What is All on 4 dental implants ? How is it different from Three on Six dental bridges ?

02/10/2024 Dental Implant

When getting dental implants, it’s important not only to understand the meaning and procedure of dental implants but also to be aware of the different types of implants. This will help us choose the implant that best suits our dental needs, and we can also take proper care of the implant. 

Today, dental implants have been developed in various types to address a wider range of dental problems. The loss of natural teeth due to various reasons such as tooth decay, tooth extraction, gum disease, or accidents not only affects daily life but also impacts self-confidence. Dental implants have become an alternative option to replace the lost natural teeth. For those who have lost all their teeth and want to know what All on 4 implants are and how they differ from Three on Six dental bridges, The Tooth Club will help explain in this article. 

What is All on 4 dental implants?

All on 4 is a type of fixed dental implant designed to replace all the natural teeth lost in the upper or lower jaw. This technique involves placing four dental implants into the jawbone per arch. In some cases, a dentist may consider placing six implants depending on the bone structure and the patient’s dental issues. These implants serve as a foundation to hold a fixed denture in place, with screws securing the denture to prevent it from shifting. It is an effective alternative to removable dentures, helps slow down bone resorption in the implant area, and preserves the original facial structure. 

All on 4

All on 6

Advantages of All on 4 dental implants:

• Fewer implants required, and the procedure can be completed in a single day. 

• Strong and stable, functioning like natural teeth. 

• Ideal for those who have lost bone structure supporting their teeth. 

• Reduces the complexity of bone grafting. 

• Eliminates issues of loose or shifting dentures. 

• Shorter surgery time, leading to faster recovery and fewer dental visits. 

• With proper care and cleaning, can last a lifetime. 

Limitations of All on 4 dental implants

• If not cleaned properly, food particles can get stuck, leading to bacteria around the implants, which could cause gum inflammation. 

• Regular visits to the dentist are necessary for proper cleaning. 

• The initial set of dentures placed after the implant surgery is temporary and must be replaced with stronger materials. 

• If the denture becomes damaged, it must be removed and repaired, as the set is made of a single piece that covers the entire arch of teeth. 

3 on Six

Steps involved in the treatment

• Pre-implant assessment The dentist will take your medical history, examine your gum health, assess the supporting bone structure, scan your mouth, and take X-rays to check the amount of bone and the position of important structures, including nerves. This information will help in planning the implant procedure. 

• Implant placement After the dentist plans and designs your smile, they will create an incision in the gum to reach the jawbone and place the implants. The dentist will place two implants at the front teeth and two more at the last teeth in an angled position of 45 degrees to ensure a balanced foundation that can withstand chewing forces. However, the exact angle will depend on the dentist’s judgment and the patient’s dental health. 

• Denture placement Once the implants are securely in place, the dentist will attach a temporary set of dentures on the same day and adjust them for proper fit and bite. After six months, once the surgical area heals, you will return to replace the temporary set with a more durable and aesthetically pleasing permanent denture. 

Although the All on 4 dental implant solution is suitable for those who have lost all their teeth, it is recommended to consult with a dentist for a detailed diagnosis before deciding. Different types of implants are suited to different dental issues. After the procedure, maintaining proper oral hygiene and following the dentist’s care instructions is crucial to ensure the longevity of your new set of teeth.