All on 4 replaces a full arch of missing, failing, or severely damaged teeth with a fixed bridge supported by four implants. It's typically considered for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth in an arch, or whose remaining teeth are not worth saving. Good candidates generally have enough jawbone to support the implants, though some patients with lower bone density may still qualify because of how the implants are angled. A dentist or oral surgeon assesses jaw structure, gum health, and overall health during a consultation to confirm candidacy, since factors like bone loss, smoking, and certain medical conditions can affect the plan.

All on 4 is fixed in place by four implants, while traditional dentures rest on the gums and can shift or need adhesive to stay put. Because All on 4 is anchored to the jawbone, patients often find it feels more stable when chewing or speaking, and it can help preserve jawbone that tends to shrink under removable dentures. Traditional dentures are usually less expensive upfront and do not require surgery, which may suit patients who prefer a non surgical option or are not candidates for implants. The right choice depends on budget, oral health, and personal preference, and a dentist can walk through both paths at a consultation.

All on 4, All on 6, and single implants are all ways to replace missing teeth with implants, but they differ in how many implants are placed and when they're typically used. All on 4 uses four implants per arch and is often chosen when jawbone volume is more limited, since the implants are angled to use available bone without grafting. All on 6 uses six implants and may be recommended for patients with more bone or those who want extra support for the bridge. Single implants replace individual missing teeth rather than a full arch and are used when most natural teeth remain. A provider compares these options based on how many teeth are missing, bone quality, and cost.

The consultation typically includes a dental exam, X-rays or a CT scan to check jawbone volume, and a review of medical history to plan the implant positions. If any teeth need to be extracted or the jawbone needs grafting before implants can be placed, the provider outlines that step and how it affects the overall timeline. Patients also discuss anesthesia options, review the cost and payment options, and receive instructions on what to do before surgery, such as arranging a ride home. This planning stage helps confirm candidacy and sets expectations for the number of appointments involved before the day of surgery.

During surgery, the provider places four implants into the jawbone at precise angles and typically attaches a temporary fixed bridge the same day. Most patients receive IV sedation or general anesthesia, so they are comfortable and unaware during the procedure itself. Some soreness, swelling, and mild discomfort are common for the first few days afterward, and providers usually recommend pain management to help. Any teeth that need to be removed or bone grafting that's required can be done in the same surgical visit, which is one reason planning ahead matters.

Placing implants and attaching a temporary bridge for one arch generally takes about two to three hours, and treating both the upper and lower arch in the same visit can take four to six hours total. The exact time depends on whether teeth need to be extracted first, whether bone grafting is required, and the complexity of each patient's jaw structure. Because of the length and the anesthesia involved, most patients need someone to drive them home afterward and should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.

Temporary teeth are a fixed bridge placed on the day of surgery so patients leave with a functional, natural looking smile right away. They are designed to be lighter and easier to adjust while the jawbone heals around the implants. Final teeth, usually made from more durable materials, replace the temporary bridge once the implants have fully bonded with the bone, a process called osseointegration. Switching to final teeth typically happens a few months after surgery, once the provider confirms the implants are stable enough to support the permanent prosthesis.

Initial healing of the gums and surgical sites generally takes one to two weeks, during which swelling and soreness improve. Osseointegration, the process where the jawbone fuses to the implants, takes longer and generally runs three to six months before the final bridge is placed. Timelines vary based on bone density, whether grafting was needed, and individual healing rates, so a provider monitors progress with follow up visits before moving to the permanent teeth. Following aftercare instructions, including a soft food diet in the early weeks, supports healing during this period.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, the implants themselves can last many years, and some patients keep them for life. The fixed bridge attached to the implants may need adjustment, relining, or eventual replacement over time due to normal wear, which is separate from the implants themselves. How long results last depends on factors like oral hygiene, gum health, grinding habits, and whether checkups happen on schedule. Patients are usually advised to have the bridge and implants checked periodically so any issues can be caught early.

As with any implant surgery, possible risks include infection, implant failure, nerve irritation, or the implants not fully integrating with the bone. Short term side effects like swelling, bruising, and soreness are common in the first week and usually improve on their own. Warning signs that need prompt attention from a provider include persistent pain, unusual swelling that worsens after a few days, fever, or an implant that feels loose. Discussing individual risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes, or bone density, with a provider beforehand helps set realistic expectations for healing.

Look for a dentist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon with specific training and experience in full arch implant procedures, since planning and placement require specialized skill. It's reasonable to ask how many All on 4 cases the provider has completed, what materials they use for the final bridge, and how they handle complications if they arise. Checking credentials, reading patient reviews, and asking to see before and after examples of similar cases can help with the decision. A consultation is a good opportunity to ask these questions directly before committing to treatment.

In Canada, All on 4 typically costs between $20,000 and $30,000 per arch, though prices vary by clinic and province. Costs are affected by whether teeth need to be extracted or bone grafting is required beforehand, the materials chosen for the final bridge such as acrylic versus zirconia, and the experience of the provider. Treating both arches roughly doubles the cost. Dental insurance rarely covers the full amount, since implants are often considered elective. Beautifi can help patients explore payment plans and financing options so treatment costs can be spread into monthly payments rather than paid upfront.