Learn How All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants Work

Written by Jonathan Stacey
13/09/2024

Dental implants have improved the lives of millions of people worldwide. They provide a permanent solution to missing teeth that is far superior to dentures.

However, the idea of having every tooth replaced with a dental implant didn’t appeal to many people who thought it would take too long and be too expensive. Modern dentistry has found a way to address these concerns. They’re called the all-on-4 and all-on-6 dental implants. These full-mouth dental implants use only 4 or 6 implants in both the upper and lower jaw to anchor a permanent set of teeth. Having all-on-4 and all-on-6 dental implants fitted in Chiang Mai at GrandDent Dental Clinic can provide you with a perfect smile in less time and at a fraction of the cost of having individual dental implants.

Let’s look at how this new technique works. First, we’ll explain the process of an individual dental implant for comparison.

How Single Dental Implants Work

The individual dental implant is comprised of three parts: the dental implant, the abutment, and the crown. The first step of any dental implant is an examination and consultation with a dentist. X-rays of the existing bone structure of the jaw are taken to ensure your jaw has the depth, width and bone density to support the implant. As dental implants are a two-stage procedure, the dentist can provide a bone graft at the same time they install the implant, allowing them both to heal for3 to 4 months months before the second stage of the procedure.

The second stage is when the abutment (a piece between the implant and crown) and the crown are installed. The entire two-stage procedure takes a minimum of around 5 to 6 months to complete.

What are All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants?

Rather than each implant supporting a single tooth, the “all-on” technique uses either 4 or 6 implants to support a complete bridge of teeth in the upper and lower jaws. The implants are not right next to each other, so they don’t require time to heal completely before the next implant is performed. The implants can all be done at the same time.

The bridge is then quickly and easily screwed into the abutment instead of being cemented, as it would be in an individual dental implant.

Do All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants Hurt?

You’ll be under local anesthesia during the all-on-4 and all-on-6 treatments. The anesthesia wears off about two hours after the procedure. You may have slight soreness and need to eat soft foods for a day or two until your gums completely heal.

Different Techniques for All-on-4 and All-on-6

The all-on-4 technique is used for patients with ample bone depth, width and density. The all-on-6 technique is chosen for patients who have less bone density in their jaw and require more stability. This technique often requires bone grafting. Because of the bone grafts and the two extra implants, the all-on-6 procedure can take longer and be slightly more expensive.

They both typically have two front implants that are positioned straight up and down and two rear implants that are positioned at an angle facing the front of the mouth, with the all-on-6 technique having two implants midway between the front and back implants, too.

Benefits of All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants

The benefits of the all-on technique include a shorter turnaround time for repairing your smile. Where individual dental implants take a minimum of 5-6 9-10 months to complete, an all-on-4 or all-on-6 procedure can take as little as 2 or 3 days. Because there are more implants supporting the teeth, there are fewer bone grafts required, which results in a higher success rate.

Visit GrandDent Dental Clinic to learn more about all-on-4 and all-on-6 dental implants in Chiang Mai. Enjoy the renewed sense of confidence a perfect smile can provide. Make your appointment at GrandDent Dental Clinic in Chiang Mai today.

Written by Jonathan Stacey