All-on-4 vs All-on-6: How to choose the ideal prosthetic option?

People who have completely or partially lost their teeth can now finally get a prosthesis to replace the missing row of teeth. Modern advancements in dentistry allow these dental prostheses to be made immediately, reducing the time required to restore the ability to smile and chew. We are talking about hybrid dental prostheses: what they are and how All-On-4 or All-On-6 implantation methods can help you regain long-lost teeth.

A dental implant is like an artificial tooth root. It is a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone. This post will fuse with the bone tissue over a few months to provide a stable platform on which a dental crown can be installed.

If you have an infection under the root or if your tooth has completely broken due to trauma or decay, you may need to have it removed. Dental implants have become the modern approach to replacing missing teeth, surpassing dental bridges as the #1 tooth replacement option worldwide.

In some adverse situations (e.g., patients with chronic gum disease or severe tooth decay), it may be necessary to remove all teeth. This is where the All-On-4 and All-on-6 prosthetic implantation methods can help save the situation.

What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?

If you need to replace all your teeth, the All-On-4 dental implantation method is likely your first option. Instead of replacing each individual tooth with dental implants, only 4 implants per arch are needed to provide restoration that is not only functional and aesthetic but also durable. These four posts are implanted into your jawbone, and a full-arch hybrid prosthesis is fabricated and attached to the four posts. Essentially, it is a hybrid prosthesis that is installed on the posts and can replace both upper and lower teeth as a permanent solution. This prosthesis cannot be removed unless your dentist uses their tools to remove it during annual check-ups.

This is an excellent solution for patients who have lost all their teeth as well as for those whose teeth are deteriorating. Keep in mind that the installation requires sufficient bone thickness, so if you have bone deficiency, you may need to start treatment with a procedure known as bone grafting.

What Are All-On-6 Dental Implants?

The All-On-6 design is similar to the concept of All-On-4 dental implants. The main difference lies in the two additional posts for improved stabilization of the structure. All-On-6 involves a complete set of dental implants for situations where no teeth are left in the jaw. These implants will fuse with your jawbone over time, allowing them to mimic your natural roots. The arch will be attached to six posts, giving you a permanent set of teeth, similar to the All-On-4 design.

This procedure is intended for people who are missing all their teeth or plan to remove their teeth and replace them with an “all-on-6” arch. It offers a long-term solution for people who have had difficulties eating, chewing, and smiling.

The Difference Between All-On-4 and All-On-6

All-On-4 and All-On-6 dental implants have much in common, except for the use of two additional dental implants for extra stabilization of the hybrid prosthesis (as shown in the All-On-6 concept). Both methods aim to solve similar issues; specifically, they offer a permanent tooth replacement option while allowing you to function without fear of dental prostheses slipping out in the mouth.

The procedure takes 2-3 hours and is usually performed under general anesthesia. Both procedures place the prosthetic arch on implants.

There Are Three Key Differences Between These Two Approaches:

• The All-On-6 concept uses two additional implants per arch to help stabilize the hybrid prosthesis. This is beneficial for patients with very long dental arches where 4 implants may lead to fracture and breakage of the final prosthesis.

• The All-On-6 concept is generally more expensive since two additional implants (along with their prosthetic parts) are installed to create a functional hybrid prosthesis. Expect to pay $6,000 more per arch for All-On-6 compared to All-On-4. More details below.

• The All-On-4 approach uses a slightly tilted outer dental implant. This reduces the cantilever effect to prevent potential hybrid prosthesis failure. The All-On-6 approach uses parallel implants, and since two additional implants are placed closer to the back of the jaw(s), the cantilever effect is minimized, reducing the chance of permanent prosthesis fracture.

Who Should Not Get Implants

Implants should not be placed if:

• There is inflammation of the gum tissue,
• Unhealthy teeth,
• Misaligned bite,
• Thin jawbone,
• Autoimmune diseases,
• Conditions related to the CNS,
• Blood formation and blood disorders,
• Problems with the temporomandibular joint,
• Patients under 16 years old.

Cost of All-on-4 and All-on-6 Implants

One of the key differences between All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants is the cost. All-on-4 implants are cheaper mainly because fewer implants are required. The average cost of all four implants is around $59,000. This usually includes restoration of both the upper and lower jaws with a permanent set of hybrid prostheses attached to the implants.

In fact, the procedure in the USA can cost anywhere from $35,000 to $120,000 for a full set of teeth and may take up to a year. This depends on the quality of your jawbone and the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lift.

All-on-6 implants are more expensive because they require two additional implants. The cost of All-on-6 implants in the USA ranges from $40,000 to $140,000. The costs will vary depending on the practicing dentist, the need for additional procedures, and whether your dental insurance helps cover any of the associated expenses.

Some dentists offer same-day permanent prosthetic solutions using other materials, which are a bit cheaper. However, when comparing prices, it’s important to note that the cost can vary greatly from dentist to dentist in different countries. Remember, this is a major commitment, so be mindful of how each dollar is spent.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• Quick installation of dental implants,
• Ability to eat any type of food, just like natural teeth,
• The appearance of dental implants is indistinguishable from real teeth,
• Easy and simple maintenance of oral health.

Disadvantages:

• Temporary difficulty with pronunciation due to changes in mouth geometry,
• Residual pain and discomfort during the healing of the posts in the jaw,
• Risk of implant rejection – not every implant may successfully integrate with the gums and bone.

All-on-4 in Turkey: How Long Will the Treatment Take?

The All-on-4 method requires two visits to the clinic. During the first visit, you will need to stay in Istanbul for 6 days. At least 3 months later, you will return for a second visit, which will last 10 days. Implants are placed during the first phase. You will also receive a temporary prosthesis until the treatment is completed, and during the second phase, the permanent prosthesis will be made. You will also have free time during your stay. Treatment in Turkey is cheaper than in Europe or the USA. Compared to Europe and the USA, you save up to 60-70% on treatment costs, and for All-on-4 treatment, you save about 50% compared to treatment with fixed crowns and dental bridges. The treatment is both affordable and high-quality.

Proper Care

Caring for dental prostheses is similar to caring for natural teeth (except for flossing). Additionally, every few years, the proprietary screws of the attachment should be replaced, and annual check-ups with the dentist are recommended.

If you are interested in getting dental implants in Turkey, fill out the form below. Our medical specialists will contact you for a consultation and to create a treatment plan.