All-on-4 vs All-on-6 Dental Implants: Which Is Right for You?
Comparing two leading full-arch implant solutions to help you understand the key differences, potential benefits, and considerations for each approach. Suitability is determined following an individual clinical assessment.
Suitability is determined following consultation · Results vary between individuals
Understanding Your Full-Arch Implant Options
When considering a fixed solution for extensive or complete tooth loss, two of the most widely discussed approaches are All-on-4 dental implants and All-on-6 dental implants. Both treatments use dental implants to support a full arch of fixed replacement teeth, but they differ in the number of implants placed and, in some cases, their clinical applications.
This page provides an objective comparison of the two approaches to help you understand their respective features, potential advantages, and the factors that may influence which option is recommended for your individual case. It is important to note that the most appropriate treatment can only be determined following a thorough clinical assessment.
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional clinical advice. All treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified dental professional.
Quick Comparison: All-on-4 vs All-on-6
A summary of the key differences between the two approaches. Detailed explanations of each factor are provided in the sections below.
| Feature | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of implants per arch | 4 implants | 6 implants |
| Implant placement | 2 vertical (anterior) + 2 angled (posterior) | Typically 6 positioned more vertically |
| Bone grafting requirement | Often reduced due to angled placement | May be required more frequently |
| Load distribution | Distributed across 4 points | Distributed across 6 points |
| Typical surgical complexity | Generally less complex | May involve more surgical steps |
| Same-day provisional teeth | May be possible in suitable cases | May be possible in suitable cases |
| Suitability for reduced bone | Designed for limited bone scenarios | Generally requires more bone volume |
| Cost considerations | Typically lower (fewer implants) | Typically higher (additional implants) |
This comparison is provided for educational purposes. The suitability of either approach depends on your individual clinical circumstances and will be assessed during a consultation.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 is a treatment concept in which four dental implants are placed in the jawbone to support a complete arch of fixed replacement teeth. Two implants are typically positioned vertically in the anterior region of the jaw, while two are placed at an angle in the posterior region.
The angled placement of the posterior implants is a defining feature of the All-on-4 approach. It is designed to utilise available bone more effectively, which may help patients with some degree of bone loss avoid the need for bone grafting procedures. This can, in appropriate cases, simplify the treatment pathway.
In some cases, the All-on-4 concept may allow for immediate loading, meaning provisional fixed teeth may be placed on the same day as implant surgery. Whether same-day teeth are possible depends on factors including implant stability at the time of placement, bone quality, and the clinician's assessment.
Suitability for All-on-4 is determined through a comprehensive clinical assessment. Not all patients will be suitable for this approach.
What Are All-on-6 Dental Implants?
All-on-6 follows a similar principle to All-on-4 but uses six implants per arch instead of four. The additional implants provide more points of fixation within the jawbone, which may offer certain clinical advantages depending on the patient's bone structure and the forces the restoration will need to withstand.
The implants in an All-on-6 configuration are typically placed in a more vertical orientation compared to the angled posterior implants used in All-on-4. This means that All-on-6 generally requires a greater volume of available bone, and preparatory procedures such as sinus lifts or bone augmentation may be recommended before implant placement.
All-on-6 may be considered for patients who have sufficient bone volume and where the clinician determines that six implants would provide a more appropriate distribution of forces for the planned restoration. It may also be considered for the upper jaw, where bone quality can sometimes differ from the lower jaw.
As with all implant treatments, suitability for All-on-6 is assessed on an individual basis. Your clinician will discuss whether this approach is appropriate for your case.
Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6
While both treatments share the goal of providing a fixed, full-arch replacement for missing teeth, there are several important clinical differences that may influence your clinician's recommendation.
Number and Placement of Implants
All-on-4 uses four implants — two placed vertically and two at an angle — to maximise contact with available bone. All-on-6 uses six implants, which are typically placed in a more upright position. The greater number of implants may distribute occlusal forces across more points, but also requires more available bone tissue.
Bone Requirements
All-on-4 was designed with the consideration that some patients experience bone loss after tooth loss. The angled implants are intended to take advantage of the available bone in the anterior region, potentially reducing the need for bone grafting. All-on-6 generally requires a more substantial bone foundation, and augmentation procedures may be necessary in cases of significant bone resorption.
Surgical Considerations
The All-on-4 procedure involves placing four implants, which may result in a shorter surgical appointment in some cases. All-on-6 involves placing two additional implants, which may extend the treatment time. If preparatory procedures such as a sinus lift are required, this may add further stages to the All-on-6 treatment pathway.
Force Distribution and Stability
Six implants provide additional points of anchorage, which may result in a wider distribution of biting forces across the arch. This can be a consideration in cases where the patient has a strong bite or where the restoration will be subject to significant loading. Four implants, when placed correctly, are designed to provide sufficient support for a full-arch prosthesis in appropriate candidates.
Long-Term Maintenance
Both approaches require ongoing implant maintenance, including regular professional hygiene appointments and home care. The maintenance requirements are broadly similar for both treatments. Your clinician will provide a tailored maintenance plan regardless of which approach is used.
Potential Advantages and Considerations
Both approaches have clinical features that may be advantageous depending on the patient's individual situation. The information below is provided for educational purposes and should not replace individual clinical advice.
All-on-4
Potential Advantages
- Fewer implants may mean a shorter surgical procedure
- Angled placement designed to work with available bone
- May reduce the need for bone grafting in some cases
- Same-day provisional teeth may be possible
- Generally lower overall treatment cost
Considerations
- Fewer points of force distribution
- May not be suitable if clinician determines more support is needed
- Not appropriate for all bone types or clinical situations
All-on-6
Potential Advantages
- Six implants may provide greater force distribution
- Additional support points across the arch
- May be preferred for the upper jaw in some cases
- Same-day provisional teeth may be possible
- Provides an alternative when four implants may not suffice
Considerations
- May require bone grafting or sinus lift procedures
- Generally higher treatment cost due to additional implants
- May involve a longer or more complex surgical procedure
Individual outcomes depend on clinical circumstances. Your clinician will discuss which approach may be more appropriate for your case.
Cost Comparison: All-on-4 vs All-on-6
The cost of full-arch implant treatment depends on a number of individual factors, and providing a fixed price without a clinical assessment would not be appropriate. However, it is worth understanding the general factors that influence pricing for each approach.
Factors that may influence the cost of your treatment include:
- The number of implants placed (four vs six per arch)
- Whether the upper arch, lower arch, or both arches are being treated
- Whether preparatory procedures such as bone grafting or a sinus lift are needed
- The materials selected for the implants and the final prosthesis
- The complexity of your individual case and clinical history
- Any sedation options selected for the procedure
As a general guide, All-on-6 treatment typically involves a higher overall cost than All-on-4 due to the additional implants and, in some cases, additional preparatory procedures. For a broader overview of dental implant costs, please visit our dedicated pricing page.
We recommend attending a consultation to receive a detailed, personalised quotation. Finance options may be available to help manage the cost of treatment, subject to status.
Which Option May Be More Suitable for You?
The decision between All-on-4 and All-on-6 is a clinical one, made in collaboration between you and your clinician following a thorough assessment. However, certain factors may make one approach more appropriate than the other.
All-on-4 May Be Considered When:
- There has been some degree of bone loss in the posterior region
- The patient wishes to avoid or minimise bone grafting procedures
- A streamlined treatment pathway with fewer surgical stages is preferred
- The lower arch is being treated, where bone is often denser
- Cost is a significant consideration in the treatment decision
All-on-6 May Be Considered When:
- There is sufficient bone volume to accommodate six implants
- The clinician determines that additional support points would benefit the case
- The upper jaw is being treated, where bone can be less dense
- The patient has a particularly strong bite or bruxism history
- Maximum force distribution is a clinical priority
These are general guidelines only. Your clinician will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your individual assessment. In some cases, a different treatment such as a full arch implant bridge or implant-retained dentures may be more appropriate.
Why Choose Our South Kensington Clinic
Our clinic in South Kensington provides both All-on-4 and All-on-6 treatment within a well-established, regulated practice. We are committed to honest, evidence-based advice and will recommend the approach best suited to your individual needs.
Regulated Practice
We are registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and adhere to the standards set by the General Dental Council (GDC) and Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).
Clinician-Led Decisions
Treatment recommendations are based on clinical assessment and your individual needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach. We will always recommend the most appropriate option.
Long-Term Support
Our commitment extends beyond the treatment itself. We provide ongoing maintenance, hygiene support, and reviews to help protect your investment in your oral health.
All-on-4 vs All-on-6: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about comparing All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Book a consultation at our South Kensington clinic. Your clinician will assess your suitability for All-on-4 or All-on-6 treatment, discuss your options, and provide a personalised treatment plan. You can also contact our team to discuss your circumstances before attending.
Suitability is determined following consultation. Results vary between individuals.