All-on-4 vs All-on-6 Dental Implants: Which Is Right for You?
If you are considering dental implant solutions to replace a full arch of teeth, you may have come across All-on-4 and All-on-6. Both are established approaches to full-arch rehabilitation, but they differ in design, suitability, and clinical requirements. This page explains the key differences to help you understand your options — the right choice always depends on a thorough clinical assessment.
All-on-4 vs All-on-6: Side-by-Side Comparison
The table below provides a high-level overview. Individual suitability depends on your clinical assessment.
| Feature | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Implants | 4 per arch | 6 per arch |
| Procedure Type | Fixed full-arch restoration | Fixed full-arch restoration |
| Treatment Time | Typically shorter surgical phase | May require slightly longer |
| Stability / Support | Good — angled posterior implants | Additional support from 2 extra implants |
| Bone Requirements | May suit reduced bone volume | Generally requires more bone |
| Cost (UK Range) | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Longevity | Long-lasting with proper care | Long-lasting with proper care |
| Suitability | Patients with moderate bone loss | Patients with adequate bone density |
This comparison is for general guidance only. A clinical assessment is required to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a full-arch implant solution that uses four strategically placed dental implants to support a complete set of fixed replacement teeth. Two implants are placed vertically at the front of the jaw, while two are angled at the back to maximise contact with available bone.
This approach was developed to provide a fixed, full-arch restoration — often with the possibility of same-day provisional teeth — making it a well-established option for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. It is particularly relevant for patients who may have experienced some degree of bone loss, as the angled implants can utilise existing bone structure more efficiently.
To explore our broader advanced implant treatments, please visit our dedicated page.
Benefits
Suitable Candidates
What Is All-on-6?
All-on-6 follows a similar concept to All-on-4, but uses six implants per arch to support the implant supported full arch restoration. The additional two implants provide extra points of support, distributing biting forces across a wider area of the jawbone.
This approach may be recommended for patients with adequate bone density who could benefit from the additional stability. The extra implant points can help distribute load more evenly, which may be advantageous in certain clinical situations — particularly for patients with a stronger bite or those seeking maximum support for their restoration.
All-on-6 is one of several missing teeth treatment options available at our London practice.
Benefits
Suitable Candidates
Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6
Number of Implants and Support
All-on-4 uses four implants per arch, with the two posterior implants placed at an angle to maximise bone contact. All-on-6 uses six implants, providing two additional anchor points. The extra implants may offer more distributed support across the arch.
Stability and Load Distribution
Both systems are designed to provide a stable full-arch restoration. All-on-6 distributes biting forces across six points rather than four, which may reduce the load on each individual implant. However, All-on-4 has extensive clinical evidence supporting its long-term stability.
Bone Density Requirements
All-on-4 was specifically designed to work with patients who have experienced some bone loss, using angled implants to utilise available bone. All-on-6 generally requires more bone volume across a wider area of the jaw to accommodate the additional implants.
Longevity
Both approaches are designed to be long-lasting when maintained with good oral hygiene and regular dental care. Longevity depends on individual factors rather than the number of implants alone. Clinical outcomes for both are well-documented.
Cost
All-on-6 typically costs more than All-on-4 due to the additional implants and associated surgical time. However, the overall cost depends on individual clinical requirements, materials chosen, and any preparatory treatments needed.
Pros and Cons
All-on-4
Pros
Cons
All-on-6
Pros
Cons
Cost Comparison (UK)
The cost of full-arch implant treatment varies significantly depending on individual clinical requirements. The information below is provided as general guidance only.
All-on-4
All-on-4 generally involves fewer implants and a shorter surgical phase, which can result in a lower overall treatment cost compared to All-on-6.
Costs depend on the materials chosen for the prosthesis, any preparatory treatments required, and the complexity of your individual case.
Full-arch pricing is confirmed after consultation. Contact us for a personalised quote.
All-on-6
All-on-6 typically costs more due to the additional two implants, longer surgical time, and the associated laboratory and clinical work required.
As a reference, individual implants at our practice start from £2,950 per implant (including crown). Full-arch packages are priced differently — a personalised written quote is always provided following your consultation.
A personalised treatment plan with a written quote is provided following your consultation. For a full overview of our fees, please visit our treatment fees page.
Costs vary depending on individual clinical needs. No exact pricing claims are made here — a clinical assessment is required.
Which Option May Be Right for You?
The most appropriate option depends on your individual clinical situation. The following guidance is general in nature — a consultation is needed to determine your suitability.
Reduced Bone Density
All-on-4 may be more suitable for patients who have experienced some bone loss. The angled posterior implants are designed to utilise available bone more efficiently, potentially reducing the need for bone grafting procedures.
Long-Term Stability
For patients seeking maximum support, All-on-6 provides additional anchor points which may distribute biting forces more evenly. This can be particularly relevant for patients with a strong bite or those prioritising long-term structural support.
Affordability
All-on-4 generally involves fewer implants and a shorter surgical procedure, which can result in a lower overall treatment cost. Both options represent a significant commitment, and a personalised quote is provided following assessment.
Full-Mouth Rehabilitation
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 can replace all teeth with implants in one or both arches. Your dentist will recommend the approach that best suits your bone structure, oral health, and personal goals.
A clinical assessment including imaging is required to determine which approach is most suitable for your individual needs.
Experienced Implant Care
Full-arch implant treatment requires both surgical expertise and precise restorative planning. Our implant team combines decades of experience to deliver comprehensive care.
Dr. Sam Parsno
Implant Dentist
GDC: 72207
Over 30 years of implant experience. Trained at the Brånemark Centre, Royal College of Surgeons, and Karolinska Institute. Founder of the London College of Oral Implantology.
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Dr. Kamran Yazdi
Implant Dentist
GDC: 197926
Conservative dentistry with postgraduate degrees from UCL Eastman. Believes in preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.
View Full ProfileLondon Practice
Conveniently located in London, providing accessible dental implant solutions for patients across the city.
Full-Arch Expertise
Our implant team has experience in full-arch rehabilitation including both All-on-4 and All-on-6 approaches, tailored to each patient.
Personalised Planning
Every treatment plan is developed based on your clinical needs, bone structure, and personal goals. A CT scan and full assessment inform the recommendation.
GDC & CQC Registered
All treatments are provided by GDC-registered dentists at our CQC-registered practice, ensuring clinical standards at every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book Your Consultation
The best way to determine whether All-on-4 or All-on-6 is right for you is through a personalised consultation. Your dentist will assess your bone structure, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate approach — with no obligation to proceed.
This page is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute personalised dental advice. Individual diagnosis and treatment recommendations require a clinical examination by a qualified dental professional.