All-on-4 is a full-arch dental implant solution that replaces all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw — using just four titanium implants. It is designed for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth and want a fixed, permanent alternative to dentures.
The name “All-on-4” refers to the full arch of replacement teeth being supported “all on” just “4” implants.
How Does All-on-4 Work?
All-on-4 uses a specific implant placement technique developed by Nobel Biocare:
- Two implants are placed vertically at the front of the jaw
- Two implants are placed at 45° angles at the rear of the jaw — this bypasses areas of poor bone density that would otherwise require bone grafting
- A full-arch bridge (12–14 replacement teeth) is attached to these four implants
The angled rear implants are the key innovation — they engage denser bone further back in the jaw without the need for sinus lifts or bone grafts that would otherwise be required.
Who is All-on-4 For?
All-on-4 is designed for patients who:
- Have lost all or most teeth in one or both jaws
- Currently wear a full or partial denture that is uncomfortable or limits their diet
- Have been told they need multiple extractions and want to replace all teeth at once
- Have experienced significant bone loss that makes conventional implants difficult without grafting
- Are non-smokers or light smokers in good general health (smoking significantly reduces implant success rates)
The All-on-4 Procedure Step by Step
Step 1: Consultation & CT Scan
A full 3D CT scan of your jaw is taken to assess bone density, volume, and the precise positions of nerves and sinus cavities. Your treatment plan is designed digitally before any surgery begins.
Step 2: Extractions (if needed)
Any remaining failing teeth are extracted. In many clinics, this is done at the same appointment as implant placement.
Step 3: Implant Placement
Under sedation or local anaesthetic, the four titanium implants are placed in the planned positions. The procedure takes 2–4 hours per jaw.
Step 4: Temporary Teeth (Same Day)
In most cases, a set of temporary fixed teeth is attached to the implants on the same day (“immediate loading”). You leave the clinic with a full set of fixed teeth — though they are not the final prosthesis.
Step 5: Osseointegration (3–6 Months)
The implants fuse with the jawbone over 3–6 months. During this time you eat a soft diet and the temporary teeth do their job.
Step 6: Final Arch Fitting
Once the implants have fully integrated, the final permanent bridge — usually zirconia — is fitted. This is your permanent set of fixed teeth.
All-on-4 Cost: UK vs Abroad
| Location | All-on-4 per jaw | Full mouth (2 jaws) |
|---|---|---|
| UK (private) | £10,000–£15,000 | £20,000–£30,000 |
| Dubai (DHA-licensed) | £4,300–£6,500 | £8,500–£13,000 |
| Turkey (Istanbul) | £3,500–£5,500 | £7,000–£11,000 |
| India (JCI clinics) | £2,500–£4,000 | £5,000–£8,000 |
How Long Does All-on-4 Last?
The titanium implants themselves are designed to be permanent — long-term studies (10–20 years) show implant survival rates above 94% for All-on-4. The prosthetic bridge (the teeth) typically needs replacement or relining every 10–15 years due to normal wear.
What are the Risks?
- Implant failure: Occurs in approximately 3–5% of cases; more common in smokers and those with uncontrolled diabetes
- Infection: Managed with antibiotics; proper oral hygiene reduces risk significantly
- Nerve sensitivity: Temporary tingling or numbness in the lower jaw, usually resolving within weeks
- Bridge fracture: Rare with zirconia, but temporary acrylic bridges can chip or crack
Compare All-on-4 Prices — Turkey, Dubai & India
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the All-on-4 dental procedure?
All-on-4 is a full-arch implant technique where a complete set of upper or lower replacement teeth is supported on four titanium implants. Two implants are placed vertically at the front and two at a 45-degree angle at the rear, allowing the full arch to be fitted without bone grafting in most cases.
Is All-on-4 permanent?
The titanium implants are permanent. The prosthetic bridge (the visible teeth) typically lasts 10–15 years before needing replacement or relining. With proper care, many patients have their All-on-4 for 20+ years.
How much does All-on-4 cost abroad?
All-on-4 per jaw costs £3,500–£5,500 in Turkey, £4,300–£6,500 in Dubai, and £2,500–£4,000 in India — compared to £10,000–£15,000 per jaw privately in the UK. Most patients save £5,000–£15,000 by travelling abroad.