.

Stability and Durability: The strategic placement of the implants and the secure attachment of the prosthetic teeth result in a stable and durable restoration. The success of All-on-Four dental implants is largely due to the process of osseointegration, where the implants fuse with the jawbone to provide a stable and durable foundation. All-on-Four dental implants provide reliable support for chewing, speaking, and smiling, allowing patients to enjoy a comfortable and functional bite.

Improved Aesthetics and Confidence: All-on-Four dental implants are custom-made to look and feel like natural teeth, restoring the appearance of a full smile. This can significantly enhance confidence and self-esteem, allowing patients to smile and socialise with ease.

Preservation of Jawbone Structure: By replacing missing teeth with dental implants, All-on-Four help preserve the jawbone structure and prevent bone loss. This can have long-term benefits for oral health and facial aesthetics, maintaining a youthful and vibrant appearance.

Ease of Maintenance: All-on-Four dental implants are easy to care for and maintain. Patients can simply brush and floss their prosthetic teeth as they would with natural teeth, along with regular dental check-ups and cleaning to ensure optimal oral health.

Patients that recommend Zental for same day teeth procedure

Abdul Hakim had a difficult experience with the dentist at a young age. His experience altered his confidence and wellbeing in adulthood. As a consequence, he became fearful of visiting the dentist. He eventually found the courage to visit Zental when his oral health deteriorated, and he required a prosthetic dental arch to restore his smile. Abdul Hakim met with the team led by Dr Ihsaan Al-Hadad and embarked on Teeth in a Day treatment. Full mouth rehabilitation using four or six dental implants is highly complex and can only be conducted by a few, highly trained oral surgeons in the UK. Abdul Hakim shares his brave story and explains why he continues to Trust in Calm with Zental.

Process for having All-On-Four and All-on-Six treatment

Although All-on-Four or All-on-Six dental implants are often referred to as smile in a day or teeth in a day, this describes the surgical implementation and temporary bridge placement stage. In fact, the process requires several visits and a dedicated commitment to achieve the best possible result. The final outcome is a dental prosthesis that provides a functional and aesthetic replacement for missing teeth.

The process typically includes the following stages:

Consultation

A detailed consultation with a highly qualified and skilled UK trained, oral surgeon to discuss your aspirations and needs. Understanding the various dental procedures involved is crucial for patients to make informed decisions about their treatment. Researching dental implants, including options like all-on-four and all-on-six, is an important part of this initial phase. At Zental, we train our oral surgeons to meet the highest standards and maintain their skills in keeping with the latest innovations. During the consultation, a detailed treatment plan will be developed to address your specific needs and goals.

Diagnostic scan and detailed treatment planning

At Zental, we use cutting edge imaging tools to make our dental implant planning more precise and effective. At Zental, we use cutting-edge 3D imaging tools to make our dental implant planning more precise and effective. You will be presented with a tailored treatment plan that will include a transparent cost breakdown and comprehensive information about your treatment as well as financing options if required.

Surgical Implantation and temporary teeth placement

All-on-Four dental implants work well with four implants if there is a lack of space or minimal bone available. This procedure can address issues with upper teeth, especially in cases where the patient has lost or has problems with their upper teeth, using implant retained bridges for stability. However, we may use up to six implants to provide greater stability and longevity, especially for implant retained bridges of 10 to 12 teeth. Using six implants can provide a stronger and more stable base for the prosthetic dental arch, considering the mechanics of biting and chewing, as well as the distribution of pressure. Once the dental implants are placed, the temporary bridgework is inserted.

Final Fitting

Following a healing process that may last between 12-16 weeks, the final bridge is ready to be placed. This process may include refining the fit and aesthetics of the bridge and teeth. The final fitting ensures that the prosthetic teeth are comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Follow-up

At Zental, we always recommend regular reviews to ensure the investment you have made in your oral wellbeing is maintained for as long as possible. Your oral surgeon will provide you with a detailed aftercare plan, including follow-up appointments and guidance for oral hygiene. This is also supported by lifestyle as well as nutritional information.

Longevity of All-On-Four and All-on-Six dental implants

The longevity of All-on-Four or All-on-Six dental implants can vary depending on various factors, including the patient’s oral hygiene practices, overall health, lifestyle habits, and the quality of the implant materials used. However, with proper care and maintenance, All-on-Four dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth loss. On average, All-on-Four dental implants can last for 10 to 20 years or even longer with appropriate care. Some patients may experience even greater longevity, while others may require maintenance or replacement sooner due to factors such as wear, damage, or changes in oral health. Here are some key factors that can influence the lifespan of All-on-Four dental implants:

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of dental implants. Patients should brush and floss their prosthetic teeth regularly and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and other oral health issues that can compromise implant stability.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking and tobacco use can negatively impact the success of dental implant surgery and the long-term stability of implants. Patients who smoke may have a higher risk of implant complications and may experience implant failure sooner than non-smokers.

Systemic Health Conditions: Certain systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders, can affect the body’s ability to heal and may increase the risk of implant complications. Patients with these conditions may require closer monitoring and may have a shorter lifespan for their implants.

Bone Health: Adequate bone density and quality are essential for the success of dental implants. The distribution of stresses in the surrounding bone tissue and the biomechanical behavior of bone tissue under functional forces are critical factors in determining the longevity of the implants. Patients with compromised bone structure may be at higher risk of implant failure or complications. Bone loss over time can also affect the stability and longevity of implants.

Implant Maintenance: Regular maintenance and follow-up care are important for monitoring the condition of All-on-Four dental implants over time. Dental providers may recommend periodic adjustments, repairs, or replacement of the prosthetic teeth or implant components as needed to ensure optimal function and longevity.

Overall, while All-on-Four dental implants are designed to be a durable and long-lasting solution for tooth loss, individual experiences may vary. At Zental. we work closely with you to develop a bespoke treatment plan and follow-up care regimen to maximise the lifespan of your dental implants and maintain a healthy, functional smile for years to come.

Alternatives to All-On-Four and All-on-Six dental implants

While All-on-Four and All-on-Six dental implants offer comprehensive solutions for missing teeth, they may not be suitable for every patient. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to consider, each with its own benefits and limitations. Here are some alternatives to All-on-Four and All-on-Six dental implants:

Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants involve the placement of individual implants to replace missing teeth. This option is suitable for patients who have sufficient bone density and require replacement of multiple missing teeth in different areas of the mouth. Traditional implants offer excellent stability, functionality, and longevity, but they may require more extensive surgery and a longer treatment time compared to All-on-Four or All-on-Six implants. Traditional dental implants involve the placement of individual implants to replace missing teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures combine the stability of dental implants with the convenience of removable dentures. This option involves attaching a removable denture to dental implants, providing increased stability and preventing slippage or movement. Implant-supported dentures may be suitable for patients who prefer the flexibility of removable prosthetics or have concerns about the cost or invasiveness of full-mouth implant solutions.

Fixed Bridge Supported by Implants

A fixed bridge supported by implants involves attaching a dental bridge to implants placed in the jawbone. This option is suitable for patients who have adjacent teeth in good condition and prefer a fixed restoration that does not require removable prosthetics. An implant bridge provides a permanent solution for patients, restoring smiles and preserving jaw structure while withstanding biting and chewing forces. Fixed bridges offer excellent stability and aesthetics but may require the preparation of adjacent teeth to accommodate the bridge. A fixed bridge supported by implants involves attaching a dental bridge to implants placed in the jawbone.

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures are removable prosthetics that replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics. While they do not provide the same level of stability as implant-supported options, they are often more affordable and less invasive. Traditional dentures may be suitable for patients who are not candidates for dental implants or prefer a non-surgical solution for tooth replacement. Traditional dentures are removable prosthetics that replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics.

When considering alternatives to teeth in a day, it’s essential to consult with a qualified dental professional to assess your individual needs, preferences, and oral health status. Together, you can determine the most suitable treatment option to restore your smile and improve your quality of life. At Zental, we also offer the full spectrum of alternative treatments to All-on-Four and All-on-Six dental implants.

Meet our award winning clinical team at Zental

Our dental implant clinical team are lead by Dr Ihsaan Al-Hadad, a leading UK Surgeon with degrees in both Dentistry and Medicine. He has vast exposure to both the hospital and dental practice environments, looking after patients with complicated medical needs. He has a special interest in oral surgery, sedation and complex aesthetic implant rehabilitation on nervous patients. He started his implant training at the Prestigious Charles Clifford Hospital in Sheffield and subsequently attended numerous advanced implant training courses both in the UK and abroad. He is highly proficient in the field of All on four, full mouth dental implant rehabilitation where treatment involves a fixed bridge held by implants all done on the same day. His team treats over 100 cases a year. Ihsaan enjoys teaching, which particularly shows in his interaction with patients. He has held several posts including The Royal London dental Hospital training students in sedation as well as being a mentor for NHS England training dentists in improving their practice in oral surgery. He also acts as a mentor for many dental surgeons who wish to embark on the exciting field of Implant Dentistry offering them one-to-one and small group training and live surgery. He has lectured in the UK as well as internationally and has published several articles and research in prestigious medical, dental and surgical journals.

Learn more about All on Four or All on Six Dental Implants, book a consultation online.

Smile in Day Treatment Challenges

Cost: While All-on-Four dental implants can be more cost-effective than traditional implant-supported restorations requiring more implants, they still represent a significant financial investment. The initial cost may be prohibitive for some patients, especially as implant treatments is not comprehensively covered by dental insurance companies in the UK.

Surgical Complexity: Smile in a day surgery is a complex procedure that requires precise planning and execution. It involves oral surgery to place the implants, which can be intimidating for some patients. Additionally, there may be risks associated with anesthesia and post-operative discomfort.

Risk of Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks of complications with All-on-4 dental implants, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and implant failure. While these risks are relatively low, they should be considered when deciding on treatment.

Requirement for Adequate Bone Density: All-on-Four dental implants rely on the existing bone structure for support. Patients with insufficient bone density may require bone grafting procedures before implant placement, adding complexity and cost to the treatment.

Limited Adjustability: Once the prosthetic teeth are attached to the four or six dental implants, they are fixed in place and cannot be easily adjusted. This means that any changes in bite alignment or aesthetic preferences may be challenging to accommodate without significant intervention.

Maintenance Challenges: While All-on-Four and All-on-Six dental implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they require proper maintenance and regular dental check-ups to ensure their longevity. Some patients may find it challenging to clean around the implants and prosthetic teeth, increasing the risk of oral health problems.

Aesthetic Limitations: While All-on-Four dental implants aim to provide a natural-looking smile, some patients may be dissatisfied with the aesthetic appearance of the prosthetic teeth. Factors such as color, shape, and size may not fully match the patient’s natural teeth or desired aesthetic outcome.

Non-Removability: Unlike removable dentures, All-on-Four dental implants are fixed in place and cannot be removed by the patient. While this offers stability and security, some individuals may prefer the option of removing their dentures for cleaning or comfort.

Potential for Sinus Complications: In the upper jaw, the implants used in the same day teeth procedure may extend into the sinus cavity. This can increase the risk of sinus complications such as sinusitis or sinus perforation, particularly if the sinus floor is thin or compromised.

Long-Term Maintenance and Replacement: While All-on-Four dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth loss, the prosthetic teeth and implant components may require maintenance or replacement over time due to wear, damage, or complications. This can incur additional costs and inconvenience for patients.

You oral surgeon will discuss these potential disadvantages with you and help you weigh them against the benefits of the treatment. By understanding the risks and limitations, you can make informed decisions about your oral health and tooth replacement options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while not everyone will meet the criteria for same day teeth immediately, there are often steps that can be taken to make this life-changing procedure, a reality for many individuals suffering from tooth loss. If you are considering teeth in a day treatment, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional who can evaluate your suitability for this procedure and guide you through the process. Remember, a healthy smile is not just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial component of overall health and well-being, including oral health. At Zental, we take a holistic approach to your smile and can offer smile in a day treatment or an alternative solution depending on your needs.

Visit our All on Four and and All on Six treatment pages to learn more.