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All-on-4 is a full-arch implant treatment in which four implants support a fixed replacement arch for one jaw. It is intended for complete replacement of teeth in an upper or lower jaw; it is not a four-tooth replacement and it is not normally the option for a single missing tooth.

A suitable plan depends on the condition of the teeth and gums, the available jawbone, your bite, medical history and the restoration being planned. A consultation and imaging are needed before deciding whether All-on-4, another full-arch option or a different implant treatment is appropriate.

What does All-on-4 mean?

In an All-on-4 plan, four implants are placed in one jaw to support a fixed bridge. Two implants are placed in the front region and two at the back are angled according to the treatment plan. The bridge is secured to the implants, so it is not intended to be removed by the patient for daily cleaning like a conventional removable denture.

The final design, materials and cleaning instructions are individual. Before treatment, ask how the bridge will be cleaned, how your bite will be checked and what follow-up is recommended for your planned restoration.

All-on-4, a single implant or All-on-6?

Single-tooth implant

A single-tooth implant replaces one missing tooth and generally supports one crown. It is different from full-arch treatment. Learn about the broader range of dental implant options before assuming that a full-arch solution is needed.

All-on-4

All-on-4 uses four implants to support a complete replacement arch for one jaw. Whether four implants can support the planned restoration is a clinical planning question, informed by anatomy, bone, gum condition and bite.

All-on-6

All-on-6 uses six implants to support a complete replacement arch. The number of implants alone does not determine the right treatment. The team should explain the available options and why a particular approach is being considered for your case. Read more about All-on-6 dental implants.

How is an All-on-4 plan prepared?

  1. Assessment and records: The teeth, gums and jawbone are assessed. Tomography and radiographic measurements can help plan implant positions and evaluate bone.
  2. Case-specific planning: The plan should set out the jaw being treated, implant positions, the temporary and final restoration, and whether preparatory care or additional procedures may be needed.
  3. Implant placement and temporary restoration: Four implants are placed and a temporary fixed restoration may be fitted during the initial stage.
  4. Healing and review: The implants are allowed to heal and integrate before the final restoration is completed. Follow the recovery and review instructions given for your case.
  5. Final bridge and ongoing care: After checks, the temporary restoration is replaced with the planned final prosthesis. Ongoing cleaning and professional reviews remain part of long-term care.

How long does All-on-4 treatment take?

A treatment pathway may involve two visits: an initial stage of around 5–7 days, excluding additional procedures; a healing period of about six months; and a final visit of around 2–5 days for the permanent prosthesis. This is an indication of a typical pathway, not a fixed promise for every patient.

Bone grafting, extractions, gum health, healing, the planned restoration and other clinical factors can change the sequence or timing. Use a written treatment plan for travel and appointment planning rather than relying on a general timeline.

Can All-on-4 be considered when there is bone loss?

Bone volume and anatomy are assessed as part of planning. Imaging can help evaluate bone thickness and whether a bone graft may be needed. It does not mean that grafting can be avoided in every case of bone loss. The clinical team can assess the available options after reviewing your records and examination.

Care during healing and after the final bridge

During recovery, follow the treating clinician's instructions, keep the surgical area clean, attend checks and protect the area from trauma. A softer diet may be advised while wearing a temporary restoration. Your own instructions may differ according to your procedure and health history.

Implants do not decay, but gum and bone around them still need care. Daily cleaning and professional reviews help identify inflammation or changes around an implant. If you have symptoms around an existing implant, see our information about peri-implantitis treatment and arrange an individual assessment.

Questions to ask before choosing All-on-4

  • Which jaw and restoration are included in my plan?
  • What will be temporary and what will be fitted after healing?
  • Do my scans show a need for preparatory care or additional procedures?
  • What timing is expected for my specific case and what could change it?
  • How should I clean the temporary and final bridge, and when are reviews planned?
  • Which items and services are included in my written estimate?

Review the clinic's current price information, meet the clinical team and use the contact page to request a personalised assessment.

Medical information notice: This page provides general information and does not replace a dental examination, diagnosis or personalised treatment advice.