At Atwood Advanced Dentistry, we conveniently offer our patients several different types of dental implants-- including All-on-4. Also known as “implant-supported dentures,” All-on-4 dental implants allow Dr. Atwood to create a fully reconstructed arch using as few as four implants instead of the eight that are typically required. All-on-4 dental implants are a reliable, cost- effective way for patients with multiple missing teeth to achieve perfection, one smile at a time.

What is All-on-4?

Unlike other dental implant types that require separate screws for each replacement tooth, All-on-4 dental implants can support a full arch fixed bridge restoration using only four or five implants. This concept isn’t just about cost but has more to do with providing the right balance between having sufficient bone to support the implants and stabilizing the prosthetic teeth.

With All-on-4 implants, two implants are placed at the front of the mouth and two in the back. The four implants provide a firm foundation, like pillars supporting a building. The front implants are placed in a traditional, straight manner, while the rear implants are tilted at a 45-degree angle. The reason for the tilting of the posteriors is to eliminate the need for a bone graft. Once in place, the implants can then be used to hold a fixed bridge.

If you are wondering, “What are All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 dental implants?,” when the patient has a good bone density, Dr. Atwood can place six implants. While four implants are the minimum, six provide even better stability for supporting a full-arch bridge restoration.

Why are All-on-4 implants a good choice?

Fewer screws are sometimes better when there’s not enough bone in front of the patient’s sinuses. And if implants are needed in the lower jaw, there’s a long nerve that can get in the way of screws. By using just four to six screws, you eliminate a lot of these potential problems. And although All-on-4 dental implant overdentures are not easily removable like traditional dentures, they can be removed by a dental professional for cleaning and maintenance purposes. 

As an alternative to traditional dentures, All-on-4 dental implants offer these advantages:

  • Look and feel more natural when speaking, chewing, or smiling
  • Don’t have to be removed for cleaning or while sleeping
  • No messy adhesives are needed
  • Limited lifestyle disruptions and food restrictions
  • Can be cleaned and brushed just like real teeth
  • Help prevent bone loss and the likelihood for bone-grafting surgery
  • With proper hygiene and maintenance, they last up to 40 years

However, not every patient is a candidate for an All-on-4 procedure. The best way to determine if an All-on-4 dental implant upgrade is right for you is by scheduling a consultation appointment with Dr. Atwood. During your visit, he will provide you with step-by-step instructions on what to expect when getting your All-on-4 dental implants.

All-on-4 cost

Several variables factor into the cost of All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants, including the placement of the implants and whether any additional treatments are needed (tooth extraction, bone shaping, etc.). On average, the cost for a single arch of implant-supported teeth can range between $10,000 and $20,000 or more.

On the other hand, it is considerably less than you can expect to pay for a more traditional solution to reconstruct an arch-- one that offers far more comfort, longevity, and oral health benefits than the cheaper, removable denture option.

And although dental implants might cost you less in Mexico, traveling there for your All-on-4 procedure can be risky. For example, many dentists that perform dental implant surgeries in Mexico lack the training and experience of a board-certified prosthodontist like Dr. Atwood. In addition, Mexican dentists that commit mistakes while placing dental implants are often not sanctioned like they are here in the USA. As a result, finding the cheapest place to get All-on-4 dental implants is not always the best decision.

Are they the only choice?

All-on-4 dental implants are not right for everyone, including patients with advanced problems due to bone recession, those with severe periodontal disease, or people that have undergone radiation therapy within the last five years.

Other factors that might rule out an All-on-4 procedure may include heavy smoking or uncontrolled diabetes. In those cases, Dr. Atwood might recommend another type of dental implant, traditional dentures, or a traditional bridge.

Call us today

At Atwood Advanced Dentistry, our restorative dentistry services help patients achieve perfection, one smile at a time. If you have any questions about All-on-4 dental implants or would like to request a smile consultation appointment with Dr. Atwood, please contact us today at 970-241-2430.