All-on-4, All-on-6, and why not All-on-8 while we’re at it? As soon as you start looking into getting fixed teeth, these terms pop up everywhere, and you end up thinking you should aim for the highest number to get the best results. That’s a red herring. The right choice isn’t the one that looks the most impressive in the brochure—it’s the one that’s right for your jaw.
At Sublime Specialist Clinic, this is the first real conversation we have with each patient. That’s how we make decisions—without jargon and without pressuring you to spend money.
The Difference, Without the Marketing
All the teeth in a jaw are replaced with a fixed bridge anchored to implants. The All-on-4 method uses four anchor points, and the All-on-6 method uses six. Now you know the basics.
So why two techniques? Because no two jaws are alike. Adding implants changes the way chewing force is distributed. For some people, it makes a real difference. For others, it doesn’t change a thing.
Quick Comparison
| All-on-4 | All-on-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of implants | 4 per jaw | 6 per jaw |
| Required bone volume | Moderate | Greater |
| Distribution of Forces | Solid, often sufficient | Reinforced, for heavy chewing |
| Bone Graft | Often Preventable | Sometimes necessary |
| When do we consider this? | The bone has resorbed, and we want to avoid a graft | The bone is healthy, and we want maximum stability |
When All-on-4 Is More Than Enough
Have you lived for years with dentures, or with several missing teeth? There’s a good chance that your bone has receded in some areas. This is the most common scenario, and it’s precisely where All-on-4 shines: it’s anchored in the areas where bone remains, often without the need for a bone graft. A less invasive procedure, and fixed teeth just when you’d given up hope. For many of the people we treat, that’s the end of the conversation.
When All-on-6 Really Comes Into Its Own
If you have a strong bone structure and a jaw that exerts a lot of pressure, or if you clench your teeth at night, two additional implants are definitely worth it. They distribute the load more evenly and ensure long-term stability. In this case, the “6” is by no means a sales pitch. It addresses a very real mechanical constraint.
The Three Things That Really Matter
Forget the “Top 5 Best Techniques” lists. Three elements stand out, and none of them can be guessed just by looking at a photo of a perfect smile.
First, your bone. Its height and density—which are measured by CT scan—determine what can be done without a graft. That is by far the number one criterion.
Next, your bite. Strong biting force or bruxism lead to greater stability.
Finally, your situation—including your budget. Given its reliable and long-lasting results, the All-on-4 option is often more affordable, and that’s a perfectly valid factor to consider in your decision.
To make an informed decision, you need a physical exam and imaging tests. Not just a photo, not just a rough guess.
The “More Is Better” Trap
Let’s be clear, because this is rarely said out loud: they may very well sell you six implants when four would have been perfectly sufficient. It’s more expensive, puts more strain on you, and doesn’t offer you any additional benefits.
We don’t play games like that. If four implants are all you need, we’ll put in four, and we’ll explain why. It’s less profitable for us in the short term. That’s also why our patients recommend us.
A real-life example. One of our partner clinics recommended a full All-on-6 procedure for a patient. Upon reviewing his case in detail, we realized that a significant portion of his natural teeth could be saved. We opted for two or three implants, a few crowns, and targeted treatment, rather than extracting teeth that could still be saved. The result is just as good, the patient’s natural teeth are preserved, and yes, it earned us less. The best tooth is the one you keep.
How We Cut for You
It’s simple. You send us details about your situation, photos, and a scan (if you have one), and we’ll discuss it with you in your language. A dentist will provide their opinion, and you’ll receive a clear plan: All-on-4 or All-on-6, the steps involved, the duration, and a transparent quote provided upfront—with no surprises along the way. If you decide to move forward, we’ll organize everything—from appointments to your stay—at a selected partner clinic. And we’ll remain your point of contact before, during, and after the process.
In both cases, the warranties remain the same: a lifetime warranty on implants from the Swiss brands Straumann and Aiser, and a 15-year warranty on zirconia or e-max crowns. That’s what distinguishes a long-term investment from a “good deal” that you’ll regret two years later.
👉 Details on the procedure, the steps involved, and your quote: All-on-4 / All-on-6 Full-Mouth Implants page.
All our dental care services coordinated from Switzerland: Dental Care page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the All-on-6 last longer than the All-on-4?
Not necessarily. When properly placed and well maintained, both will last. What determines longevity is the quality of the implants, the dentist’s skill, and your oral hygiene—far more than the number of screws.
Can I choose the number of implants myself?
Honestly, no, and that’s good news. That number depends on your bone structure and your specific situation. That’s the whole point of the initial evaluation.
Will I leave here with permanent teeth right away?
Often, a temporary fixed prosthesis is placed immediately after the procedure, with the permanent one being fitted once healing is complete. This depends on your specific situation.
How do I know which one is right for me?
Send us a few photos for an initial assessment. We’ll give you our honest opinion, without automatically steering you toward the most expensive option.
Final CTA
Not sure about your choice? That’s good. It means we haven’t managed to fool you yet.
Send us details about your situation. We’ll tell you honestly whether you need the All-on-4 or the All-on-6, with a transparent quote and written guarantees to back it up.
Request my free quote → · Talk to an advisor →
Sublime Specialist Clinic · Swiss Medical Coordination
Coordination of your care from Switzerland, from the initial contact through follow-up. Offices in Pully (Switzerland) and Miami Beach.