All-on-6: a fixed full arch on six implants

All-on-6 uses six implants in the upper or lower jaw to support a full-arch fixed bridge. Compared with four implants, the extra two can help spread biting forces and, in some designs, allow the bridge to extend further back. Whether that matters for you depends on your bone, bite and the clinician's approach.

Placing six implants usually needs more available bone along the arch, so some people need bone grafting or a sinus lift first, while others may be better suited to All-on-4. As with other full-arch treatments, many clinics fit a provisional bridge soon after surgery and the final bridge after healing.

There is no single right number of implants for everyone. A good clinician will explain why they recommend a particular design for you and what the alternatives are, including implant-retained dentures.

All-on-6 may be suitable for adults missing most or all of the teeth in one jaw who would prefer fixed teeth. A dentist will need to examine you and assess a 3D scan first.

• Most or all teeth in an arch are missing or have been advised for removal.
• Imaging suggests there may be enough bone along the arch for six implants, or grafting is acceptable to you.
• You would prefer a fixed bridge to a removable denture.
• You are able to keep up thorough daily cleaning and regular reviews.
• You can plan for at least two trips, possibly more if grafting is needed.

Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, some medications, previous radiotherapy and heavy grinding may affect suitability or outcomes. Only an in-person assessment can establish what is appropriate. This is general information, not a diagnosis.

1. 01

   Records and remote assessment

   You share scans, photographs and medical history for initial review. Any plan at this stage is provisional.

2. 02

   Examination, CBCT and planning

   The dentist examines you and reviews a 3D scan to check bone along the arch, nerve position and sinuses, then confirms the plan, timings and costs.

3. 03

   Grafting, if needed

   Where bone is insufficient, grafting or a sinus lift may be required, sometimes with a healing period before implants can be placed.

4. 04

   Extractions, implants and provisional bridge

   Remaining teeth are removed if planned, six implants are placed and, where stability allows, a provisional fixed bridge is fitted within a few days.

5. 05

   Healing at home

   Implants integrate and gums settle over several months. A soft diet and careful cleaning are usually advised.

6. 06

   Final bridge

   On a later visit the definitive bridge is designed, tried in where appropriate and fitted, with bite adjustments and cleaning instructions.

All-on-6 typically involves at least two trips, and sometimes more if bone grafting is needed first.

In many cases the first trip covers assessment, surgery and a provisional bridge, and a second trip several months later covers the final bridge.

If grafting needs to heal before implants are placed, an additional visit may be required. Ask the clinic to set out all expected appointments in writing.

What can change the timeline

• Whether bone grafting or sinus lifts are needed
• Implant stability at the time of surgery
• Whether one or both arches are treated
• Healing time before the final bridge
• Laboratory and try-in time
• General health and smoking

As with any full-arch treatment, quotes depend heavily on your individual situation.

• One arch or both
• Number of implants and implant system
• Grafting, sinus lifts, extractions and sedation
• Provisional bridge and whether it is included
• Final bridge material
• Imaging and laboratory costs
• Your own travel and accommodation

We do not publish prices on this page. Each clinic sets its own fees and provides an indicative range, which can only be confirmed once a dentist has examined you and reviewed your scans. Ask for a written, itemised plan before you book anything, and check what is and is not included.

All-on-6 carries the general risks of extractions and implant surgery. Your clinician should discuss these as they apply to you.

• Implants may fail to integrate or may fail later, and may need to be replaced.
• Peri-implantitis can develop around implants over time.
• Bone grafting and sinus lifts carry their own risks, including graft failure and sinus problems.
• Nerve injury in the lower jaw is possible, causing numbness that may be temporary or, rarely, lasting.
• Bridges can chip, crack or loosen and may need repair.
• Adapting to speech, bite and appearance can take time.
• Follow your treating clinician's advice on when it is safe to fly after surgery, especially after sinus procedures.

Long-term success depends a great deal on cleaning and regular professional maintenance.

• Clean under and around the bridge daily using the tools your clinician recommends.
• Attend regular reviews; the bridge may need removing periodically by a dentist for cleaning and checks.
• Tell your home dentist about your treatment and bring complete records home.
• Agree in writing who handles follow-up, repairs and complications once you are home.
• Seek advice promptly about pain, swelling, bleeding or any looseness.