About All on 4
All on 4 is a way of replacing every tooth in the upper or lower jaw with one fixed bridge supported by four implants. Here's how it works, who it suits and what to expect.
The essentials at a glance
Fixed, not removable
The bridge is screwed to the implants. Only your dentist removes it, for maintenance.
Teeth on surgery day
In most cases a fixed temporary bridge is fitted on the day your implants are placed.
Two or three trips
Consultation and scan can happen from home; most patients visit Hobart two or three times.
10-year guarantee*
On implants and bridge, subject to regular check-ups and our terms.
Four implants, one bridge
Two implants are placed towards the front of the jaw and two further back. The back implants are angled so they can use the bone that is available, avoiding the sinuses in the upper jaw and the nerve in the lower jaw. This often reduces or avoids the need for bone grafting.
Because the bridge joins all four implants together, biting forces are shared across them. That's what allows a fixed temporary bridge to be attached soon after surgery while the implants heal into the bone.
The bridge replaces both the teeth and some of the gum, using pink gum-coloured material. In dental terms this is an FP3 design.
Compare with 3-On-6™ →Who All on 4 may suit
All on 4 may be worth considering if you:
- Have several failing, loose or broken teeth in the same jaw
- Have lost most of your teeth and are wearing a denture you're not happy with
- Have advanced gum disease where the remaining teeth can't be saved
- Have been told you don't have enough bone for conventional implants
Your health matters more than your age. We'll review your medical history and medications. Uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, some bone medications and previous radiotherapy to the jaws can all affect healing and need to be discussed first.
Your free consultation includes
- An examination and discussion of your goals
- A CBCT scan referral, or review of your existing scan
- An explanation of All on 4, 3-On-6™ and other options
- A written treatment plan and quote
- Information on payment plans and super release
When 3-On-6™ may suit better
If you have enough bone and gum, we may suggest 3-On-6™ instead: six or more implants supporting three separate bridges, without pink gum-coloured material. It costs more, but can be cleaned like natural teeth and serviced one section at a time.
Not everyone is suitable. Your CBCT scan tells us which approach is likely to be more predictable for you.
About 3-On-6™Bridge options
Fixed temporary bridge
Fitted at the end of your surgery visit so you leave with fixed teeth. Lightweight acrylic, designed to be worn during healing while you eat a soft diet.
Acrylic final bridge
Acrylic teeth on a strong framework. Lower cost and easier to repair, but acrylic wears and stains more over time and teeth may need replacing in future.
PricingZirconia final bridge
A high-strength ceramic that resists wear and staining. Costs more, and while chips are uncommon they can be harder to repair than acrylic.
PricingYour All on 4 timeline
Most patients complete treatment over about three months, with two or three visits to Hobart.
Book NowConsultation
In person in Hobart or by telehealth. We talk through your history, goals and options.
CBCT scan
A 3D scan at our referral radiology clinic or one near you. We use it to plan implant positions.
Treatment plan & payment
A written plan and quote. Payment is arranged before your surgery date.
Day 1 — impressions
Records and impressions are taken so your temporary bridge can be prepared.
Day 2 — surgery
Remaining teeth are removed where needed, implants placed and your fixed temporary bridge fitted.
Healing reviews
We check your healing and adjust your bite. Interstate patients can do some reviews by telehealth.
Final bridge
Around three months after surgery your final acrylic or zirconia bridge is fitted.
Ongoing maintenance
Regular hygiene visits and reviews, as required by your guarantee.
Preparing for your treatment
- Give us a full list of your medications and supplements, including blood thinners
- Stop smoking as early as possible — it increases the risk of implant problems
- If you're having sedation, arrange for an adult to drive you home
- Stock up on soft foods for the first few weeks
- Plan a few quiet days to rest after surgery
- Follow any pre-operative instructions we give you, including antibiotics or mouthwash
What you should know
"I'm too old for implants."
There's no fixed upper age limit. Your general health, bone and healing ability matter more than the number of birthdays.
"Once they're in, I'm done."
Implant bridges need daily cleaning and regular professional maintenance. Without it, gum and bone problems around implants can develop.
"Everyone will notice."
Your teeth are designed for your face and smile. With All on 4 the pink material can show if you have a high smile line — something we discuss before you decide.
Risks
Full-arch treatment is major surgery. Swelling, bruising and discomfort are expected. Less common risks include infection, nerve injury causing altered sensation, sinus complications, implant failure, and fracture of the temporary or final bridge. We'll go through how these apply to you.
Had implants elsewhere?
Contact a dentist if you notice:
- Bleeding, pus or swelling around implants
- A bridge that moves or clicks
- Pain when biting
- A persistent bad taste or smell
- Chipped or broken teeth on the bridge
Before and after
Implant treatment · Treated by Dr Clark Eom
Implant treatment · Treated by Dr Clark Eom
Implant treatment · Treated by Dr Clark Eom
Photographs show actual patients of Dr Clark Eom, published with consent and without digital alteration other than cropping. Individual results vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks — before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Book your free consultation
Implant and full-arch consultations are free (normally $150)* — in person at 1 Warneford St or by telehealth.
Hobart
1 Warneford St, Hobart TAS 7000
Get directions
03 6200 8800
reception@napoldental.com.au
| Monday – Friday | To confirm |
| Saturday | To confirm |
| Sunday & public holidays | To confirm |
Parking on Warneford St or at the rear of the practice.