Full-Arch Dental Implants: Replacing All Your Teeth in One Treatment

For patients who are missing most or all of their teeth in one or both jaws, or who have a full set of failing teeth that can't realistically be saved, full-arch implants offer a fixed, permanent alternative to removable dentures. This guide explains how the treatment works, who it suits, and what to expect, as one of the options covered on our main Implants page.

What Full-Arch Implant Treatment Involves

Rather than placing an individual implant for every missing tooth, full-arch treatment typically uses a smaller number of strategically positioned implants, often four to six per jaw, to support a complete, fixed row of replacement teeth.

This approach, sometimes referred to as "All-on-4" or "All-on-6" depending on the exact number used, is designed to make the most of the bone you have, including in areas where bone loss has occurred.

The replacement teeth are fixed in place rather than removable, so there's no taking them out at night, no denture adhesive, and biting and chewing feel much closer to natural teeth than a traditional denture allows.

When to Consider This Option

Full-arch implants are usually considered by patients who are missing most of their natural teeth already, who have teeth that are failing extensively due to decay or gum disease and are heading toward extraction, or who currently wear a full denture and find it uncomfortable, unstable, or simply want something more permanent.

If you're further along the spectrum, missing just one or a few teeth, a single implant or implant bridge is more likely to be the right fit, which we cover in our guide to the implant procedure.

How It Compares to Dentures

The biggest practical difference is stability. Dentures sit on the gum and can shift, particularly in the lower jaw, which affects confidence when eating or speaking. Full-arch implants are anchored into the jawbone itself, so they function and feel much closer to natural teeth. We go into this comparison in more depth in our guide to dentures vs implants.

Full-arch treatment is a bigger undertaking than a denture, both in terms of the procedure itself and the investment involved, but for many patients the day-to-day difference in confidence and comfort is substantial.

What the Treatment Timeline Looks Like

Full-arch treatment generally starts the same way as any implant case: a consultation, followed by a detailed 3D scan to assess bone volume and plan implant positions precisely. Photos, and digital impressions are usually taken too.

Depending on your case, it may be possible to fit a temporary fixed set of teeth on the same day as surgery, with the final, permanent set following once the implants have fully integrated with the bone over the following months. Not every case is suitable for same-day teeth, and we'll be upfront with you about which approach applies to yours.

Bone Loss and Full-Arch Treatment

One of the advantages of full-arch implant treatment is that it can often work even where there's been significant bone loss.

Since the implants are strategically angled and positioned to use the bone that remains, sometimes this can bypass the need for extensive grafting that might otherwise be required for individual implants in the same areas. This is assessed precisely at the scanning stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many implants are needed for a full arch?

It varies by case, but four to six implants per jaw is typical, positioned to make the best use of available bone. You might hear this referred to as All-on-4, All-on-6, or All-on-X.

Will I be without teeth during treatment?

In many cases a temporary fixed set can be fitted on the day of surgery, so you're rarely without teeth, though this depends on your individual case.

How long do full-arch implants last?

With good care and regular review, the implants themselves can function for many years. The visible teeth attached to them may need replacement or adjustment over time, which we'll discuss as part of ongoing care.

Is full-arch treatment suitable if I've worn dentures for years?

Often yes, though bone volume tends to reduce over time without natural teeth or implants in place, so this is checked carefully at the scanning stage.

What does full-arch treatment cost?

It depends on the number of implants, any grafting required, and the final restoration chosen. We provide a clear estimate after your consultation and scan, and offer finance options to help spread the cost.

If dentures aren't working for you, or you're facing the loss of most of your teeth, full-arch implants are worth discussing. See our Implants page for the full range of options, or get in touch to arrange a consultation.