All-on-4® is an advanced dental implant technique designed to replace a full arch of missing or damaged teeth with just four strategically placed dental implants. Typically, this involves placing two implants vertically in the front of the jaw and two implants in the back, tilted at an angle (often up to 45 degrees). This angulation is a key feature, as it maximises the use of available bone, often reducing or eliminating the need for complex bone grafting procedures that might be necessary with traditional implant methods.
Unlike traditional methods that may require more implants (sometimes 6 to 8 per arch) and lengthy treatment times, All-on-4® offers a quicker, more efficient solution. This groundbreaking approach ensures a secure, natural-looking smile with minimal discomfort and recovery time, often allowing for the attachment of a provisional (temporary) set of teeth on the same day as the surgery.
The All-on-4® treatment can provide you with functional, natural-looking teeth in as little as one to two days with a temporary bridge.
The revolutionary All-on-4® treatment replaces missing teeth using four or more (if deemed necessary by your clinician for optimal support) titanium implants. These implants are biocompatible, meaning they integrate with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, which provides a secure and stable base for optimal oral biomechanics.
The All-on-4® implants then support a custom-made bridge of up to 10-12 fixed replacement teeth, instantly giving you back your smile and the ability to enjoy all kinds of foods. After a healing period of approximately 3-6 months, during which the implants fully integrate with your jawbone, your initial provisional teeth will be replaced with your final, long-lasting bridge.
In certain cases, missing teeth can lead to deterioration of the jawbone over time, meaning some patients require minor reconstructive bone grafting before they can have dental implants. Fortunately, as mentioned, the All-on-4® technique is designed to minimise this need. When reconstruction is unavoidable, it can often be done at the same time as the implant surgery, rather than prior, so that the treatment process is not prolonged.
Additionally, as All-on-4® typically requires a minimum of four titanium implants, it is sometimes possible to provide non-removable teeth, even with some degree of jawbone deterioration, that function and look far better than traditional removable dentures.
Understanding the journey can help you feel more prepared. Our All-on-4® treatment process generally involves the following steps:
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. This includes a thorough dental examination, a review of your medical history, and advanced imaging such as X-rays and 3D CBCT scans. This allows us to assess your suitability, determine bone quality and quantity, and meticulously plan the precise placement of your implants. We’ll discuss your aesthetic goals and answer all your questions.
The surgical procedure is typically performed under sedation dentistry options or general anaesthesia to ensure your comfort. The four titanium implants are precisely placed into your jawbone according to the predetermined plan. Any necessary tooth extractions or minor bone modifications can often be performed during this same appointment.
In many cases, a temporary, yet functional and aesthetic, set of teeth (a provisional bridge) can be attached to the implants on the same day or within 24-48 hours. This means you can leave our clinic with a renewed smile immediately after the placement phase.
Over the next three to six months, your jawbone will heal and fuse with the dental implants. During this period, you’ll use your provisional teeth, taking care to follow specific dietary and hygiene instructions.
Once osseointegration is complete and your gums have fully healed, we will take new impressions to create your final, permanent bridge. This bridge is meticulously crafted for optimal fit, function, and aesthetics, custom-designed to look natural and beautiful, ensuring a natural and beautiful result.
All-on-4® can be a suitable solution for a wide range of patients, particularly those who:
A detailed consultation with our experienced dental team will determine if All-on-4® is the best option for your specific circumstances and dental health needs.
If you’ve been concealing your smile, feeling disheartened due to past dental challenges, or struggling to enjoy your favourite foods, All-on-4® implants could be the life-changing solution you need. The key benefits include:
These implants reduce the necessity for complex bone grafts or costly, time-consuming treatments, providing comprehensive mouth rehabilitation in just a few appointments, often with minimal recovery time.
Usually performed under sedation or general anaesthetic, the All-on-4® procedure is fast, effective, has a quick recovery time, a high success rate and will have you looking and feeling your best. By negating the need for uncomfortable, poorly-functioning dentures, it is set to enhance your overall health and well-being.
Maintaining your All-on-4® implants is crucial for their longevity and success. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are key:
Following these guidelines will help ensure your All-on-4® smile remains healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
The cost of All-on-4® treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the materials used for your final bridge (e.g., acrylic, composite, or zirconia), and whether any preparatory procedures are needed. While it represents a significant investment, it’s important to consider the long-term value and the transformative impact on your quality of life.
During your consultation, we will provide a detailed treatment plan and a comprehensive breakdown of all associated costs. We can also discuss various payment options or financing plans that may be available to help make this life-changing treatment more accessible. Remember, All-on-4® can often be more cost-effective in the long run compared to ongoing expenses associated with traditional dentures or multiple individual implants.
While All-on-4® has a high success rate, like any surgical procedure, it carries some potential risks and considerations:
Choosing an experienced and qualified dental team significantly minimises these risks. We will discuss all potential considerations with you during your consultation to ensure you can make a fully informed decision.
At Kensington Dental Care, we prioritise your health and well-being, which is why we offer only the latest dental technology, treatment and innovation, such as All-on-4® implants. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care and exceptional results.
We have helped countless patients with All-on-4® dental implants Australia-wide, and we want to find the best solution for your dental needs too. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discuss whether All-on-4® dentistry is the right treatment for you. Let us help you rediscover your smile and confidence.
Our services are provided as a preferred partner of Bupa and HCF health funds. We also accept all other health funds, including the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA).
Here are answers to some common questions about the All-on-4® dental implant treatment:
All-on-4® is a dental implant technique that provides a full arch of replacement teeth using only four strategically placed titanium implants in your upper or lower jaw. Two implants are typically placed vertically at the front, and two are angled at the back to maximise bone support, often avoiding the need for bone grafting.
The surgical placement of implants and attachment of your initial provisional teeth can often be completed in a single day or within 1-2 days. You’ll wear these provisional teeth for about 3-6 months while your implants integrate with the bone, after which your final, permanent bridge is fitted.
The All-on-4® surgery is performed under anaesthesia (such as sedation or general anaesthetic) to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is generally manageable with prescribed pain relief medication and is similar to that of other dental surgical procedures. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
Caring for All-on-4® implants involves regular brushing twice a day, cleaning under the bridge with special tools like water flossers or superfloss, and attending regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings (usually every 6 months). Good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of your implants.
Ideal candidates are typically those who have lost most or all of their teeth, wear dentures, or have teeth that are failing. Good general health is important. A thorough consultation, including 3D scans, at Kensington Dental Care will determine your suitability.
All-on-4® implants offer significant advantages over traditional dentures. They are a fixed, permanent solution, meaning they don’t slip or move, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence. They also help preserve jawbone, look and feel more like natural teeth, and generally offer a higher quality of life.
The cost can vary based on individual needs, material choices for the final bridge, and case complexity. We provide a detailed quote after your initial consultation. While it’s an investment, All-on-4® can be a cost-effective long-term solution for full arch replacement. We can also discuss payment plans.
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, All-on-4® dental implants can last for many years, often a lifetime. The prosthetic bridge may need maintenance or replacement over time due to normal wear, typically after 10-15 years or longer, depending on the material.
If you have more questions or wish to discuss your specific situation, please contact our friendly team at Kensington Dental Care.