Full-Arch Implants · Edgecliff
A fixed full arch of teeth supported by four implants, planned from a 3D scan. Suitability, risks and alternatives are discussed before anything proceeds.
Full-Arch Implants
All-on-4 is a full-arch implant technique: a complete fixed bridge of teeth is supported by four dental implants in the upper or lower jaw. The two back implants are usually angled, which can make use of the available bone and, in some cases, avoid bone grafting. Unlike a denture, the bridge is fixed in place and is only removed by your dentist for maintenance.
It may be considered if you are missing most or all of your teeth in an arch, have teeth that cannot be saved, or are finding a removable denture unstable or uncomfortable. It is not suitable for everyone; suitability is assessed with a clinical examination and a 3D scan.
Your Options
There is more than one way to replace a full arch of teeth. The right option depends on your bone, your health, your budget and your goals.
| Full-arch bridge on 4 implants | Implant-retained overdenture | Conventional denture | Individual implants | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed or removable | Fixed (removed by the dentist only) | Removable, clips onto implants | Removable | Fixed |
| Implants per arch | 4 | Usually 2 to 4 | None | Often 6 to 10+ |
| Bone grafting | Sometimes avoided by angling implants | Sometimes needed | Not needed | More often needed |
| Typical treatment time | Around 3 to 6 months to the final bridge | Around 3 to 6 months | A few weeks | Often 6 to 12 months |
| Daily care | Brushing plus cleaning under the bridge | Remove and clean daily | Remove and clean daily | Brushing and flossing like natural teeth |
| Relative cost | Higher | Moderate | Lowest | Highest |
General information only. Your options are confirmed after examination and imaging.
The Process
Examination, medical history and a CBCT (3D) scan to check bone, nerves and sinuses. We discuss whether full-arch treatment is suitable for you at all, and the alternatives.
Implant positions and the new bridge are planned from your scan and records. You receive a written, itemised treatment plan and quote before deciding.
Under local anaesthetic, any remaining failing teeth are removed and four implants are placed in the arch. If you are anxious, sedation options are discussed beforehand.
Depending on how stable the implants are at surgery, a fixed provisional bridge may be fitted shortly afterwards; otherwise a temporary denture is worn while the implants heal.
After healing, usually around three to six months, the final bridge is made and fitted. Regular reviews and professional cleaning help maintain the implants long term.
Fees
Full-arch treatment is quoted per arch, in writing, after your consultation and CBCT scan, because the fee depends on factors including:
Single implants are $5,000 per tooth (implant and crown). See the implant fee schedule and all current fees on our fees page.
All-on-4 is surgery. As with any surgical procedure there are risks, including pain, swelling and bruising, infection, bleeding, nerve injury causing altered sensation in the lip or chin, involvement of the sinus in the upper jaw, implants that do not integrate with the bone, and fracture or wear of the bridge.
Recovery: most people have swelling and discomfort for several days and follow a soft diet while the implants heal. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and gum disease increase the risk of complications. Implants need lifelong maintenance and regular reviews. Results vary between individuals. See treatment information.
Your Dentist
Assessment, planning and treatment are carried out by Dr Pierre Khazin (Dentist), who holds a Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Implants), The University of Sydney, and is a member of the International Team for Implantology (ITI) and the Australian Society of Implant Dentistry. Dr Khazin holds general registration with the Dental Board of Australia and is not a registered specialist. If a specialist referral is in your interest, we will tell you and arrange it.
Common Questions
All-on-4® is a registered trademark of Nobel Biocare. It is used here to describe the full-arch treatment concept.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Pierre Khazin (Dentist, general registration, AHPRA DEN0002037290), Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Implants), The University of Sydney. Last reviewed 8 November 2026. General information only; your options are confirmed after a clinical assessment.
Next step
Book with Dr Pierre Khazin (Dentist) at Dr Pierre Dentistry, Suite 177, 161 New South Head Road, Edgecliff, or call (02) 8054 4331.
