All-on-4
A full arch on four implants, with the back two angled to reach denser bone. Often the answer for patients who have been told they don't have enough bone.
Based in Brentwood & Burbank · Serving Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Glendale & PasadenaHow it works
Two implants go straight in at the front of the jaw, where bone tends to last longest. The two in back are tilted so they anchor in denser bone further forward. In the upper jaw that keeps them clear of the sinus. In the lower jaw it keeps them away from the nerve.
Avoiding bone grafts
When teeth are lost, the jaw bone slowly shrinks. Traditional implants would need grafting to rebuild it, which can add six months or more. The angled implants in All-on-4 use the bone that's still there, so many patients go from consultation to fixed teeth without a graft.
Leaving dentures behind
Most of our All-on-4 patients have worn a denture for years. Moving to a fixed arch means no adhesive, no plate covering the roof of the mouth, and no taking teeth out at night. Taste and bite strength come back in a way a denture can't match.
Good candidates
You may be a good fit for All-on-4 if any of these sound familiar. The only way to know for sure is a scan and an exam at our Brentwood or Burbank office.
- You've worn a full or partial denture for several years
- You've been told you don't have enough bone for implants
- You'd like to avoid bone grafting if possible
- You want fixed teeth the same day as surgery
What to expect
- First visit
Consultation
A private visit with your doctor. We take a 3D CBCT scan, photos and a digital impression, then talk through what you want your smile to look like.
- Before surgery
Planning
Your doctor places every implant on the scan, checks bone depth and nerve position, and designs the shape, length and shade of your teeth.
- Surgery day
Surgery day
Teeth that can't be saved are removed and the implants are placed, with sedation if you prefer. A fixed temporary arch is attached before you leave.
- 3 to 6 months
Healing
Over the next three to six months the implants fuse to the bone. You eat softer foods and come in for short check-ins.
- Final fitting
Final arch
We scan again and make your permanent zirconia bridge, then fit and fine-tune it. Cleanings and checkups continue with the same office.
All-on-4 next to the alternatives
| All-on-6 | All-on-4 | All-on-X | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implants per arch | 6 | 4 | Set by your scan |
| Bone needed | Moderate to healthy | Works with less | Varies |
| Grafting | Sometimes | Often avoided | Case by case |
| Bridge support | Along the full arch | Front and angled back | Planned to the case |
| Best for | Most full arch patients | Long-term denture wearers, bone loss | Complex bone or bite |
About All-on-4
Are four implants enough?
For most people with limited bone, yes. The angled back implants are what make four work. If your scan shows four won't be enough, your doctor will recommend All-on-6 or All-on-X instead.
Will I need a bone graft?
Many All-on-4 patients don't. Your 3D scan at the consultation shows exactly how much bone you have.
Can I switch from my denture?
Yes. In many cases we can use your current denture as a reference for tooth position and shade.
How long will it last?
With good home care and regular cleanings, implants can last decades. The bridge may need maintenance over time.