Table of content
Table of content
All-on-4, All-on-6, and zygomatic implants are modern dental implant techniques used to restore a full arch of missing teeth with fixed implant-supported prostheses.
These methods are great alternatives to the traditional method because they provide patients with non-removable teeth that function and look like natural ones.
Having said that, if you are unsure of which one is perfect for your case, don’t worry; you are not alone.
In this guide, we will break down each option clearly. We will also examine who they’re most suitable for, along with their key benefits and potential drawbacks.
Understanding Full-Arch Implant Rehabilitation
Full-arch implant rehabilitation is a restorative dental procedure that involves placing permanent dental implants to replace an entire set of missing teeth.
These implants act as stable anchors in the jawbone, holding a fixed bridge or denture firmly in place. This will then help restore the full function, strength, and natural appearance of your smile.
Many patients prefer this restorative procedure to getting regular dentures for many reasons:
- Unlike traditional dentures, full arch implants are designed to stay fixed (permanent) in the mouth. This not only saves money, but it also eliminates the discomfort and hassle of constantly removing and cleaning dentures.
- With proper care, full arch implants can last for many decades
- They can also mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. As a result of this, patients will gain more confidence and smile comfortably again.
- Full arch implants also help prevent further bone loss and preserve your natural facial structure
- Since they are anchored into the jawbone, there won’t be any need for messy adhesives to hold them in place.
Understanding the Treatment Options
When it comes to full-arch implant rehabilitation, you have three main choices. Each method works differently and suits different situations. Here is a quick breakdown of each one and its benefits:
All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 dental implants use four strategically placed titanium implants to support an entire arch of fixed, prosthetic teeth. This procedure is a much better alternative to removable dentures for many reasons:
- It offers a permanent, stable solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth.
- Also, as long as the patient’s bone quality is still good, the procedure won’t mandate another session of bone grafting.
- And best of all, no slipping, no adhesives, and no nightly removal
Who is this treatment best for?
All-on-4 dental implants are best for patients who fall into the following categories:
- Patients who want to avoid bone grafting.
- People with good bone in the front jaw.
- Patients who are more interested in less invasive treatment.
- Those wanting a cost-effective solution.
As Dr. Şükran Baycan, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with 10+ years of experience, pointed out, “Many patients tend to choose the All-on-4 procedure as their top option. As standard practice, we first examine their bone quality, and if luckily, it’s strong enough, we proceed without the need for additional grafting.”
All-on-6 Dental Implants
All-on-6 dental implants follow the same concept and process as the All-on-4 dental implant. Only that this time around, two more implants are added to the 4 to give extra support and spread forces better.
Who is this treatment best for?
This full-arch dental implant is best suited for:
- Patients who want maximum stability and are not afraid to spend a lot to achieve it.
- Patients with mild to moderate bone deficiencies who need extra support for long-term durability.
- Patients who naturally bite harder or grind their teeth, and require a stronger, more secure foundation.
Zygomatic Implants
This is an advanced full-arch dental implant that anchors in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) instead of the jaw. It is often considered the “last resort option, recommended only when the jawbone has gotten worse and can no longer support traditional implants.
Unsure about how zygomatic implants work? Here is a quick rundown.
If your jawbone can no longer support an implant, the four points of attachment needed for a full arch are instead created on the zygomatic bone. The zygomatic bones are a lot stronger, and they tend to keep their thickness, making them an ideal site.
Who is this method best for?
This advanced implant is best suited for
- People with bad upper jawbone.
- Patients who have failed previous implant tries.
- Patients who suffer from severe bone loss and do not want to undergo bone grafting.
Comparison Between Zygomatic Implants, All-on-6, and Zygomatic Implants
Below is a comparison table that highlights the similarities and differences between the three full-arch Implants
| Key feature | All-on-4 implants | All-on-6 implants | Zygomatic implants |
| Number of Implants | 4 implants per arch | 6 implants per arch | 4 points of attachment on the zygomatic bone and 2 on the jawbone |
| Placement area | 2 straight front, 2 angled back | 4-6 straight or mixed angles | On the cheekbone and jawbone |
| Bone requirement | Moderate bone needed | Good bone needed | It is not installed on the jawbone; hence, it works with severe bone loss. |
| Bone grafting needed | It is usually not needed. | It varies depending on dentist recommendation. | Not needed here |
| Complexity of the surgery | Moderate | Moderate | It is a very complex operation that should only be handled by a qualified dentist |
| Best For | Moderate bone loss | Good bone, strong bite | Severe upper jawbone loss |
| Cost Level | It is fairly cheap | Cheap, but it obviously costs more than All-on-4 implants. | It is very expensive, but not outrageously expensive |
How to Choose the Right Implant for Your Case
Choosing the implant rehabilitation that fits your condition is not something you can rush into. Typically, there are key factors you will need to consider:
- Your bone condition. Understandably, your bone health will ultimately determine which procedure is right for you.
- Your overall health history will also play a big part in the decision.
- Your lifestyle and habits will also play a big part.
- Your time frame. That is, how urgent you want it to be.
- Budget.
Full-Arch Implants Checklist: What Makes Me a Candidate?
You will be deemed eligible to receive a full arch implant if you meet all the following criteria:
- You are over the age of 18 (Jaw fully grown)
- Your general health is good.
- You tend to heal faster.
- You have no untreated tooth decay in the remaining teeth.
- No active infections in (You can get this treated first).
- You are willing to follow every post-surgery
If you have some health conditions, you shouldn’t rule yourself out just yet. You can obviously still get implants with proper medical coordination.
“Very few people truly can’t get implants,” Dr. Şükran Baycan assures. “We work with patients’ doctors to improve conditions. Most medical issues just need careful planning.”
Get Your Full-Arch Treatment at DentSpa
Choosing the right full-arch rehabilitation method shouldn’t feel hard. With proper guidance and evaluation, the decision becomes clear.
At DentSpa, we provide comprehensive full-arch solutions. As the best dental clinic in Europe, we have a surgical team that possesses the skills and experience required to ensure every implant is placed with precision and care.
What’s more? Our facilities are modern and are equipped with all the latest dental technology. Also, and perhaps more importantly, there are no surprise bills or hidden fees; we’re always upfront about costs from day one.
With that said, whether your case is straightforward or really complex, we’ve most likely handled situations similar to it before. We’ll go through your oral cavity with 3D imaging to see exactly what’s going on in there. Afterwards, we’ll sit down together and figure out which method is the best fit for you.
One of the best parts of all this is that, whether you’re just getting a recommendation or getting your full rehabilitation done, you won’t even feel the slightest bit of anxiety. That’s because, following our name, our clinic has a cool and calming atmosphere—the kind you’ll see at a Spa, not a high-stakes ER.
Ready to get started? Get in touch with us today to schedule your full-arch consultation and get the smile of your dreams.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need zygomatic implants?
Easy. You know you need a zygomatic implant when you notice that the bone in your upper jaw has disintegrated completely. Your oral surgeon will figure this out through 3D imaging and examination
Can I get same-day teeth with all three methods?
It depends on what your surgeon decides after examining your bone quality! But usually, immediate loading is possible with all three methods. This means that on the same day you commence your treatment, you will leave with temporary teeth. The permanent one will then be installed once you have completely healed in 3 to 6 months
Which method lasts the longest?
With proper care, all three methods can last a lifetime. Most failures happen from poor cleaning, not the implants themselves.
How long does the entire treatment process take?
Treatment times for All-on-4 and All-on-6 are somewhat similar. Within 3 to 6 months, you should be back to full fitness. Zygomatic implants also follow the same timeline, even though they are more complex
Are full-arch implants painful?
Yes and No. During the surgery, you will typically be placed under anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain. However, after surgery, you could feel some discomfort. The good news is that the pain you feel after the surgery can be managed with prescribed pain relief.
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