All-on-4 is already a well-known solution for patients with complete edentulism or those who have lost most of their teeth. But when there is sufficient bone volume — for wider load distribution and additional support — All-on-6 is sometimes preferred. In this article we explain the difference between the two systems, the advantages of All-on-6, and the ideal candidate profile.
What is an All-on-6 implant?
All-on-6 is a treatment concept that places 6 implants in one jaw and builds a fixed bridge prosthesis on top. The main difference from All-on-4 is the number of implants: two additional support points distribute the load across a wider area along the jaw. This strengthens the construction by distributing the load over a wider area through more support points (provided there is sufficient bone volume).
Difference between All-on-4 and All-on-6
Both systems allow a temporary prosthesis to be fitted the same day. The main difference lies in load distribution and suitability for bone condition:
Load distribution comparison
All-on-4 (4 supports)
All-on-6 (6 supports)
More support points = less load per implant = wider, more balanced load distribution
| Feature | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of implants | 4 | 6 |
| Load distribution | Medium | Wider |
| Load per implant | Medium | Less |
| Bone requirement | Less (tilted implants use existing bone) | More (6 implants require sufficient bone) |
| Likelihood of bone grafting | Less (graft-avoidance protocol) | Sometimes higher (especially in the posterior upper jaw) |
| Same-day temporary prosthesis | Yes | Yes |
| Treatment duration | 3–6 months | 3–6 months |
Advantages of All-on-6
- More support points reduce the load on each implant — long-term stability increases
- When there is sufficient bone volume, provides additional support and wider load distribution
- Additional support points in the posterior region — more balanced prosthesis support when bone is sufficient
- Same-day temporary fixed prosthesis — the patient receives teeth on the day of the procedure
Who is All-on-6 suitable for?
All-on-6 may be preferred over All-on-4 in the following cases:
- 1Patients with sufficient bone volume in the jaw for 6 implants
- 2People with adequate bone volume who want maximum support and load distribution
- 3Patients who prioritise maximum long-term stability
- 4Those planning treatment as a complete solution — with minimum future intervention
The choice between All-on-4 and All-on-6 is made based on individual examination — bone volume, density, and the patient's overall health are taken into account.
Treatment process
All-on-6 treatment goes through the same stages as All-on-4: 3D CBCT planning → placement of 6 implants under local anaesthesia → same-day temporary prosthesis → 3–6 months osseointegration → permanent zirconia prosthesis. The difference is only in the number of implants, and therefore in load distribution.
Is the All-on-6 implant system right for you in Baku? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bakhtiyar — the correct choice between All-on-4 and All-on-6 is made based on 3D diagnostics.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice. Treatment suitability must always be based on medical examination.