All-on-4 and All-on-6 Implants

Replace an entire arch of teeth with as few as four implants

For patients who have lost most or all of their teeth — or who are heading toward that point — All-on-4 and All-on-6 implant-supported prostheses offer a fixed, full-arch solution that functions and looks like natural teeth. Rather than individual implants for each missing tooth, a full arch of teeth is supported by just four or six strategically placed implants.

At Lockleys Dental Clinic, Dr Alex Furlan places implants in-house. Dr Furlan is completing his Postgraduate Diploma in Implantology and performs All-on-4 and All-on-6 cases with IV sedation available on-site — meaning the entire surgical phase can be managed in a familiar, comfortable environment without a hospital stay.

All-on-4 vs All-on-6

All-on-4

Four implants support a full arch of teeth. The two posterior implants are angled (typically at 30–45 degrees) to maximise contact with available bone, which often means All-on-4 can be performed without bone grafting even in patients with moderate bone loss. A temporary fixed prosthesis is typically attached on the same day as implant surgery.

All-on-6

Six implants provide a broader distribution of support, which can improve long-term stability and load distribution across the arch. All-on-6 may be recommended when bone quality and quantity allow for additional implant placement, or when greater support is needed for the prosthesis. The six-implant configuration is often considered where a more robust foundation is preferred.

Which is right for you?

The choice between All-on-4 and All-on-6 depends on your bone volume and density, the planned prosthesis, and Dr Furlan's clinical assessment. Both approaches aim to deliver a stable, fixed full-arch result. We'll review your scans and walk you through the recommendation during your consultation.

Who is a candidate?

All-on-4 and All-on-6 procedures are generally considered for patients who:

• Are missing most or all teeth in one or both arches
• Wear full or partial dentures and find them uncomfortable or unstable
• Have teeth that are failing or non-restorable and need to be extracted
• Have sufficient bone volume or are suitable for bone grafting if needed
• Are in good general health (certain medical conditions may affect candidacy)
• Do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking around the time of surgery

Smoking significantly affects implant healing outcomes. If you smoke, we'll discuss this openly during your consultation. Individual outcomes vary based on bone quality, health, and post-treatment care.

The treatment process

Step 1 — Consultation and imaging

A thorough assessment including OPG X-ray, CT scan (where indicated), and clinical examination is conducted to evaluate your bone structure, gum health, and overall suitability. We discuss the full treatment plan, including the number of implants, the prosthesis design, sedation options, timeline, and costs. There are no surprises.

Step 2 — Extractions (if needed)

Any remaining failing teeth are extracted, often at the same surgical appointment as implant placement. Dr Furlan manages this in-house under local anaesthetic and IV sedation where appropriate.

Step 3 — Implant placement and immediate loading

The implants are placed under sterile surgical conditions. A temporary fixed prosthesis — so you leave with teeth — is typically attached to the implants on the same day. This prosthesis is designed to be worn while the implants heal and integrate with the bone over the following months.

Step 4 — Healing and integration

Osseointegration — the process by which the titanium implants fuse with the jawbone — typically takes three to six months. During this time you'll have a temporary fixed prosthesis and will be seen for review appointments.

Step 5 — Final prosthesis

Once integration is confirmed, the final prosthesis — typically made from high-strength zirconia or acrylic-over-titanium framework — is fabricated and attached. We use our PrimeScan digital scanner to take precise impressions for the final restoration.

Maintaining your All-on-4 or All-on-6

• Clean under and around the prosthesis daily using water flossers or interdental brushes
• Regular professional hygiene appointments — your hygienist will use instruments safe for implant surfaces
• Avoid biting very hard foods (ice, hard candy) that can chip the prosthesis
• Attend all scheduled review appointments — early detection of any issue protects your investment
• If you grind your teeth at night, discuss a protective device with your dentist

Frequently asked questions