All-on-4 or All-on-6: Which?

Short version: All-on-4 and All-on-6 are the same fixed-arch solution built on a different number of implants — four versus six. For the full clinical comparison including All-on-8, read All-on-4 vs All-on-6 vs All-on-8. This page answers the patient decision question: which should I ask for?

More anchors doesn't mean a better result — it means a different amount of bone is needed to support them. Your CT scan decides the number, not a price list or a package upgrade ladder.

The quick answer

Both protocols end with the same thing: a full row of fixed teeth screwed onto implants, not a removable denture. The only structural difference is how many implants hold that arch up.

• All-on-4 — four implants, the back two angled to reach denser bone further back in the jaw. Built for cases with less bone to work with, and generally the cheaper of the two.
• All-on-6 — six implants spread more evenly across the arch, sharing the bite load across more points. Often considered where bite forces are heavier or bone is more plentiful.

Cost-wise, overseas All-on-4 typically sits around AUD $8,000–$13,000 per arch, with All-on-6 a step up at roughly AUD $10,000–$16,000. See the All-on-4 cost guide for the full breakdown, including how bridge material moves that number.

Patient questions that actually matter

“Can I just request All-on-6 because it sounds stronger?”

You can request it — a good clinic will still refuse if your bone cannot support six fixtures safely. Paying for two extra implants you do not need does not improve longevity; it only increases surgery and cost. Conversely, insisting on All-on-4 when your bite force and bone profile favour six is equally unhelpful.

“Does All-on-4 mean something is wrong with my jaw?”

Usually no. All-on-4 was designed so many patients can avoid grafting by angling the rear implants into denser bone. It is a planning strategy, not a consolation prize.

“Will Australian dentists recognise either protocol?”

Yes — both are established full-arch approaches. What matters more for Australian aftercare is the implant brand and components, not whether you have four or six fixtures. Obscure systems create parts-sourcing problems either way.

“Do the trips change?”

No. Most cases still need two trips: surgery plus provisional on trip one; permanent bridge on trip two after osseointegration. Protocol count rarely changes that pattern. See how long you need overseas for implants.

Decision checklist before you fly

1. Cone-beam CT reviewed by the treating implant clinician
2. Written recommendation stating implant count and why
3. Named implant brand and bridge material on the quote
4. Clear warranty covering fixtures and prosthesis
5. All-in cost including second trip — not just the surgical package

Treat any quote that sells “All-on-6 upgrade” before imaging as a sales script, not a treatment plan.

So which one is right for me?

That’s not a question you answer yourself — it’s what the CT scan is for. A cone-beam scan shows bone volume, density and nerve positions; the implant count falls out of that data.

For the deeper dive — bone requirements, upper vs lower jaw differences, bite-force considerations, bridge materials and trip timing — see the full All-on-4 vs All-on-6 vs All-on-8 explainer.

Related reading

• All-on-4 vs All-on-6 vs All-on-8 — the full comparison
• All-on-4 cost guide for Australians
• Is it safe to get dental work done overseas?