All-on-6 Dental Implants vs All-on-4: Which Is Better?

Both treatments replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth with a fixed bridge supported by dental implants. But what is the difference between them, and which option is right for you?

The truth is, there isn't a "better" treatment for everyone. The ideal solution depends on factors such as your bone quality, bite, oral health, and long-term treatment goals.

At Maypark Dental in Dublin, we use advanced digital planning to determine the most suitable treatment for every patient. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, we recommend the solution that will provide the best long-term outcome for your individual case

In this guide, we'll explain the key differences between All-on-4 and All-on-6, who each treatment is best suited for, and answer the most common questions patients ask.

Quick Answer: What's the Difference Between All-on-4 and All-on-6? The main difference is the number of implants supporting the bridge.

• All-on-4 uses four dental implants to support a full arch of fixed teeth.

• All-on-6 uses six dental implants, providing additional support and distributing biting forces over a larger area.

Both treatments provide fixed, natural-looking teeth that do not need to be removed like traditional dentures.

All-on-4 is one of the most widely used full-mouth implant techniques worldwide.

It replaces all the teeth in one jaw using:

• Four dental implants • A custom-made fixed bridge • Advanced digital planning • Carefully angled posterior implants to maximise available bone One of the major advantages of All-on-4 is that many patients can avoid extensive bone grafting.

The best treatment is the one that is most appropriate for your individual clinical situation.

There is no universal answer.

Some patients achieve excellent long-term outcomes with four implants, while others may benefit from six implants depending on:

• Bone quality • Bone volume • Bite forces • Jaw shape • Existing oral health • Smile design • Long-term restorative considerations At Maypark Dental, every case is digitally planned using 3D CBCT imaging, ensuring the recommended treatment is based on clinical evidence rather than a standard protocol.

All-on-4 may be suitable if you:

• Have multiple failing teeth • Wear loose dentures • Have significant tooth loss • Have reduced bone volume in the back of the jaw • Wish to avoid bone grafting where possible • Want fixed teeth supported by implants Many patients who have been told they are unsuitable for conventional implants may still be candidates for All-on-4.

All-on-6 may be recommended if you:

• Have sufficient bone to support six implants • Require additional support for your bridge • Have a stronger bite or increased chewing forces • Would benefit from wider distribution of implant support The decision is based on your clinical examination and digital treatment planning.

One of the most common questions we hear is:

"Are six implants better because there are more of them?" Not necessarily.

Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 have excellent long-term success rates when:

• Treatment is carefully planned • Implants are placed correctly • Patients maintain good oral hygiene • Regular maintenance appointments are attended The number of implants alone does not determine success. Careful diagnosis, high-quality surgery, and ongoing maintenance are equally important.

From a patient's perspective, there is very little difference in day-to-day comfort once treatment is complete.

Both treatments provide: • Fixed teeth • Improved chewing ability • Natural speech • Enhanced confidence • Stable, secure restorations Most patients adapt quickly and report a significant improvement in their quality of life compared with removable dentures.

Many suitable patients undergoing either All-on-4 or All-on-6 treatment can receive a temporary fixed bridge on the day of surgery.

This allows patients to leave the practice with fixed teeth while their implants heal.

Not every patient is suitable for immediate loading, and this will be discussed during your consultation.

The cost of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case, the materials used, and your individual treatment plan.

At Maypark Dental:

• All-on-4 treatment starts from €6,500 per arch. • Flexible payment plans are available (subject to approval). • A personalised quotation is provided following your consultation. During your assessment, we'll explain all costs clearly so you can make an informed decision.

Choosing the right clinic is just as important as choosing the right treatment.

Patients from across Ireland travel to Maypark Dental because we provide:

• Advanced digital treatment planning • 3D CBCT imaging • Intraoral digital scanning • High-quality implant restorations • Comprehensive aftercare • Flexible payment plans • Transparent treatment planning Most importantly, the same experienced implant dentist carries out your consultation, surgery, and final bridge, providing continuity of care throughout your smile transformation.

Our patients visit us from:

• Dublin • Cork • Galway • Limerick • Waterford • Wexford • Meath • Kildare • Wicklow • Clare • Donegal • Sligo Many tell us they chose Maypark Dental after researching implant providers across Ireland and seeing our real patient results.

Nothing explains the life-changing impact of full-mouth dental implants better than hearing directly from our patients.

Including genuine patient photographs helps prospective patients understand what can be achieved with carefully planned implant treatment and builds trust through real clinical outcomes.

No. The best option depends on your individual bone structure, oral health, and treatment goals. Both techniques are predictable when appropriately planned.

Treatment planning is completed before surgery, so the number of implants is determined based on your clinical needs. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option from the outset.

Many All-on-4 patients avoid bone grafting because the angled posterior implants maximise existing bone. Whether grafting is required depends on your individual anatomy.

Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 provide fixed teeth designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

As fewer implants are used, All-on-4 is generally the more cost-effective option. Your personalised treatment plan will outline all costs clearly.

The only way to determine the most suitable option is through a comprehensive consultation, examination, and 3D CBCT scan.

If you're considering full-mouth dental implants in Ireland, the team at Maypark Dental is here to help you make the right decision.

Using advanced digital planning and a personalised approach, we'll assess your oral health, explain your options, and recommend the treatment best suited to your needs.

Whether All-on-4 or All-on-6 is the right solution, you'll receive care from the same experienced implant dentist throughout your entire journey—from consultation to your final smile.

With treatment starting from €6,500 per arch and flexible payment plans available, restoring your smile may be more achievable than you think.

Contact Maypark Dental today to arrange your consultation and begin your smile transformation.