All-on-Four Dental Implants Explained: What Every Patient Should Know

Missing teeth can do more than affect your smile. They can interfere with your ability to chew, speak clearly, and feel confident in daily life. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers advanced solutions to restore your smile and your confidence permanently. One of the most trusted and effective options for full arch restoration is all-on-four dental implants. At 65 Broadway Dental, located in the heart of the Financial District in NYC, we specialize in transforming smiles with cutting-edge implant technology. If you're considering this life-changing treatment, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know clearly, simply, and honestly so you can make an informed and confident decision about your dental health. What Are All-on-Four Dental Implants? All-on-Four dental implants are a full-arch teeth replacement solution where just four dental implants support a complete set of upper or lower teeth. Instead of placing an implant for each missing tooth, this technique strategically places four titanium posts into the jawbone. These posts act as a stable foundation for a custom-designed fixed prosthesis. This method not only reduces the number of implants needed but also minimizes bone grafting in many cases, making it a quicker, more efficient option for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. How Is All-on-Four Different from Traditional Implants or Dentures? Let’s break it down: Feature All-on-Four Implants Traditional Implants Dentures Number of Implants 4 per arch 6–8 per arch None Bone Grafting Often Needed? Rare Sometimes No Stability Fixed, very stable Fixed, very stable Can slip or shift Appearance Natural-looking Natural-looking May look artificial Chewing Ability Close to natural Natural Limited Maintenance Brush like real teeth Brush like real teeth Must remove and clean daily Longevity 15+ years 20+ years 5–10 years In short, All-on-Four combines the best of both worlds: stability and function without the lengthy process or high cost of multiple implants. Who Is a Good Candidate for All-on-Four? This treatment is ideal for patients who: Have lost most or all of their teeth Struggle with loose or uncomfortable dentures Have adequate jawbone density (or are borderline and want to avoid grafting) Want a permanent, non-removable solution Are in overall good health If you smoke heavily or have uncontrolled diabetes or gum disease, your dentist may recommend addressing these issues first. The All-on-Four Procedure: Step-by-Step 1. Initial Consultation Your dentist will perform a full oral exam, take X-rays and 3D scans, and assess your overall health. This visit helps determine if you're a good candidate for All-on-Four dental implants. You'll also discuss your treatment goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have. 2. Treatment Planning Using 3D imaging, your dentist will digitally map out the precise placement of the implants. A temporary set of teeth may be designed in advance for immediate use after surgery. Every detail is tailored to your bone structure, bite, and aesthetic preferences. 3. Implant Placement On the day of surgery, four implants are placed into your jaw—two straight in front, and two angled in the back. Local anesthesia or sedation keeps you comfortable throughout. In most cases, you’ll leave with a temporary set of fixed teeth attached the same day. 4. Healing & Osseointegration Over the next 3 to 6 months, your implants will bond with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. During this healing phase, you'll wear your temporary teeth and follow a soft food diet. Regular checkups ensure smooth, complication-free recovery. 5. Final Prosthesis Once healing is complete, your dentist will take impressions for your final, permanent prosthesis. These teeth are custom-designed for long-term function, comfort, and aesthetics. They’re securely attached to your implants, completing your smile transformation. Top Benefits of All-on-Four Dental Implants Immediate ResultsOne of the most attractive benefits of All-on-Four dental implants is the ability to receive a new smile in just one day. This treatment allows many patients to walk out of the dental office with a fully functioning set of teeth on the very same day as their surgery. No Bone Grafting RequiredUnlike traditional implants that often need bone grafting for patients with bone loss, All-on-Four implants are strategically placed at angles to maximize existing bone. This helps avoid the need for complex and time-consuming bone graft procedures. Natural Look & FeelThese implants are custom-made to match the shape of your face and mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Not only do they look real, but they also feel comfortable and stable, allowing you to smile and speak with confidence. Eat What You Love AgainAll-on-Four implants restore strong chewing ability. That means you can enjoy your favorite foods again — like crunchy apples, juicy steaks, and even corn on the cob — without worrying about dentures slipping or breaking. Improved Self-ConfidenceWith a secure and attractive set of teeth, patients often feel more confident in social and professional settings. You can laugh freely, speak clearly, and smile without hesitation. Long-Lasting SolutionWhen properly cared for, All-on-Four implants can last 20 years or more. They are made from high-quality, durable materials that are built to stand the test of time, making them a wise investment in your long-term oral health. What About the Cost? The average cost of All-on-Four dental implants ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 per arch, depending on location, materials, and provider expertise. While this may sound steep, consider this: It replaces all your teeth in one go. It often eliminates the need for bone grafts or sinus lifts. It's more affordable than placing 8–10 individual implants. Financing plans are often available. Many providers offer in-house financing or partner with third-party lenders. Ask about flexible monthly payments. Common Myths About All-on-Four Implants Myth 1: It’s too painful. Reality: The procedure is done under local anesthesia or sedation. Most patients report mild soreness, not pain. Myth 2: They won’t last long. Reality: With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, they can last 15–20+ years. Myth 3: It takes forever to heal. Reality: You can often eat soft foods and smile confidently on Day 1 with your temporary prosthesis. Questions to Ask Your Dentist Before Getting All-on-Four Are you trained in All-on-Four procedures? What type of implants and materials do you use? Will I get teeth on the same day? What is the total cost, and what’s included? What happens if a complication occurs? Final Thoughts: Is All-on-Four Right for You? If you're tired of the discomfort of dentures or dealing with failing teeth, All-on-Four dental implants could be the life-changing solution you're looking for. They offer a beautiful, functional, and permanent solution to tooth loss—with fewer implants, faster results, and less downtime. Speak to a qualified implant dentist to discuss your goals, examine your bone structure, and create a custom plan that fits your lifestyle and budget. Your best smile may be closer than you think.