In the world of dental restoration, All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants represent significant advancements, offering durable solutions for those needing full arch restoration. Understanding the evolution and specific benefits of these systems is crucial for anyone considering dental implants.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants utilise four strategically placed implants within the jaw. This system is designed for efficient use of available bone and provides a stable foundation for a full arch of prosthetic teeth, often without the need for bone grafting.
What Are All-on-6 Dental Implants?
All-on-6 dental implants involve the placement of six implants, offering increased support and distribution of force across the jaw. This option is typically recommended for patients with higher bone density and those who require greater stabilisation for their dental prostheses.
Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6
The primary difference lies in the number of implants used and the distribution of force they allow. All-on-6 implants can provide more stability and support, especially in patients with sufficient jawbone structure to accommodate the additional implants.
Pros and Cons of All-on-4 Implants
Pros:
- Cost-effective and less invasive.
- Suitable for patients with lower bone density without requiring bone grafts.
Cons:
- Limited by the number of implants.
- May not offer as much force distribution as systems with more implants.
Pros and Cons of All-on-6 Implants
Pros:
- Provides enhanced stability and support.
- Better distribution of chewing forces across the jaw.
Cons:
- More invasive and typically more expensive than All-on-4.
- Requires sufficient bone density for placement.
Candidate Suitability for All-on-4
All-on-4 is best suited for patients who have limited bone density and are looking for a quicker, less invasive solution that avoids extensive surgical procedures like bone grafts.
Candidate Suitability for All-on-6
All-on-6 is ideal for patients who have good bone density and require a more robust solution to support their full arch restoration, providing a higher level of stability.
Surgical and Procedural Differences
All-on-6 generally involves a more complex surgical procedure due to the placement of two additional implants, potentially leading to longer surgery times and a slightly extended recovery period compared to All-on-4.
Longevity and Durability
Both systems are designed for long-term durability. The additional implants in the All-on-6 system can provide greater stability, which may translate to enhanced longevity and less wear over time.
Maintenance and Care Requirements
Both systems require regular dental hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups. All-on-6 may require slightly more attention due to the increased number of implants.
Cost Comparison
Typically, All-on-6 is more expensive than All-on-4 due to the additional implants and the complexity of the procedure.
Impact on Overall Dental Health
Both systems significantly improve dental health by providing stable, functional teeth replacements that help maintain jaw structure and prevent bone loss.
Summing it all up
Choosing between All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants depends on various factors, including your dental health, bone density, and personal preferences. Thinking of starting this journey, but aren’t sure which option is right for you? We would love to see you at our Kellyville clinic to discuss your options so that you can make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term oral health goals. At Kellyville Smiles, we are dedicated to guiding you through this process, ensuring that you receive the best possible care tailored to your individual needs.
