If you need dental implants for full-mouth restoration, you’ve likely heard about All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants. Both options provide a permanent way to restore your smile, but the question remains: Which Is Better All-on-4 or All-on-6? The choice isn’t always straightforward—each option has unique benefits, and what works best depends on factors like your bone health, budget, and long-term goals.
This blog will explore the differences between All-on-4 and All-on-6, helping you understand which one might be the better fit for your needs.
What Are All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants?
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants are popular solutions for people who need full-mouth restoration. They involve placing a set of dental implants to hold a permanent arch of teeth, making them excellent alternatives to removable dentures. But while both approaches offer a long-term fix for missing teeth, they differ slightly in how many implants are used and the stability they provide.
All-on-4:
This method uses four implants strategically placed in the jaw to support a full arch of replacement teeth. Some of the implants are placed at an angle, which allows for better anchoring in areas with less bone. All-on-4 is known for being less invasive and often doesn’t require bone grafting.
All-on-6:
This method shows that it involves placing six implants for added support and stability. With two extra implants, the load on each implant is reduced, providing better durability and enhanced chewing ability. All-on-6 is ideal for patients with strong jawbone density who want a more robust solution.
Which Is Better All-on-4 Or All-on-6?
| Feature | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
| Number of Implants | 4 implants per arch | 6 implants per arch |
| Stability and Support | It provides good support but may not handle heavy bite forces as well | It offers more durability and better distribution of bite force |
| Bone Requirements | It works well with low bone density, often no bone graft is needed | It requires sufficient bone for optimal implant placement |
| Surgical Procedure | Less invasive, shorter surgery time | Slightly more invasive with additional implants |
| Recovery Time | Quicker recovery due to fewer implants | It may require a bit more healing time since more implants are placed |
| Cost | It is more affordable | It is more expensive due to additional implants and materials |
Advantages of All-on-4 Implants
Less Invasive Surgery with Fewer Implants
All-on-4 uses only four implants per arch, which means fewer surgical sites. This makes the procedure less complex and reduces the risks associated with surgery.
Quicker Recovery and Shorter Treatment Time
Since fewer implants are placed, the overall procedure is quicker, and patients generally experience faster recovery. This allows you to return to daily activities sooner compared to more extensive implant procedures.
More Affordable Due to Fewer Implants and Materials
With fewer implants and less hardware required, All-on-4 tends to be more budget-friendly. Additionally, patients may avoid extra costs like bone grafting, which is often not needed with this approach.
Works Well Even with Low Bone Density
The strategic placement of the implants—some at an angle—allows for better anchoring, even in areas with less bone. This makes All-on-4 a great option for people who want to avoid bone grafting.
Immediate Functionality and Improved Quality of Life
In many cases, temporary prosthetics can be placed on the same day as the surgery, giving patients the ability to speak, smile, and eat almost immediately after the procedure.
Advantages Of All-on-6 Implants
Greater Stability and Better Bite Force Distribution
With six implants supporting the arch, the bite force is spread more evenly. This enhances chewing ability and provides better stability, especially for individuals who enjoy tougher foods.
Longer-Lasting Results for Active Lifestyles
The added support and durability of All-on-6 implants make them an excellent choice for those with active lifestyles. They ensure long-term reliability with minimal maintenance.
Ideal for Patients with Stronger Jawbone
All-on-6 implants are perfect for individuals with sufficient bone density, as the additional implants provide better anchoring and overall performance.
Lower Risk of Implant Failure Over Time
The extra implants reduce the load on each individual implant, decreasing the chances of wear, shifting, or failure over time, making All-on-6 a highly durable option.
Enhanced Comfort and Natural Feel
With more implants providing support, the prosthetic arch feels more secure and natural in the mouth, ensuring maximum comfort while speaking and eating.
Takeaway
Which is better All-on-4 or All-on-6? The decision between All-on-4 or All-on-6 depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and oral health. Both options provide effective solutions for full-mouth restoration, but they come with different benefits that may appeal to you. All-on-4 is often ideal for those looking for a quicker, more affordable option with less invasive surgery, while All-on-6 offers greater stability and durability for patients with stronger bone density.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which solution suits you is to consult with a dental professional who can guide you through the process based on your specific circumstances.
Find Out Which Option Fits You Best at Seattle’s Best Smiles
Book your consultation today with Seattle’s Best Smiles and explore whether All-on-4 or All-on-6 is the right choice for your smile restoration! New patients can call us at Kirkland, WA, and current patients can reach us at (425) 307-1177. Visit us at 13131 NE 85th St. Ste 201, Kirkland, WA 98033, and take the first step towards your perfect smile.
FAQs: Which Is Better All-on-4 or All-on-6?
Which option is more affordable, All-on-4 or All-on-6?
All-on-4 is more affordable because it requires fewer implants and less material, while All-on-6 is more expensive but highly stable.
Do All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants require bone grafting?
All-on-4 implants work well without bone grafting due to their angled placement. All-on-6 may require more bone density, so bone grafting might be needed in some cases.
All-on-4 or All-on-6 which option offers better chewing ability?
All-on-6 implants provide better bite force distribution and are ideal for those who want to enhance their chewing ability. However, All-on-4 also delivers reliable functionality for most patients.
