All-on-6 Implant Treatment
Full-Arch Support with All-on-6
All-on-6 is a protocol that uses six implants per jaw in full-arch fixed prosthesis rehabilitation. Additional implants may help distribute occlusal forces over a wider area, especially in the posterior region; this does not mean superiority over All-on-4 in every case. Implant number alone does not guarantee success; bone quality and hygiene are decisive.
Protocol selection is made according to bone quality, bone volume, sinus and canal anatomy and the need for prosthetic design. Six implants may require more surgical time and cost; suitability is determined after examination and imaging. Additional implant support in the posterior region may contribute to distribution of occlusal forces in some cases.
Planning Differences
Digital planning may optimise implant position and prosthesis design. In the presence of bruxism, material and occlusion design are assessed separately. Temporary and final prosthetic stages are shared with the patient. In bone insufficiency, grafting or sinus lifting may be planned as a separate stage. CBCT may be used in planning bone distribution and anatomical risks.
All-on-6 is not mandatory for every full-jaw tooth loss; in some cases with sufficient bone volume, All-on-4 may provide adequate support.
Application and Healing
Implant placement may be performed under local anaesthesia or sedation. After osseointegration, a screw-retained fixed prosthesis is produced. Soft diet and hygiene instructions are important in the first weeks. Swelling and sensitivity may occur; the clinic should be contacted if there is a marked increase beyond expectations.
A temporary fixed prosthesis may be assessed on the same day in some cases; this is not valid for every patient and depends on clinical suitability. Smoking may negatively affect integration.
Comparison with All-on-4
All-on-6 requires more implants; in some cases with insufficient bone, it aims to broaden the support area. Which protocol is suitable is determined after examination and imaging. Hygiene under the prosthesis and regular control are critical in both protocols; revision is assessed in case of implant loss.
Early intervention may be needed in case of implant loss or prosthesis fracture. Expectations are discussed realistically during examination; a definite duration or result is not promised. During the temporary prosthesis period, soft diet and avoiding smoking may be recommended. Regular control and professional cleaning may support prosthesis longevity; imaging frequency is determined by clinical need.