JDC
Jan 10, 2026
Full mouth restoration with "All on 4" dental implants supporting a zirconia prosthetic.
Full mouth restoration with dental implants using the "All-on-4" technique** is a popular and highly effective solution for people who have lost most or all of their teeth in one or both arches (upper or lower jaw). It provides a **fixed, permanent prosthetic** (non-removable by the patient) that looks, feels, and functions much like natural teeth.
What is All-on-4?
The All-on-4 treatment concept (developed by Nobel Biocare) uses just **four dental implants** per arch to support a full set of replacement teeth. Two implants are placed straight in the front of the jaw, and two are angled (tilted up to 45°) in the back to maximize bone contact and often avoid the need for bone grafting. This makes it ideal for patients with some bone loss.
The Prosthetic (Replacement Teeth)
The prosthetic is a **fixed full-arch bridge** (also called a hybrid prosthesis), permanently screwed onto the implants — only a dentist can remove it for cleaning or adjustments. It's **not removable** like traditional dentures, so no slipping, adhesives, or covering the roof of the mouth.
This fixed design provides nearly 100% chewing function, better speech, and a more youthful facial appearance by supporting lips and cheeks.
The Procedure
1. Consultation and planning (with 3D scans/CT).
2. Extractions (if needed) and implant placement in one surgery.
3. Immediate temporary fixed prosthesis ("Teeth in a Day") if bone stability allows.
4. Healing (3–6 months).
5. Final permanent prosthetic (often zirconia or acrylic on titanium for durability).
This graftless approach shortens treatment time and reduces costs compared to traditional methods requiring more implants or bone grafts.
### Benefits
- Permanent and stable — feels like natural teeth.
- High success rate (implant survival ~98% over years).
- Improved chewing, speech, and confidence.
- Preserves jawbone and facial structure.
- Often no bone grafting needed.
- Life-changing for those with failing teeth or uncomfortable dentures.
### Risks and Considerations
Like any surgery, risks include infection, implant failure (rare), or prosthetic issues (e.g., fractures over time). Proper care (brushing, flossing, regular check-ups) is essential.
Cost (as of 2025–2026 estimates, mainly USA)
Costs vary by location, materials, and provider, but typically:
- **Per arch** (upper or lower): $18,000–$38,000+.
- **Full mouth** (both arches): $40,000–$60,000+
With Dr. Alan Martinez in Tijuana, the cost per arch runs about $8,000 to $12,000, including extractions, implants, and fixed denture.
If you're considering this, consult a qualified implant specialist for a personalized evaluation — results vary by bone quality and health. It's often described as one of the best long-term investments for oral health and quality of life!