If you are researching full mouth dental implants abroad, you will quickly come across the terms All-on-4 and All-on-6. While they sound similar, they are not identical treatments, and understanding the difference can help you ask better questions and compare clinics more effectively.
One important point: not every patient is a candidate for both options. The right treatment depends on bone density, jaw structure, bite forces, overall oral health, and the dentist’s treatment approach.
In this guide
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a full arch restoration technique where four dental implants are used to support a fixed bridge of replacement teeth.
Typically:
- 4 implants support one arch
- Upper and lower arches may be treated separately
- Temporary teeth may be placed immediately in some cases
- Final teeth are installed after healing
This approach is often recommended when bone availability is limited because angled implants can sometimes reduce the need for bone grafting.
What Is All-on-6?
All-on-6 follows the same general concept, but instead of four implants supporting the bridge, six implants are used per arch.
The idea is to provide additional support and load distribution, particularly in cases where bite forces are stronger or the treatment plan calls for additional stability.
- 6 implants per arch
- Often recommended for larger jaw structures
- May provide greater support in some cases
- Treatment approach varies by clinic
Key Differences Between All-on-4 and All-on-6
Number of Implants
All-on-4 uses four implants per arch. All-on-6 uses six.
Bone Requirements
Some All-on-4 cases may reduce grafting needs due to implant angulation.
Support
All-on-6 may offer additional structural support depending on the case.
It is important not to assume that more implants automatically means better treatment.
A strong treatment plan depends on:
- bone condition
- implant placement strategy
- prosthetic design
- bite analysis
- clinical judgment
Cost Differences
All-on-6 generally costs more than All-on-4 because:
- two additional implants are used
- surgical complexity may increase
- materials and treatment time may be higher
Clinics abroad may advertise pricing in different ways.
Always confirm:
- Is the quote per arch or full mouth?
- Are temporary teeth included?
- Are final teeth included?
- Is zirconia included?
- Are extractions included?
Important
Some advertised prices refer only to one arch, not a complete full mouth treatment.
After comparing All-on-4 and All-on-6, read our treatment timeline guide to understand how surgery, healing, and final teeth placement may affect your travel plans.
Travel Considerations for Treatment Abroad
Whether you choose All-on-4 or All-on-6, treatment abroad often involves at least two visits.
First trip:
- consultation
- imaging / scans
- extractions if needed
- implant placement
- temporary teeth
Healing period:
- typically several months
Second trip:
- final teeth placement
- adjustments
- final checks
When comparing quotes for full mouth treatment, our clinic selection guide explains what to ask before choosing a dental implant clinic abroad.
Questions to Ask Clinics
- Why do you recommend All-on-4 or All-on-6 for my case?
- What imaging do you need before final planning?
- Are temporary teeth included?
- What are the final teeth made from?
- How many visits are required?
- What if extra procedures are needed?
- What happens if adjustments are needed later?
Final takeaway
The right treatment is not about choosing the biggest number of implants. It is about choosing the treatment plan that fits your specific clinical needs.