Top 10 Questions Patients Ask | All-on-4® Dental Implants

If you’ve been considering a permanent solution for missing teeth, chances are you’ve come across the All-on-4® dental implant system. It’s a life-changing procedure that restores your smile and chewing function—often in just one day. But before making the decision, patients often have important questions. In this post, we’ll answer the top 10 questions about All-on-4 implants to help you feel informed and confident.

1. What are All-on-4 dental implants?

All-on-4 is a full-arch tooth replacement solution that uses just four dental implants to support an entire arch of prosthetic teeth. The implants are strategically angled to maximize bone contact, making them ideal for patients with some bone loss.

2. How is All-on-4 different from traditional implants?

Traditional implants often require 6 to 8 implants per arch and may need bone grafting. All-on-4 uses only four implants and typically avoids the need for grafting by using existing bone more efficiently. This means faster healing and lower costs.'

3. Am I a candidate for All-on-4?

You may be a candidate if you are missing most or all of your teeth, or if you wear dentures and want a more stable, permanent solution. A consultation with a dental implant specialist—including 3D imaging—can confirm your eligibility.

4. How long does the procedure take?

In many cases, patients can have their remaining teeth removed, implants placed, and receive a new set of temporary teeth—all in a single day. The final prosthetic is usually placed after 3–6 months, once healing is complete.

5. Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia, so patients feel little to no discomfort during surgery. Afterward, mild soreness is common, but most patients manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers and are back to normal activities within a few days.

6. How long do All-on-4 implants last?

With proper care, the dental implants themselves can last decades—or even a lifetime. The prosthetic teeth may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, but the implants are designed for long-term durability.

7. What do All-on-4 teeth look & feel like?

The prosthetic teeth are custom-designed to look natural and feel secure. Unlike removable dentures, All-on-4 restorations don’t shift or click—they stay fixed in place, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

8. Can I eat normally with All-on-4 implants?

Yes! Once fully healed, you can enjoy almost all your favorite foods again. Crunchy vegetables, chewy bread, and even steak are back on the menu. Patients often report dramatic improvements in their ability to chew and enjoy meals.

9. How much do All-on-4 implants cost?

Costs vary depending on location, provider, materials used, and complexity of the case. In general, All-on-4 is more cost-effective than replacing each tooth individually. Many practices offer financing options to make the procedure more accessible.

10. Will my insurance cover All-on-4?

Some dental insurance plans may offer partial coverage for implants or the prosthetic. However, many patients use health savings accounts (HSAs), flexible spending accounts (FSAs), or third-party financing to help with the investment.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're tired of loose dentures, missing teeth, or constant dental work, All-on-4 may be the answer. Schedule a consultation today to find out if you're a candidate for this transformative solution.