
All-on-4 is a full-arch tooth replacement approach that uses strategically positioned dental implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth.
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, implant-supported teeth receive support from implants placed within the jawbone. The goal is to provide greater stability while replacing an entire upper or lower arch without placing an individual implant for every missing tooth.
Although the name refers to four implants, every patient is different. The number and position of implants should be determined by your anatomy, bone availability, bite, and treatment needs.
For appropriate candidates, All-on-4 treatment can provide several advantages:
All-on-4 may be considered for adults who have:
A consultation is necessary to determine candidacy. All-on-4 is not automatically the best solution for every patient with missing teeth.

Dr. Rivera evaluates your teeth, gums, bite, medical history, and treatment goals. If teeth remain, their condition and long-term prognosis are also considered.
Accurate planning is essential for full-arch implant treatment. A CBCT Scanner can provide detailed three-dimensional information about the jawbone and surrounding anatomy to help plan potential implant positions.
Teeth that cannot be predictably saved may need to be removed before or during implant treatment. When necessary, Tooth Extractions become part of the overall treatment plan.
Dental implants are strategically placed in the jaw to support the planned full-arch restoration. The exact number, position, and angle depend on the patient's anatomy and treatment plan.
Some patients may qualify for a provisional set of teeth during the healing period. Immediate temporary teeth cannot be guaranteed because sufficient implant stability and other clinical conditions are required.
The implants need time to integrate with the surrounding bone. Once healing has progressed appropriately, the final restoration can be designed and placed.
Strategic implant positioning can sometimes make full-arch treatment possible without extensive grafting. However, All-on-4 does not eliminate the need for bone grafting in every patient.
If bone volume or anatomy is inadequate, Bone Grafting may be considered as part of the treatment plan. Imaging and a clinical evaluation are needed to determine what is appropriate.
The timeline varies from patient to patient.
Treatment generally includes consultation and planning, implant placement, healing, and delivery of the final restoration. Patients requiring extractions, grafting, or other procedures may have a different timeline.
Healing is especially important because the implants need time to integrate with the jawbone before they can predictably support the final restoration.
Local anesthesia is used during implant placement to help keep treatment comfortable. Temporary swelling, soreness, and tenderness can occur afterward as the tissues heal.
Patients who are nervous about implant surgery can ask about Sedation Dentistry in Kannapolis, NC. Dr. Rivera can determine whether sedation is appropriate based on your health and treatment.
Traditional dentures are removable and receive their primary support from the gums and underlying tissues. They can be an effective and more affordable option for many patients.
All-on-4 uses dental implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth, offering greater stability and a different chewing experience. However, implant treatment requires surgery, sufficient supporting anatomy, ongoing maintenance, and typically a greater initial investment.
Patients considering removable tooth replacement can learn more about Full and Partial Dentures.
Not every implant-supported full-arch restoration works the same way.
Some implant-supported dentures are designed to be removable by the patient, while fixed full-arch restorations remain attached and are typically removed only by a dental professional when necessary.
Implant-Supported Dentures may be an alternative depending on your anatomy, budget, preferences, and treatment goals.
There is no universal All-on-4 price because full-arch implant treatment is customized.
Cost can depend on:
After evaluating your mouth, Kannapolis Family Dentistry can develop a personalized treatment plan and explain the associated costs and applicable payment options.
Like any surgical dental procedure, All-on-4 has potential risks and limitations.
These may include infection, swelling, discomfort, implant failure, bone or gum complications, and damage or wear to the prosthetic teeth. Implants and full-arch restorations also require ongoing professional and at-home maintenance.
Smoking, certain medical conditions, oral hygiene, bone quality, and other factors can influence healing and long-term outcomes.
All-on-4 may not be appropriate for patients with uncontrolled oral disease, certain uncontrolled medical conditions, unsuitable anatomy, or an inability to maintain the restoration properly.
Some patients may also have enough healthy teeth remaining that preserving them is preferable to full-arch replacement.
Dr. Rivera will evaluate your individual situation before recommending treatment.
All-on-4 teeth still require daily care. Although replacement teeth cannot develop cavities, plaque and bacteria can accumulate around the implants and surrounding gums.
Good maintenance typically includes:
The restoration itself can also wear or require repair over time.
All-on-4 is a full-arch tooth replacement approach in which strategically placed dental implants support a complete set of replacement teeth. The concept can provide greater stability than conventional removable dentures. Despite the name, the appropriate number and placement of implants should always be determined according to the patient's individual anatomy and treatment needs.
Cost varies based on the number of implants, extractions, bone grafting, sedation, diagnostic planning, restoration materials, and complexity of treatment. Because full-arch implant care is highly individualized, an examination is necessary before an accurate treatment estimate can be provided.
The complete process can involve several stages, including consultation, implant placement, healing, and placement of the final restoration. Some patients may qualify for temporary teeth sooner, while others require additional healing or preparatory procedures. Your individual treatment plan determines the timeline.
Local anesthesia is used during implant placement to keep the treatment area numb. Temporary soreness, swelling, or tenderness can occur afterward. The intensity and duration of discomfort vary by patient and procedure. Sedation may also be available for appropriate patients with dental anxiety.
Dental implants are designed as a long-term tooth replacement option, but no specific lifespan can be guaranteed. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, overall health, smoking, bite forces, implant health, professional maintenance, and other factors. The prosthetic teeth may also require maintenance, repair, or replacement over time.

Kannapolis Family Dentistry is a locally owned private practice led by Dr. Matt Rivera. We focus on personalized treatment planning, advanced dental technology, patient education, quality-focused dentistry, and comfortable care.
Patients considering extensive dental treatment deserve time to understand their options, including the advantages, limitations, costs, and alternatives.
Learn more about Dr. Matt Rivera and Kannapolis Family Dentistry.
Kannapolis Family Dentistry is located at 814 Sloop Ave, Kannapolis, NC 28083, providing convenient dental care for patients from Kannapolis and surrounding communities throughout the Cabarrus County and Rowan County area.
Whether you have struggled with removable dentures, have multiple missing teeth, or have been told that your remaining teeth have a poor prognosis, an implant consultation can help you understand your options.
Full-arch dental implant treatment is a significant decision. The first step is determining whether it is appropriate for your oral health, anatomy, lifestyle, and goals.
Call Kannapolis Family Dentistry at (704) 610-3013 to schedule an All-on-4 dental implant consultation with Dr. Matt Rivera.
Kannapolis Family Dentistry
814 Sloop Ave
Kannapolis, NC 28083
