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The All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants are implants that can replace your missing teeth. They are a solution for tooth loss. However, just like you, many people are confused about which dental implant to get.
For you to choose between the all-on-4 or all-on-6 can be a rigorous task.
In this article, we’ll look at the similarities and differences so you can make your best choice between the two dental implants.
Key Takeaways:
- All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants are options to replace missing teeth.
- The All-on-4 involves placement of four implants, while All-on-6 involves placement of six implants.
- The All-on-6 procedure has a higher chance of requiring bone grafting and is more expensive.
- The All-on-6 provides greater stability and strength.
- Cleaning between more rods can be more challenging with All-on-6.
- Hybrid prosthesis is a popular option for both All-on-4 and All-on-6, which provides improved aesthetics, phonetics and stability.
- Hybrid prosthesis is attached to the implant and cannot be removed by the patient.
- Hybrid prosthesis helps preserve bone tissues and does not affect chewing or facial expressions.
What Are All-On-4 and All-On-6 Dental Implants?
The all-on-4 dental implant is a technique where your upper or lower set of teeth is replaced with four implants. The four implants serve as a reinforcement system for the placement of a new set of fixed teeth.
The all-on-6 dental implant is a technique where the teeth in the upper or lower jaws are replaced by a bridge secured by six dental implants.
In the all-on-4 dental implants, four implants are made per arch without any form of grafting. There are four implants, two of which are located in the front region of the mouth and are vertical implants and two are located in the back region of the mouth and are angled implants.
The all-on-4 is a hybrid denture affixed on rods. The rod then has either upper or lower teeth attached to it. If your teeth are in a bad condition, the all-on-4 dental implant is a great solution for you. Instead of replacing all your teeth individually, you can go for only 4 implants.
In the all-on-6 dental implants, there may be bone grafting required. The six implants serve as an anchor for a bridge which is placed in the upper or lower jaw bones. The bridge then supports prosthetic teeth permanently in place.
The six dental implants also serves as a long-term solution for people with issues such as smiling, chewing and eating.
Similarities Between All-On-4 and All-on-6
- Both are effective dental treatments. The all-on-4 and all-on-6 dental implants are dental treatments used in the reconstruction of missing teeth from either the upper or lower jaw.
- Both are support systems. They serve as a support system for your prosthetic teeth to make them permanent and attached. You have no fear of dentures slipping in and out of your mouth.
- Both procedures are similar. These implants are placed to support the fixed dentures. Time is allowed for the implant to form an attachment with the jaw, after which a temporary denture is placed.
All-On-4 and All-On-6 Differences
- Different numbers. The obvious difference between both systems is the number of implants being placed in the jaw.
- All-on-4 involves four implants while All-on-6 involves six implants. The four implants go on the upper jaw and/or lower jaw. The six implants are similar to the four implants with extra two implants to serve as support to make the dental bridge tighter.
- Bone grafting. With the all-on-6 procedure, there is a higher probability that you will require bone grafting as the bone in the back of the mouth is generally more limited.
- All-on-6 is more stable. The all-on-6 implants give extra stability and strength. Though this is dependent on the patient’s mouth, gum, and jawbone condition. The additional two implants in the all-on-6 dental implant enhance the jaw.
- All on-6 costs more. The all-on-6 is more expensive than the all-on-4, as there are two additional implants and possible bone grafting
- All-on-6 is harder to clean. The more rods (implants) there are, the more posts there are to clean between.
- Differing dental implant shapes. The all-on-4 procedure makes use of angled dental implants while the all-on-6 procedure makes use of straight implants.
All-On-4 and All-On-6 Prosthesis Method
For either the all-on-4 or all-on-6, there are lots of prosthesis options made available.
Hybrid Prosthesis
The hybrid prosthesis is a type of prosthesis supported by dental implants. It comprises of the implants which are placed in your maxillary bone during the surgery. The implants are then attached to a prosthetic framework which in turn are connected to your prosthetic teeth to help restore function and aesthetics.
The hybrid prosthesis can’t be removed by the patient; it is screwed to the abutments. Abutments are devices that allow any dental prosthesis to be connected to the implant which is embedded in your bones.
Advantages of hybrid prosthesis include improved phonetics, aesthetics, whilst feeling and resembling natural teeth!
As the restoration becomes stable, there is no change in the masticating muscles that they intervene in facial expressions (again doesn’t really make sense to me??). As the restoration becomes stable over time, there is no change to your masticating muscles (which help you chew) or your muscles of facial expressions (which help you smile).
Additionally, hybrid prosthesis allows the preservation of bone tissues. They help avoid the deterioration that occurs after tooth loss and maintain the bone tissue.
Finally, hybrid prosthesis can last for years with good maintenance, whilst providing a great sense of comfort.
Conversely, hybrid prostheses cannot be removed by the patient. Only the dentist can handle the removal. Furthermore, the procedure requires 4-6 implants which can raise the bar financially.
The hybrid prosthesis is recommended for patients with total teeth loss and cases with generalised bone loss. As a patient, you may decide to go for a non-removable prosthesis, which has the natural feel and look of teeth.
Dental hygiene is always important!
To maintain your hybrid prosthesis, use:
- Electric irrigation (an oral health device for home dental care) – to remove larger amounts of plaque and food bacteria rapidly and efficiently
- Super floss type dental floss – to remove the more tenacious food traces
- Interdental brushes – can be used under the prosthesis and in-between the abutments for the removal of further retained foods
Like many dental procedures, there are risks associated with the fixed hybrid prosthesis. Some of the risks include food entrapment, implant failure, chipped porcelain or even cases of loose screws that may need replacement or repair.
Implant Bridge
The implant bridge is an alternative treatment to the hybrid prosthesis. If you have multiple tooth loss, you can go for an implant bridge. The implant bridge is tasked with restoring smiles and preserving jaws.
An implant bridge involves the implants in the jaw to be connected to the bridge directly, which results in the bridge being fixed and not removable. This offers a permanent solution for the patient.
A great feat of the implant bridge is that they are strong replacements for natural teeth. They can withstand the regular biting and chewing forces without altering the sensation of natural teeth. There is no shift of teeth during eating or smiling. Lastly, they are a great bone stimulator and are the less expensive option!
Hybridge vs All-On-4
The Hybrid bridge prostheses are used to replace all the teeth on either your upper, lower or both jaws. There’s no need for an individual implant for each tooth, rather a full bridge of new teeth is supported and attached by a few dental implants. With the Hybridge, there’s no long and complicated procedure.
For the upper or lower jaw to receive a Hybrid prosthesis, you must have any remaining upper teeth removed and may be able to have the implants placed immediately with the hybrid prosthesis installed shortly after.
The components of a Hybrid implant bridge are, a titanium screw inserted into the jaw bone, an abutment to attach the screw to the final prosthetic crown which replaces the natural tooth.
The Hybrid bridge is supported by a set of 4 -6 dental implants attached to the gums and jaws. Unlike the traditional dentures, it is permanently attached. It can be hard to clean because it is non-detachable, but it guarantees no shift in eating and chewing, also check out emergency denture replacement.
The All-on-4 vs All-on-6 Dental Implants – Which is Best for You?
When you have a missing tooth, it impacts heavily on your life. It negatively impacts your confidence and overall well-being.
Additionally, with missing teeth comes the natural deterioration of the surrounding bone. Just like the name, the all-on-4 and all-on-6 both involve placing either 4 or 6 implants respectively to serve as an anchor for dental prosthesis.
Both options have their pros and cons, but it is best to consult your dentist to see which is best for you.
The number of teeth you have helps in determining the type of all dental implant that is right for you. Aside from the number of teeth remaining, other factors such as density, strength and jaw bone help in determining the all-on solution right for you.
| Feature | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
| Number of Implants | 4 | 6 |
| Cost | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
| Stability | Stable | Extremely stable |
| Treatment time | Shorter | Longer |
| Jawbone density | Suitable for patients with limited jawbone density | Suitable for patients with adequate jawbone density |
| Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance | Requires less maintenance |
| Weight distribution | Distributes weight evenly | Distributes weight evenly |
All-on-4 vs All-on-6 Dental Implants Cost Australia
In Australia, the average cost of all on four dentures ranges from $23,000 – $27,000 per arch. However, note that the all-on-6 dental implant is more expensive than the all-on-4 because of the two additional implants. It is also to note that the cheap teeth implants Perth price may go up depending on the dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is Better: All-on-4 or All-on-6?
The choice between all-on-4 and all-on-6 best lies with your dentist. Though the all-on-6 makes for better stability, you should allow your dentist to decide the best for you as a lot of factors are in place.
2. How Long Do All-on-6 Implant Last?
The all-on-6 implant can last up to 10-20 years.
3. Do All-on-4 Implants Look Natural?
Yes, the all-on-4 implant looks and feels natural.
4. Is Getting All-on-4 Painful?
The all-on- 4 procedure is done under anaesthesia. So, generally you wouldn’t feel any pain during the implant procedure
5. How Long Do All-on-4 Teeth Last?
The all-on-4 can last for up to 10-20 years.
Conclusion
The all-on-4 and all-on-6 are both dental implants that are permanent solutions for your tooth loss. In making a choice, there’s no wrong decision to be made. It is up to you and your dentist to make an informed decision that is best tailored to you. It can also be based on how many implants you can afford.
No matter what, they are both great procedures for replacing missing teeth. Whichever decision you make, ensure you visit a well-experienced dentist to handle your procedure.
The dental health you choose is as important as the procedure itself since you want to avoid any future complications. Belmont Dental Surgery has just what you need when it comes to proper oral health and surgery. Contact us to book a consultation session with any if our well-equipped dentists.
