All-on-4 dental implants
All-on-4 gives you a full set of fixed teeth supported by four implants in each treated jaw. It is an option for people with many missing or failing teeth who want to stop wearing removable dentures.
Overview
All-on-4 uses four implants per jaw to support a fixed full arch of teeth. At Rubi Smile, the implants are placed, then left to heal for about three months; afterwards a titanium bar is made for each jaw and the zirconia teeth are attached, with 24 zirconia teeth in total when both jaws are treated. The rear implants are often tilted, which can help avoid bone grafting.
- Implants per jaw
- Four
- Healing period
- About 3 months
- Final teeth
- Titanium bar, zirconia teeth
- Both jaws
- 24 zirconia teeth in total
All-on-4 is designed for people who have lost most of their teeth, or whose remaining teeth cannot be saved, and who want teeth that stay in place: no moving dentures and no adhesive.
Because the rear implants can be placed at an angle, All-on-4 can sometimes be used when bone volume at the back of the jaw is limited, reducing the need for bone grafting. Whether this applies to you depends on your scan.
Is it right for you?
Often suitable when
- Most of your teeth are missing or cannot be saved
- You wear a denture and want fixed teeth instead
- Bone volume at the back of the jaw is limited
- You are in good general health and can attend two visits
- You will clean around the bridge daily and attend check-ups
How the treatment works
For each jaw, four implants are placed in the jawbone. They act as strong artificial roots. We wait about three months for healing while the implants bond with the bone.
After the healing period, a titanium bar is created for each jaw and the zirconia teeth are attached to it. The result is a full set of fixed teeth that look natural, feel stable and let you eat and smile with confidence.
Assessment and planning
A 3D scan shows bone volume and the position of nerves and sinuses, so that implant positions can be planned precisely. We review your medical history and medicines, discuss your expectations and design the shape and colour of your teeth to suit your face.
Your written plan covers extractions, implant placement, temporary teeth during healing if applicable, the final bridge and the timing of both visits.
Treatment stages
3D assessment and plan
Scan, examination, medical review and a written plan for both visits.
Implant placement
Remaining teeth that cannot be saved are removed and four implants are placed per jaw.
Healing
About three months while the implants bond with the bone.
Titanium bar and zirconia teeth
A titanium bar is made for each jaw and the zirconia teeth are attached, then the bite is adjusted.
Maintenance
You learn how to clean around the bridge and when to have check-ups.
Materials and techniques
Titanium implants support a titanium bar, with zirconia teeth for strength and a natural appearance. We design the shape and colour of your teeth to match your face and smile.
Recovery and aftercare
Expect swelling and discomfort for several days after surgery, managed with medication and a soft diet. You will receive detailed instructions. Adapting to speaking and chewing with new teeth takes some time.
- Follow the soft diet during healing
- Avoid smoking
- Keep the area clean as instructed
- Attend follow-up appointments
Risks and limitations
All-on-4 is surgical treatment with risks we discuss with you:
- Infection or delayed healing
- Failure of an implant to integrate, which may affect the bridge
- Nerve or sinus complications depending on implant positions
- Fracture or wear of the bridge teeth over time
- Peri-implantitis if cleaning is inadequate
- A period of adaptation for speech and chewing
Longevity and maintenance
With daily cleaning, professional maintenance and not smoking, All-on-4 is designed to last many years. The teeth on the bar may need repair or replacement over time. Brushing and cleaning are similar to natural teeth, with extra attention around the bridge.
What affects the cost
The cost of All-on-4 depends on:
- One or both jaws
- Number of extractions
- Temporary teeth during healing
- The final bridge material
- Imaging and visits
We do not publish fixed prices because every plan is different. After reviewing your X-rays or scans, we send a written, itemised quote.
Compared with alternatives
| Option | Implants per jaw | Fixed or removable | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-on-4 | 4 | Fixed | Tilted rear implants can avoid grafting |
| All-on-6 | 6 | Fixed | More support points; needs more bone |
| Implant-retained denture | 2–4 | Removable | Easier cleaning; less stable |
| Conventional denture | 0 | Removable | No surgery; can move |
If you are travelling to us
Plan two trips: one for implant placement and one, after about three months, for the titanium bar and zirconia teeth. Our team supports you between visits and helps with travel planning and follow-up care.
Frequently asked questions
How many teeth do I get with All-on-4?
A full arch of fixed teeth per jaw. When both jaws are treated, the final restoration has 24 zirconia teeth in total.
Is All-on-4 removable?
No. The bridge is fixed to the implants. Only your dentist can remove it, for example during maintenance.
How long is the healing period?
About three months before the titanium bar and zirconia teeth are fitted.
Can I have All-on-4 if I have been told I need bone grafting?
Sometimes. Tilted implants can avoid grafting in some cases, but this can only be confirmed with a 3D scan.
Written by the Rubi Smile patient team to explain treatment options in plain language. Clinical review by a Rubi Smile dentist is scheduled before publication. Pending clinical review
Related treatments
All-on-6
A full arch of fixed teeth on six implants, for patients missing most or all teeth in a jaw.
Dental Implants
A titanium root and a fixed crown to replace one tooth, several teeth or support a bridge.
Smile Makeover
A personalised combination of treatments to change the colour, shape and balance of your smile.
Start with a conversation, not a commitment.
Send us your questions and, if you have them, recent X-rays or photos. A dentist reviews your case and our coordinators explain the options, the likely timeline and the cost before you plan any travel.