COMPLETE GUIDE: HOW MANY TEETH DO YOU GET WITH ALL-ON-4 DENTAL IMPLANTS?

If you’re missing multiple teeth and wondering about tooth replacement options, all-on-4 dental implants might be the solution you’ve been seeking. But one of the most common questions patients ask is: exactly how many teeth do you get with this innovative treatment? The answer is straightforward: you typically receive between 10 to 14 prosthetic teeth that are permanently attached to just four strategically placed implants.

At IGO Dental & Implant Center in Tempe, Dr. Han Choi, DABOI, FAAID, has helped hundreds of patients transform their smiles with this revolutionary technology. With over a decade of specialized training in implant dentistry and bone grafting, Dr. Choi understands that each patient’s needs are unique. This comprehensive guide will explain exactly what you can expect from all-on-4 dental implants, including the number of teeth, costs, benefits, and why this treatment has become the gold standard for full mouth restoration.

🦷 UNDERSTANDING ALL-ON-4 DENTAL IMPLANTS: THE TOOTH COUNT

All-on-4 dental implants represent a breakthrough in restorative dentistry. The name itself hints at the innovation: “all” refers to a complete set of teeth, while “4” represents the number of implants needed to support them. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, this treatment uses just four titanium implants to anchor a full arch of prosthetic teeth—typically 10 to 14 teeth per arch.

The exact number of teeth you receive depends on several factors, including your jaw structure, bone density, and aesthetic goals. Most patients receive 12 teeth as a standard full arch restoration, but this can vary. Some patients might receive 10 teeth if their jaw is narrower, while others with more spacious anatomy might get 14 teeth. The key advantage is that you’re getting a complete, functional smile without needing eight or more individual implants.

According to peer-reviewed research published in the Journal of Oral Implantology, this treatment has demonstrated a 98% success rate over 10 years. The revolutionary concept behind this approach is the strategic placement of implants—two are positioned vertically in the front, while two are angled at 45 degrees in the back. This biomechanical design distributes force evenly and maximizes support for your new teeth.

💡 HOW MANY IMPLANTS VS. HOW MANY TEETH: THE KEY DIFFERENCE

This is where many patients get confused. With all-on-4 dental implants, you’re getting four implants but 10-14 teeth. This is possible because the prosthetic arch bridges across all four implants, creating a seamless, natural-looking smile. Think of it like a bridge: you don’t need a support pillar under every single plank; strategic placement of supports can hold the entire structure.

The prosthetic teeth are custom-designed to match your facial structure, skin tone, and personal preferences. Each tooth is individually crafted and permanently fused to the prosthetic arch. Unlike removable dentures, you cannot take these teeth out—they’re fixed in place and feel exactly like natural teeth. You brush, floss, and care for them just like your biological teeth.

✨ BENEFITS OF GETTING A FULL ARCH WITH ALL-ON-4

When you choose this treatment, you’re not just getting teeth—you’re getting your quality of life back. Patients who receive all-on-4 dental implants report transformative benefits that extend far beyond aesthetics.

Restored Eating Function: One of the most significant advantages is the ability to eat whatever you want. Unlike dentures, which can slip and limit your diet, these implants are anchored securely to your jawbone. You can enjoy steak, apples, nuts, and all your favorite foods without worry. Your bite force returns to nearly 100% of natural teeth strength.

Natural Appearance: The prosthetic teeth are custom-designed to look completely natural. They match your facial proportions, gum line, and skin tone. No one will know you have implants unless you tell them. This confidence boost is priceless for many patients.

Permanent Solution: Unlike dentures that need replacing every 5-8 years, this solution is designed to last 20+ years with proper care. The prosthetic teeth might need adjustment or minor repairs over time, but the implants themselves are permanent.

Bone Preservation: When you lose teeth, your jawbone deteriorates. Traditional dentures accelerate this process because they don’t stimulate the bone. Implants, however, fuse with your bone and prevent further loss. This maintains your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance associated with dentures.

Improved Oral Health: Unlike bridges or dentures, implants don’t require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth. They’re a standalone solution that actually promotes long-term oral health.

💰 INVESTMENT: WHAT DOES ALL-ON-4 COST?

At IGO Dental & Implant Center, we provide all-on-4 dental implants at $11,999 per arch. This comprehensive price includes the four implants, the custom prosthetic arch, and all necessary procedures. Many patients choose to restore both upper and lower arches, which provides a complete smile transformation.

While this is a significant investment, consider the long-term value. Traditional dentures cost $1,500-$3,000 but need replacement every 5-8 years. Over 20 years, you might spend $6,000-$12,000 on multiple sets. Implants are a one-time investment that lasts decades. Plus, the quality of life improvement—eating normally, speaking clearly, and feeling confident—is invaluable.

The American Dental Association recognizes implants as the gold standard for tooth replacement. Many insurance plans cover a portion of implant treatment, and we offer flexible financing options to make this treatment accessible.

🔧 THE ALL-ON-4 PROCEDURE: WHAT TO EXPECT

The process of getting all-on-4 dental implants typically involves several steps spread over 4-6 months. Understanding the timeline helps you prepare mentally and physically for this life-changing treatment.

Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation (Week 1): Dr. Han Choi performs a thorough examination using advanced imaging, including 3D CT scans. This allows him to assess your bone density, identify anatomical structures, and plan the exact placement of your four implants. If you need bone grafting, this is determined at this stage.

Step 2: Implant Placement (Week 2-4): Under local anesthesia or sedation, Dr. Choi surgically places the four titanium implants. This is typically a same-day procedure. You’ll receive a temporary prosthetic arch immediately, so you leave with teeth the same day.

Step 3: Osseointegration (Months 2-6): Your implants fuse with your jawbone through a biological process called osseointegration. This typically takes 4-6 months. During this time, you wear your temporary prosthetics while your implants become permanent.

Step 4: Final Prosthetics (Month 6): Once osseointegration is complete, your permanent, custom-designed prosthetic arch is attached. This is your final smile, crafted to perfection by our AI-powered laboratory.

❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many teeth exactly do you get with all-on-4 dental implants?

Most patients receive 10-14 prosthetic teeth supported by four implants. The exact number depends on your jaw structure and aesthetic goals. A standard full arch typically includes 12 teeth—six on each side. Dr. Han Choi customizes this based on your individual anatomy to ensure optimal function and appearance.

Can you remove all-on-4 dental implants like dentures?

No, these implants are permanently fixed. Unlike removable dentures, the prosthetic arch is screwed or cemented onto your implants and cannot be removed by you. This is actually an advantage because it eliminates the inconvenience of nightly cleaning and the embarrassment of dentures slipping. However, a dentist can remove them if needed for maintenance or repair.

How long do all-on-4 dental implants last?

The implants themselves are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. The prosthetic teeth might need adjustment, repair, or replacement after 15-20 years due to normal wear. However, many patients keep their original prosthetics for 20+ years. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to maximize longevity.

Do I need bone grafting before all-on-4 dental implants?

Not always. One of the advantages of this treatment is that the strategic placement of four implants often eliminates the need for bone grafting. However, if you have significant bone loss, Dr. Han Choi specializes in bone grafting procedures to ensure you have adequate bone for implant placement. This is determined during your initial consultation with advanced 3D imaging.

Can you eat normally with all-on-4 dental implants?

Yes! One of the biggest benefits is that you can eat virtually anything. Your bite force returns to approximately 90-100% of natural teeth strength. You can enjoy steak, apples, nuts, popcorn, and all your favorite foods. This is a major advantage over dentures, which limit your diet and can slip while eating.

What is the success rate of all-on-4 dental implants?

According to clinical studies, the success rate for this treatment is approximately 98% over 10 years. This means that when performed by an experienced implant specialist like Dr. Han Choi, DABOI, FAAID, the implants have an excellent chance of lasting decades. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to maintain this success rate.

Ready to transform your smile with a complete restoration? All-on-4 dental implants could be your path to renewed confidence and quality of life.

📍 VISIT IGO DENTAL & IMPLANT CENTER IN TEMPE