All-on-6®

What All-on-6® implants are and how they differ from traditional dentures

All-on-6® is a full-arch restoration technique that uses six dental implants to permanently support a fixed prosthesis for an entire upper or lower jaw. Unlike removable dentures that rest on the gums and may shift or require adhesives, an All-on-6® bridge is anchored directly to the jawbone. This creates a stable chewing surface and a restoration that functions and feels closer to natural teeth for most patients.

The prosthesis attached to the implants is custom-made to restore proper bite, esthetics, and speech. Because the bridge is secured to multiple implants, the load of biting and chewing is distributed across the jaw, which can reduce strain on any single implant and improve long-term stability. For many patients, this means fewer adjustments and a more predictable return to normal eating habits than with removable options.

All-on-6® is sometimes chosen over designs that use fewer implants because the extra support can enhance prosthetic stability and allow for broader implant spacing. That additional foundation can be particularly helpful in cases with soft tissue concerns or where clinicians want to optimize the mechanical support for a full-arch prosthesis.

Step-by-step: what to expect during evaluation and treatment

Before any implant work begins, a thorough evaluation establishes whether All-on-6® is an appropriate solution. This usually includes a medical and dental history review, digital imaging such as CBCT scans, and intraoral examinations to assess bone volume, gum health, and occlusion. These diagnostic steps let the treatment team design a prosthetic plan tailored to the patient’s anatomy and functional needs.

On the day of implant placement, six implants are positioned in strategic locations to maximize support. Many clinicians use guided surgical techniques or surgical templates derived from preoperative planning to improve precision. When conditions are favorable, a temporary fixed prosthesis can be attached the same day, allowing patients to leave the office with functional teeth while the implants integrate with the bone.

Osseointegration — the process by which bone bonds to the implant surface — typically takes several months. During this healing phase, the temporary prosthesis protects soft tissues and preserves esthetics. Once integration is confirmed, the temporary is replaced with a definitive restoration that is refined for fit, polish, and occlusion to ensure long-term comfort and function.

Who is a good candidate and how clinicians determine suitability

Candidacy for All-on-6® depends on a combination of general health, oral conditions, and patient goals. Ideal candidates are those who are missing most or all teeth in an arch, have adequate jawbone to support implants, and are committed to maintaining oral hygiene and regular dental follow-up. Chronic medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or habits like heavy smoking may require additional management to reduce risks.

Bone volume and quality are critical but not always disqualifying. One advantage of the six-implant approach is that it can often accommodate anatomical limitations that might challenge fewer-implant strategies. With precise imaging and planning, clinicians can identify optimal implant sites and determine whether bone augmentation or sinus management is necessary before or during implant placement.

During the assessment, your dental team will also evaluate bite relationships, gum health, and any parafunctional habits such as clenching or grinding. These factors influence prosthetic design and material choices to ensure the restoration withstands daily function. A candid discussion about expectations and maintenance helps align treatment goals with a realistic long-term plan.

Daily life with an All-on-6® restoration: care, maintenance, and longevity

Once the final prosthesis is in place, daily care mirrors many aspects of natural tooth maintenance but with some specific considerations. Patients should brush the prosthesis and surrounding gum tissues thoroughly and use interdental cleaning tools designed for implant-supported bridges to remove plaque beneath the prosthetic span. Routine professional cleanings and examinations are essential to monitor implant health and soft tissue conditions.

Dietary adjustments are typically temporary. After surgery, clinicians recommend a staged progression from soft to firmer foods as healing advances. After full integration, most patients can return to a normal, varied diet, though avoiding extremely hard or sticky items can extend the life of the prosthesis. Equally important is protecting the restoration from excessive forces by addressing bruxism with adjunctive therapies when indicated.

Long-term success depends on consistent follow-up. Regular appointments allow the dental team to check torque values, inspect for wear on prosthetic components, and perform any necessary maintenance such as screw tightening or polishing. With proper care and routine professional oversight, All-on-6® restorations can provide durable function and predictable outcomes for many years.

Clinical planning, technology, and what to look for in a provider

Successful All-on-6® treatment begins with meticulous planning and a team that coordinates surgical, prosthetic, and hygiene care. Contemporary workflows often use 3D imaging, virtual implant planning, and guided surgical guides to translate a digital treatment plan into precise clinical execution. These technologies help minimize surprises and contribute to more comfortable, efficient appointments.

When evaluating a provider, patients should look for clinicians who present a clear, stepwise plan, explain diagnostic findings, and describe both temporary and definitive prosthetic phases. A collaborative approach that involves restorative dentists, surgeons (or clinicians trained in implant placement), and hygienists ensures each part of the process is managed by trained professionals and that long-term maintenance is part of the care model.

At our practice, the treatment pathway emphasizes patient education and realistic expectations. We combine diagnostic imaging and evidence-based protocols to design restorations that balance esthetics and function. A thorough preoperative discussion covers surgical steps, healing timelines, and the maintenance routine patients will follow after the final restoration is placed.

In summary, All-on-6® is a fixed, implant-supported solution designed to restore full-arch function and appearance with a strong focus on stability and long-term performance. When planned and executed carefully, it enables many patients to regain reliable chewing, clearer speech, and a natural-looking smile. If you’d like to learn whether All-on-6® could be a suitable option for your needs, please contact True Vine Dental Care for more information and to arrange a personalized evaluation.