Losing most or all of your teeth can affect far more than your smile — it impacts eating, speaking, and confidence. All-on-X dental implants offer a way to restore an entire arch of teeth using just four to six strategically placed implants. Here's what you need to know.
What Does "All-on-X" Mean?
The "All-on" part refers to a full arch of teeth — typically 10 to 14 teeth — being supported on a fixed bridge. The "X" refers to the number of implants used to anchor that bridge, usually four to six.
The concept was originally developed using four implants per arch. Today, the number of implants is tailored to each patient's anatomy and bone structure, which is why many practitioners now use the term "All-on-X."
How Is It Different from Individual Implants?
With traditional implant treatment, each missing tooth gets its own implant. For someone missing an entire arch, that could mean 8–12 implants per jaw — significantly more surgery, healing time, and cost.
All-on-X achieves a similar result using far fewer implants by placing them at strategic angles:
- Posterior implants are angled (typically 30–45 degrees) to maximise contact with available bone
- This often eliminates the need for bone grafting, even in patients with some bone loss
- The result is a fixed, non-removable set of teeth that look and function naturally
Who Is a Candidate for All-on-X?
All-on-X may be suitable if you:
- Are missing all or most teeth in one or both jaws
- Currently wear full dentures and want a permanent alternative
- Have been told you need multiple extractions
- Have experienced bone loss that makes individual implants challenging
Dr. Cho assesses every patient individually using 3D imaging to determine whether All-on-X is appropriate. As a Key Opinion Leader for the DIO Implant System and with over 9,000 implants placed, he brings extensive experience to these complex cases.
The All-on-X Procedure: What Happens
Stage 1: Assessment and Planning - Comprehensive oral examination and 3D CT scan - Digital treatment planning to map implant positions - Discussion of anaesthesia options and timeline
Stage 2: Surgery Day - Remaining teeth are extracted (if necessary) - Four to six implants are placed per arch - A temporary fixed bridge is often attached on the same day (sometimes called "teeth in a day") - The entire procedure typically takes 2–4 hours per arch
Stage 3: Healing Period - Osseointegration takes approximately 3–6 months - You wear the temporary bridge during this time - Regular check-ups monitor healing progress
Stage 4: Final Prosthesis - Once implants are fully integrated, impressions are taken - Your permanent bridge is custom-fabricated - The final prosthesis is fitted and adjusted for comfort and appearance
All-on-X vs. Traditional Dentures
| Aspect | All-on-X | Traditional Dentures |
|--------|----------|---------------------|
| Fixed or removable | Fixed (non-removable) | Removable |
| Bone preservation | Yes — implants stimulate bone | No — bone loss continues |
| Eating | Bite force similar to natural teeth | Reduced bite force; some foods difficult |
| Adhesive needed | No | Often yes |
| Cleaning | Brush in place; special floss | Remove and soak daily |
| Longevity | 15–25+ years (bridge may need updating) | 5–10 years before replacement |
What About Cost?
All-on-X represents a significant investment. However, compared to placing 8–12 individual implants per arch, it is typically more affordable. When you also factor in the ongoing costs of denture replacements, adhesives, and adjustments over a lifetime, the long-term economics often favour All-on-X.
During your consultation, Dr. Cho will provide a detailed treatment plan with clear pricing so there are no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can All-on-X be done in a single day?
The implant surgery and attachment of a temporary bridge can often be completed in one day. However, the permanent prosthesis is placed after a healing period of 3–6 months.
What material is the final bridge made from?
Options include zirconia (a very durable ceramic), acrylic with a metal framework, or hybrid materials. Dr. Cho will discuss which material suits your needs and budget.
Is All-on-X suitable for both upper and lower jaws?
Yes. The procedure can be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Upper jaw cases sometimes require more implants due to softer bone density.
How do I clean All-on-X teeth?
You brush them like natural teeth and use specialised floss or a water flosser to clean beneath the bridge. Regular hygiene appointments at Shine Dental help maintain them.
Take the First Step
If you're tired of loose dentures or facing extensive tooth loss, All-on-X could transform your daily life. Patients from Newington, Auburn, Wentworth Point, Silverwater, Sydney Olympic Park, and Lidcombe choose Shine Dental for complex implant work.
Call (02) 9748 4822 or request a consultation online.
Shine Dental — Unit 5, 8 Avenue of Americas, Newington NSW 2127
Open Mon–Wed & Fri 9am–5pm, Thu 9am–12pm