The foundational component of a dental implant is the titanium post. The material itself is significant, since titanium has a remarkable ability to integrate directly with the jawbone. In other words, over time, the bone fuses securely to the titanium in a process known as osseointegration.
Thanks to this special property, dental implants are able to restore strength and stability to the jaw in a way that dentures simply cannot mimic. They are the preferred choice of dentists, and most patients prefer implants too because of their aesthetic appeal and natural function.
If you’ve made the decision to restore your missing teeth with dental implants, it’s time to schedule a consultation to discuss whether All on 4 or All on 6 dental implants are right for you.
Understanding the “all on” approach
The All on 4 and All on 6 approaches are used for patients who have many missing teeth, such as an entire arch of missing teeth. Without these innovative techniques, the patient would have to receive one titanium post for each missing tooth. This is a long, arduous process that will typically require multiple surgeries. Placing this many dental implants into one patient also requires a substantial amount of bone mass in order to anchor the implants. If the patient lacks enough bone mass, a bone augmentation procedure will be required. Instead, implant dentists can perform either an All on 4 or All on 6 approach to streamline the process, reduce surgical requirements, and manage costs for the patient.
Differences between the All on 4 and All on 6
The main difference between these two techniques is that the All on 4 approach requires the placement of four implant posts. The All on 6 requires the placement of six implant posts. The posts are spaced evenly across the dental arch, enabling a dental bridge to be securely fixed on top. The dental bridge includes the custom-made crowns, which are the artificial teeth.
Benefits of All on 4 and All on 6 implants
Depending on the patient, dentists often recommend the All on 6 approach because it provides the most stability for the jaw and the bite. Each time you bite and chew food, the exerted force needs to be distributed evenly along the jaw. With six titanium posts, the force can be spread out considerably.
However, even if patients aren’t good candidates for the All on 6 method, they can still get great results with the All on 4 method. All on 4 dental implants may be more appropriate for patients who do not have enough bone mass to support six implants, and who don’t wish to undergo a bone augmentation procedure.
Dental implant solutions in Suffolk County
For either All on 4 or All on 6 dental implants in Huntington, NY, patients can turn to Dr. Nick and Dr. Elliot at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. Our team of specialists prides itself on restoring our patients’ healthy, beautiful smiles in just one day because we understand what a tremendous difference it can make for quality of life, self-confidence, and overall wellness.
During your complimentary dental implant consultation, Dr. Nick or Dr. Elliot will determine whether All on 4 or All on 6 dental implants is the best choice for you. Call our office in Huntington, NY at 631.228.8308.
Additional resources:
- Mayo Clinic, Dental Implant Surgery, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry, What are dental implants? https://www.aaid-implant.org/dental-implants/what-are-dental-implants/
