All-on-6 vs All-on-4 Implants: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

For patients with many missing or failing teeth, full-arch dental implants offer a life-changing alternative to traditional dentures. Two of the most popular approaches are All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants, both designed to support a full set of replacement teeth on a small number of implants.

But what’s the difference between All-on-4 vs All-on-6 implants, and how do you know which option may be right for you?

At Silver State Smiles in the Las Vegas area, we help patients understand these choices so they can feel confident in their treatment plan.

What Are All-on-4 and All-on-6 Implants?

Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are full-arch implant solutions. Instead of replacing each missing tooth with its own implant, a fixed bridge is anchored to several strategically placed implants in the jaw.

• All-on-4 uses four implants to support a full arch (upper or lower).
• All-on-6 uses six implants to support that same arch.

The additional implants in an All-on-6 approach can provide more points of support and may distribute chewing forces more evenly, depending on jawbone quality and anatomy.

Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6

From a patient’s perspective, both options can offer a stable, natural-looking smile that feels more secure than removable dentures. However, there are some important distinctions:

• Number of implants: All-on-4 uses fewer implants, which may be suitable for patients with limited bone. All-on-6 adds two more, which can improve stability in some cases.
• Bone distribution: With six implants, the chewing load can be spread across more points, potentially enhancing long-term support for the bridge.
• Surgical complexity: All-on-6 may require more available bone and slightly longer procedure time. Your dentist will assess whether your jaw can accommodate the additional implants.

Your specific benefits will depend on your bone structure, bite, and overall oral health.

Potential Benefits of All-on-6 Implants

For some patients, All-on-6 implants offer advantages such as:

• Increased stability due to more implant anchors.
• Greater support for patients with stronger bone density.
• Potentially improved load distribution during chewing.

However, this doesn’t mean All-on-6 is automatically better for everyone. If your jawbone is limited or you’re a candidate for fewer implants, an All-on-4 approach may provide excellent long-term function with less surgical intervention.

When All-on-4 May Be the Better Choice

An All-on-4 treatment plan may be recommended when:

• Bone volume is reduced, especially in the back of the jaw.
• You’re looking to minimize additional procedures like bone grafting.
• A simpler, more streamlined surgery is preferred and still clinically appropriate.

Thanks to strategic implant angling, All-on-4 can often make the most of available bone and avoid certain anatomical structures, reducing the need for complex grafting.

How We Help You Choose at Silver State Smiles

Because every mouth is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all answer in the All-on-4 vs All-on-6 conversation. At Silver State Smiles, we:

• Take detailed imaging to assess bone density and anatomy.
• Review your medical and dental history.
• Talk through your goals, budget, and timeline.
• Explain the pros and cons of each approach in clear, honest language.

Together, we design a plan that prioritizes comfort, function, and long-term oral health, whether that involves four implants, six implants, or another solution entirely.

Considering Full-Arch Dental Implants in Las Vegas?

Our team can help you understand whether All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants may be right for you.
👉 Start the conversation by scheduling an appointment today.