The All-on-4 concept uses a small number of implants — often just four — angled and positioned to make the most of the bone that's available, supporting a complete arch of fixed teeth. It was developed specifically to avoid the need for bone grafting in many cases, and in suitable patients, a temporary fixed bridge can be fitted on the same day as surgery.

It's a fixed alternative to a full denture: the teeth don't come out, and patients eat, speak and smile with a set of teeth that functions like their own.

What's involved

• 3D scanning and planning to work out implant number, angle and position
• Placement of the implants — in suitable cases, with a temporary fixed bridge fitted the same day
• A healing period while the implants integrate with the bone
• Fitting of the final, permanent full-arch bridge

A recent case

The X-rays below are from a real All-on-4 case treated at the practice — showing the lower jaw before treatment, and the same jaw after four implants and a full-arch fixed bridge were placed.

The finished prosthesis

The lab-fabricated bridge from this same case, shown on the working model before fitting.

A second case

Another All-on-4 case treated at the practice — before and after X-rays, together with the change in the patient's smile.

Watch: the All-on-4 full arch concept