All-on-4 vs All-on-6 Implants: Which Is Better in Manhattan?
Quick Answer
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are excellent full-arch implant options with success rates above 95%. All-on-4 uses 4 implants per arch and is ideal for patients with limited bone, while All-on-6 uses 6 implants for extra support and may be better for patients with strong bite forces. Your 3D CBCT scan at Centre Dental Manhattan will determine which approach is optimal for your jaw.
Understanding All-on-4 and All-on-6 in Manhattan
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are same-day full-arch implant techniques that replace all the teeth in an arch with a fixed, non-removable prosthesis supported by implants. The primary difference is the number of implant fixtures used.
All-on-4: The Original Approach
- 4 implants per arch — 2 straight anterior + 2 angled posterior at 30-45°
- Designed for limited bone — Angled implants avoid the sinus and nerve canal
- Fewer implants = less invasive surgery — Shorter procedure time
- Well-documented success — 20+ years of clinical research backing
- Lower cost — Fewer implants and components needed
All-on-6: Enhanced Support
- 6 implants per arch — Better force distribution across the jawbone
- Added redundancy — If one implant fails, five others maintain support
- Ideal for strong biters — Patients who grind or have heavy bite force
- Supports longer bridges — Can extend to include more posterior teeth
- Requires more bone — May need additional bone volume in the posterior
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | All-on-4 | All-on-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Implants per arch | 4 | 6 |
| Bone requirement | Lower | Higher |
| Surgery time | Shorter | Slightly longer |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Force distribution | Good | Excellent |
| Success rate | 95-98% | 95-98% |
Which Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your individual anatomy and needs. At Centre Dental Manhattan, we use 3D CBCT imaging and digital treatment planning to determine the ideal number of implants for your specific jawbone structure. Sometimes we recommend 5 implants — there's no rule that it must be exactly 4 or 6.
Related Questions
All-on-4 uses 4 implants per arch with two angled posterior implants, while All-on-6 uses 6 implants for additional support. All-on-6 distributes biting force across more points, which may benefit patients with stronger bite forces.
Yes, All-on-6 typically costs more due to the additional implants and components. However, the difference may be offset by increased long-term durability, especially for patients with high bite forces.
Both options have excellent long-term success rates exceeding 95%. With proper care, either can last 20+ years. All-on-6 may offer slightly more redundancy since if one implant fails, five others still support the prosthesis.
All-on-6 generally requires more available bone than All-on-4. All-on-4 was specifically designed to work with limited bone by using angled posterior implants. Your CBCT scan will determine which approach is best for your anatomy.
We use 3D CBCT imaging to evaluate bone density, volume, and anatomy. We consider bite force, overall health, and aesthetic goals to recommend the optimal number of implants for your specific situation.
Find Your Best Option — Free Consultation
Our Manhattan specialists will evaluate your jaw with 3D imaging and recommend the ideal approach for your smile.
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