All-on-4®

Restore a full, natural-feeling smile in a single treatment day

All-on-4® is a streamlined approach to full-arch tooth replacement that delivers immediate, functional results. Rather than replacing each missing tooth with an individual implant, this method uses four strategically placed dental implants to support a whole arch of prosthetic teeth. The procedure is designed so patients leave the office the same day with a provisional fixed bridge that looks and functions like natural teeth.

This option is especially appealing for adults who have lost most or all of their teeth, or for those whose remaining teeth cannot be saved. Because the prosthesis is secured to implants, patients avoid many of the limitations of removable dentures—improved chewing ability, clearer speech, and greater day-to-day confidence are common outcomes. The initial set of teeth serves during healing and is later replaced by a precisely engineered final restoration.

The single-day turnaround doesn’t mean corners are cut. Careful planning, often supported by digital imaging and 3D treatment planning, ensures implants are positioned for optimal support, aesthetics, and long-term stability. Patients should expect a coordinated process that balances efficiency with meticulous surgical and restorative technique.

How the All-on-4® method is planned and performed

Every successful All-on-4® treatment begins with a thorough diagnostic phase. A complete oral exam, panoramic x-rays, and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans are used to evaluate bone volume, anatomy, and occlusion. This information guides implant positioning so implants can anchor the prosthesis predictably, frequently avoiding bone grafting through tilted posterior implants when appropriate.

On the day of surgery, existing non-restorable teeth are removed and four implants are placed into the jawbone—two near the front and two angled toward the back for greater support. Precise implant placement minimizes stress on the bone and maximizes the prosthesis’ durability. A temporary, fixed prosthesis is attached to the implants that same day, allowing immediate function while osseointegration (the natural bonding of bone to implant) occurs.

Throughout treatment, the restorative plan focuses on biomechanics and aesthetics. The provisional prosthesis is designed to maintain proper bite relationships and facial proportions while the tissues heal. Once osseointegration is complete and healing is confirmed, a final, custom-crafted prosthesis is fabricated to deliver the best combination of comfort, strength, and lifelike appearance.

Functional and lifestyle advantages patients notice most

One of the most tangible benefits of an implant-supported full-arch restoration is a notable improvement in chewing efficiency. Foods that were previously difficult or uncomfortable to eat with removable dentures become easier to enjoy again. This can translate to better nutrition and a more varied diet, supporting overall health and well-being.

Speech and self-confidence typically improve as well. Fixed prostheses resist the slipping and clicking that can occur with dentures, so patients often experience clearer enunciation and fewer concerns about their teeth during social interactions. Because the restoration is anchored to implants, patients can smile, speak, and laugh with less worry about stability.

From a care standpoint, long-term maintenance is straightforward. Regular dental visits, professional cleanings, and consistent at-home oral hygiene help preserve both the implants and the prosthesis. With proper care and periodic checkups, an implant-retained arch can offer lasting, reliable function.

What to expect during recovery and the months that follow

Recovery after the All-on-4® procedure follows a predictable timeline. In the first few days, patients commonly experience mild to moderate swelling and some discomfort that is manageable with prescribed or recommended medications. Soft foods are generally advised during the initial healing period to avoid placing undue force on the new implants and provisional prosthesis.

Within a few weeks, many patients find they can return to a normal routine and begin to eat more comfortably. Bone integration is an ongoing process that typically takes several months; during that time the provisional prosthesis protects the surgical sites and maintains function. Follow-up appointments monitor healing, check implant stability, and refine the fit of the restoration as needed.

When the clinician confirms successful integration, the provisional arch is replaced with a final restoration custom-designed for durability and esthetics. The final prosthesis is fabricated to match facial contours, lip support, and tooth proportions, achieving a result that harmonizes with the patient’s smile goals.

Who is a good candidate and how to prepare for treatment

Good candidates for All-on-4® are adults missing most or all teeth in an arch, or those with failing dentition who prefer a fixed solution. Adequate general health, realistic expectations, and a commitment to oral hygiene are important factors. Smoking, uncontrolled systemic conditions, and untreated periodontal disease can affect candidacy, so these issues are evaluated and managed before treatment.

Patients with reduced bone volume are often still eligible for this approach because of the strategic implant angles and posterior positioning that maximize available bone. When bone deficiencies are significant, the treatment team will discuss alternatives or preparatory procedures to create a stable foundation for implants. A comprehensive consultation provides a clear picture of the most suitable path forward.

Preparation typically involves preoperative imaging, a review of medical history, and a discussion about the provisional and final restorative phases. Clear communication about lifestyle, aesthetic goals, and expectations helps the dental team design a personalized plan that aligns clinical feasibility with the patient’s desired outcome.

All-on-4® offers a streamlined, evidence-based route to restoring an entire dental arch with predictable function and improved quality of life. At Chroma Dental, our approach combines modern imaging, careful surgical planning, and restorative expertise to deliver results that prioritize comfort, longevity, and a natural appearance. If you would like to learn more about whether All-on-4® is right for you, please contact us for more information.

¹All-on-4® is a registered trademark of Nobel Biocare.