All-on-6®

Understanding All-on-6®: A modern approach to full-arch replacement

All-on-6® is a full-arch rehabilitation technique that secures a complete set of prosthetic teeth to six dental implants in a single jaw. Unlike removable dentures, this method creates a fixed restoration that functions and feels more like natural teeth. Because the prosthesis is anchored to implant fixtures embedded in the jawbone, patients regain greater chewing efficiency, clearer speech, and a more stable bite.

The term emphasizes the use of six implants per arch as a predictable balance between support and surgical simplicity. Strategically placed implants distribute forces across a wider area of bone, which can improve long-term stability for the restoration. All-on-6® is designed not only to restore appearance but to reestablish oral function and comfort for patients who have lost many or all of their teeth.

For people who have struggled with loose or uncomfortable dentures, All-on-6® offers an alternative that eliminates adhesives and daily removal. The prosthetic teeth are cared for much like natural teeth—routine brushing, flossing around the implant-supported bridge, and professional maintenance visits—making everyday life simpler and more secure.

Why clinicians choose six implants: biomechanical and clinical benefits

Choosing six implants for a full-arch restoration reflects a practical compromise between support, redundancy, and surgical logistics. More implants provide additional anchorage points and help spread biting forces across the jaw. That distribution reduces stress on any single implant and can enhance the longevity of the restoration when compared with fewer fixation points.

Another advantage is flexibility in implant positioning. With six fixtures, clinicians have more options to accommodate variations in bone density and anatomy, allowing for optimal angles and depths without necessarily resorting to extensive bone grafting. This can be especially helpful in cases where bone volume is limited but predictable implant anchorage is still achievable.

Because the system creates a rigid, full-arch framework, prosthetic design can prioritize both function and aesthetics. A properly planned All-on-6® restoration supports natural-looking teeth that align with the patient’s facial proportions, while the structural support helps prevent long-term bone resorption that can accompany complete tooth loss.

The patient journey: what to expect before, during, and after treatment

Treatment begins with a detailed evaluation that includes a clinical exam, digital imaging, and a discussion of health history and goals. Cone-beam CT scans and intraoral scans play a key role in planning implant placement and designing the final prosthesis. This planning phase enables predictable implant positioning and helps the clinician anticipate any need for bone augmentation.

On the day of surgery, implants are placed into predetermined positions in the jaw. In many cases, a provisional prosthesis can be attached the same day, restoring immediate function and appearance while the implants integrate with the bone. After a healing period—during which the implants osseointegrate and the tissues recover—the provisional is typically replaced with a definitive prosthesis that is sculpted for long-term comfort and appearance.

Recovery focuses on soft-tissue healing and gradual adaptation to the new prosthesis. Patients receive clear instructions for oral hygiene, diet progression, and activity limitations during the initial weeks. Regular follow-up visits monitor implant integration and prosthetic fit, and ongoing professional maintenance helps preserve both implant health and the cosmetic result.

Long-term care and maintaining implant health

Long-term success with All-on-6® depends on a combination of professional maintenance and consistent home care. Although the prosthetic arch is fixed, plaque and bacterial biofilm can still accumulate around implant components. Routine dental cleanings tailored to implants, along with daily brushing and targeted interdental cleaning, are essential to protect peri-implant tissues and preserve bone support.

Patients are encouraged to maintain regular checkups where clinicians evaluate the condition of the implants, soft tissues, and prosthetic components. Early identification of wear, loosening, or tissue change allows timely intervention and can prevent more significant complications. Because implants respond differently than natural teeth, clinicians use specialized instruments and protocols during maintenance visits.

Lifestyle choices also influence outcomes. Good overall health, smoking cessation, and control of systemic conditions such as diabetes contribute to better healing and implant longevity. When patients and clinicians work together with a consistent recall schedule, All-on-6® restorations can provide durable, predictable function for many years.

Who benefits from All-on-6® and how to determine candidacy

All-on-6® is often recommended for people who have lost most or all teeth in an arch, who experience instability with conventional dentures, or who want a fixed, low-maintenance solution. Candidacy is determined through a comprehensive assessment that considers bone volume and density, medical history, oral health, and aesthetic goals. The clinician evaluates whether six implants can be placed predictably and whether the patient can commit to the necessary maintenance.

Some patients who were previously told they were not candidates for implants due to limited bone can now be treated with modern planning techniques and implant designs that sometimes reduce the need for extensive grafting. Still, every case is unique, and careful imaging and planning are necessary to identify the safest, most effective approach for each individual.

Ultimately, deciding on All-on-6® involves weighing the benefits of a fixed, full-arch restoration against the surgical and restorative steps required. A consultation with a skilled implant team will clarify the expected outcomes, the timeline for treatment, and the maintenance needed to protect the investment in oral health.

At Chroma Dental, our approach to full-arch rehabilitation combines modern imaging, restorative expertise, and a patient-centered philosophy to help people explore whether All-on-6® is an appropriate solution for their needs. If you would like more information about this treatment or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us for more information.