The All-on-6 dental implant procedure is similar to the All-on-4 approach but involves placing six implants in each arch (upper or lower) to support a full set of prosthetic teeth. The additional implants provide more support, stability, and durability, especially for patients who may need more reinforcement due to bone density or other factors.

What is All-on-6?

The All-on-6 technique involves the strategic placement of six dental implants in the upper or lower jaw to anchor a full-arch fixed prosthesis. These implants act as strong foundations for a permanent denture that looks and functions like natural teeth. The additional two implants compared to the All-on-4 system offer greater stability and are often used when patients have enough jawbone structure to support the extra implants.

Advantages of All-on-6 Over All-on-4

1. Increased Stability: The six implants distribute bite forces more evenly, offering greater strength and support for the prosthetic teeth. This can be especially beneficial for patients with higher bite pressure or who want added durability.
2. Better for Jawbone Support: All-on-6 implants help preserve more jawbone by stimulating a larger area of the bone, which can slow down the natural bone loss that occurs after tooth loss.
3. Improved Aesthetic and Functional Outcomes: The additional implants provide more support, which can allow for a more natural-looking and stable prosthesis. Patients often report improved chewing efficiency and overall comfort.
4. Longevity: Because of the increased number of implants, the system can last longer, as the force distribution on each implant is reduced.

3. Implant Placement Surgery

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia is used to ensure patient comfort.
• Implant Placement: Six implants are placed in the jawbone. The dentist typically positions four implants toward the front of the jaw, where the bone is denser, and two implants in the back to provide extra support. The back implants may be placed at an angle to maximize bone contact.
• Temporary Prosthesis: Just like with the All-on-4, a temporary fixed prosthesis is placed on the same day, allowing the patient to leave the clinic with functional teeth.

4. Healing and Osseointegration

• Healing Time: Over the next 3-6 months, the implants will fuse with the jawbone through osseointegration. During this time, the patient will wear the temporary prosthesis and follow specific guidelines to protect the implants and ensure proper healing.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Periodic visits are required to monitor healing and adjust the temporary prosthesis if necessary.

5. Final Prosthesis Placement

• After the osseointegration process is complete, impressions or scans are taken to create the final custom-made prosthesis.
• Permanent Prosthesis: The permanent prosthesis, made of durable materials such as zirconia or acrylic, is attached to the six implants, providing the patient with a fully restored, natural-looking set of teeth.

6. Post-Care and Maintenance

• Oral Hygiene: Patients receive instructions on how to maintain their implants and prosthetics. Good oral hygiene is critical to prevent infections and ensure the longevity of the implants.
• Regular Check-ups: Routine dental visits help monitor the condition of the implants and surrounding gum tissue.

Who is a Good Candidate for All-on-6?

• Patients with Enough Bone Density: All-on-6 is ideal for those who have enough jawbone to support six implants. However, bone grafting may be necessary if the bone density is insufficient.
• Full Arch Replacement: It’s designed for patients who are edentulous (without teeth) or have severely damaged teeth that need replacement.
• Desire for Stability: Patients seeking a more robust and stable solution compared to traditional dentures or even the All-on-4 method may benefit from the additional implants.

Benefits of All-on-6

1. Natural-Looking and Stable Prosthesis: The prosthetic teeth are securely fixed, offering a highly natural look and feel.
2. Better Force Distribution: Six implants spread the bite forces more evenly, reducing stress on each individual implant.
3. Durability: The All-on-6 method offers greater longevity and durability, particularly for patients with higher bite pressures.
4. Jawbone Preservation: The more implants there are, the more stimulation the jawbone receives, which helps prevent bone loss.

The All-on-6 method provides an effective, long-lasting solution for those seeking a full arch dental restoration, with improved stability and function. It’s an excellent choice for patients looking for a robust alternative to traditional dentures or partial implants.