All-on-4 Fixed Full-Arch Implant Bridge
Connolly Dental provides All-on-4 fixed full-arch dental implant treatment at our clinic in Connolly WA.
All-on-4 uses four dental implants to support a fixed full-arch bridge that stays in your mouth. It’s considered for adults with multiple failing teeth or loose dentures after clinical examination and 3D imaging. In selected cases, a provisional (temporary) fixed bridge can be fitted within 1–2 days of surgery; a custom final bridge is placed after healing (typically 3–6 months). Individual outcomes vary.
Why Patients Consider All-on-4
- Less movement than conventional full dentures, which can help day-to-day chewing and speech.
- Fixed solution – not removed at home; daily cleaning with brushes/interdental aids and regular professional maintenance.
- Staged timeline – provisional bridge in selected cases within 1-2 days; final bridge after healing (~3–6 months).
- Case selection matters – may be considered where bone is limited, subject to examination and imaging; grafting may still be required in some patients.
- Ongoing care in Connolly – reviews, adjustments and maintenance close to home.
Book a consultation to confirm if All-on-4 is appropriate for you.
Could All-on-4 Be Right For You?
All-on-4 isn’t suitable for everyone, and an honest assessment is important. Many patients are surprised to learn they may be candidates even with significant bone loss or previous implant concerns.
| Often Suitable | Typically Not Suitable | Needs Careful Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Frustrated denture wearers | Active, untreated gum disease | Severe teeth grinding (untreated) |
| Multiple loose or failing teeth | Uncontrolled diabetes | Previous head/neck radiation |
| Embarrassed by tooth movement | Current pregnancy | Taking bisphosphonate medications |
| Avoiding certain foods | Active cancer treatment | History of implant failure |
| Good general health | Under 18 years old | Heart surgery within 6 months |
| Committed to oral hygiene | Severe, untreated anxiety | Blood clotting disorders |
| Non-smoker or motivated to quit | Recent major facial trauma | Limited mouth opening |
| Realistic expectations about healing | Severe bone loss (very rare) | |
| Heavy smokers (15+ cigarettes daily) |
Medical conditions requiring specialist clearance: Uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure requiring medication changes. Current blood-thinning therapy or bleeding disorders. Recent cardiac procedures or ongoing heart conditions. Any condition affecting healing or immune response.
What to Expect: the All-on-4 Process
Discovery consultation (with CBCT if clinically indicated)
- What we do: A relaxed discussion of your goals and medical history. Dr Lily examines your mouth to assess gum health, remaining teeth, and (where relevant) the position of nerves and sinuses.
- Imaging: If clinically indicated, we refer you for a CBCT (Cone Beam CT) 3D scan to assess bone quality and plan implant positions.
- What you leave with: A plain-English outline of appropriate options (including alternatives), key risks, likely timelines, and next steps. No obligation to proceed.
Custom digital planning
- What we do: We use digital planning software (with your clinical findings and imaging) to map implant positions and design both a provisional and final bridge plan.
- What you see: A planning simulation to explain intent and sequence. It is a guide only – actual results are confirmed after surgery and healing, and individual outcomes vary.
Surgery day
- Comfort & safety: Local anaesthesia; sedation can be arranged where appropriate.
- Procedure: Removal of unsalvageable teeth (if required) and placement of implants in planned positions.
- Provisional bridge: In suitable cases, a fixed provisional bridge is fitted shortly after surgery. You receive written after-care instructions and review appointments.
Healing (osseointegration) (3-6 months)
- What happens: Implants bond with bone over several months.
- What to expect: Temporary swelling/discomfort is common early on; a soft-food diet is usual in the first weeks.
- Follow-up: Scheduled reviews to monitor healing and make any needed adjustments.
Final Bridge
- When: After integration is confirmed clinically and with x-rays.
- What we do: Take scans/impressions and place your custom final bridge (e.g., reinforced acrylic or zirconia).
- Expectations: We aim for a comfortable fit and function; minor adjustments may be required.
Lifelong support and maintenance
- Professional care: Reviews and professional maintenance typically every 3–6 months (frequency varies by patient and bridge material).
- Home care: Daily cleaning with brushes/interdental aids; a nightguard may be recommended if you clench or grind.
- Longevity: Components and materials can wear; repairs or replacement may be needed over time.
All-on-4 Timeline Expectations
| Milestone | Timeframe | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation to surgery | 4 weeks | Planning, medical clearance, preparation |
| Surgery day | 4–6 hours | Implants placed |
| Provisional teeth | 1–2 days | Provisional teeth fitted and adjusted |
| Healing period | 3–6 months | Integration, soft diet, adjustments |
| Final bridge | 2–3 weeks | Impressions, try-ins, final placement |
| Long-term maintenance | Every 3–6 months | Professional cleaning, monitoring |
Benefits and Considerations
All-on-4 can provide a fixed full-arch bridge that reduces movement compared with conventional dentures. In many cases, patients are able to chew more comfortably after healing and no longer need denture adhesives. Individual results vary.
This is a significant treatment. It involves surgery with expected discomfort and healing time. The first weeks typically require a soft-food diet and a careful cleaning routine. Long-term success depends on excellent oral hygiene and regular professional maintenance – these are not “fit and forget” teeth, and repairs or adjustments may be needed over time.
| Potential benefits | Limitations / trade offs |
|---|---|
| Fixed teeth that never slip or move | Surgery required with recovery time |
| Eat steak, apples, corn — foods you may have avoided | Soft diet for 12–16 weeks during initial healing |
| Clean them like normal teeth — no removal needed | Daily flossing and specialized cleaning essential |
| May prevent further bone loss | Professional maintenance every 3–6 months mandatory |
| Natural-feeling chewing and speaking | Temporary dietary changes during adjustment period |
| No denture adhesives or embarrassing moments | Significant time and financial investment required |
How All-on-4 Compares With Other Solutions
There are a few dental implant options to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle, health, and budget.
| Treatment | Stability | Bone Required | Daily Maintenance | Investment Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-on-4 | Highest - totally fixed | Minimal (works with bone loss) | Moderate (like natural teeth) | $$$ |
| All-on-6 | Highest - totally fixed | Moderate bone needed | Moderate (like natural teeth) | $$$$ |
| Snap-in denture | Good when snapped in | Moderate (2-4 implants) | Higher (remove for cleaning) | $$ |
| Quality conventional denture | Variable - can slip | None required | Lower (soaking, adhesives) | $ |
Risks, Recovery and Aftercare
All surgery carries risk. We provide written information and discuss your individual risk factors before you decide. Our aim is to give you practical, realistic guidance on what to expect and how to get support if something doesn’t feel right.
Immediate period (surgery day to week 1):
Discomfort, swelling and bruising are expected and often peak around 48-72 hours before easing. Most people manage symptoms with the recommended medications and cold packs. Contact us promptly if bleeding is heavy, persistent, or you’re worried for any reason.
Short-term (first 3 months)
Temporary altered sensation (e.g., lips or chin) can occur and may resolve over weeks to months. As swelling settles and your bite adapts, provisional bridge adjustments may be required.
Longer-term possibilities
Complications can occur, including implant failure (which may require removal and later replacement), infection around implants (peri-implant disease), or prosthetic maintenance/repairs over time. We monitor these at reviews and outline contingency plans in your treatment discussion.
Less common but serious risks
Nerve injury (possible persistent numbness), sinus involvement for upper implants, and anaesthesia/sedation-related complications. We review your medical history, obtain imaging where appropriate, and take precautions to reduce risk; individual responses vary.
Recovery roadmap (varies by person and job type)
Many people in desk-based roles return to work within several days; physical roles often need more time. A soft-food diet is typical early on, with a gradual return to firmer foods as advised by your clinician. Swelling commonly settles substantially by day 5-7. We provide after-hours contact details for urgent concerns. (Timeframes are guides, not guarantees.)
Setting you up for success
Daily cleaning under and around the bridge (specialised brushes/interdental aids or a water flosser) plus professional maintenance every 3-6 months helps maintain implant and bridge health. We offer smoking cessation support because smoking increases the risk of healing problems and implant complications.
Meet Dr Lily and Our Connolly Dental Team
Dr Lily (DEN0001820641) graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science from the University of Western Australia and has focused on restorative and implant dentistry for over 15 years. She regularly attends advanced training courses and is a member of the Australian Dental Association and Australian Society of Implant Dentistry. Her particular interest lies in helping patients transition from problematic dentures or failing teeth to confident, fixed solutions.
Why Patients Choose Our Connolly Dental Practice
- Established relationships with leading Perth dental laboratories for superior prosthetics
- IV sedation available with experienced dental anaesthetists when appropriate
- Convenient location near Mitchell Fwy, easily accessible from Joondalup, Currambine, Perth, and northern suburbs
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Arriving at our clinic 30 minutes before your scheduled time allows for relaxed preparation and final questions. We review your medical history, confirm fasting compliance if you’re having sedation, and ensure you’re completely comfortable proceeding. If you’ve chosen IV sedation, our dental anaesthetist explains the process and begins monitoring before Dr Lily starts your treatment.
The surgical phase typically takes 4-6 hours depending on extractions needed and whether you’re having single or double-arch treatment. (Labs cant get them made same day, usually 2 day turn around time) Before discharge with your responsible adult, we ensure you’re stable, comfortable, and understand your aftercare instructions completely.
Essential items for surgery day:
- Updated medication list including any recent changes
- Private health insurance card if you’re claiming benefits
- Completed fasting if having sedation (specific instructions provided at consultation)
- Pre-arranged responsible adult for transportation (mandatory if sedated)
Next steps – Book a Consultation
At your consultation we:
- Review your goals and medical history
- Examine your mouth and, if indicated, take 3D imaging
- Explain appropriate options, risks/benefits and timelines
- Provide a written, itemised plan for you to consider
Contact our Connolly reception to arrange a time that suits you.
COMPLIANCE, AUTHORSHIP & REVIEW
Authorship/Review: Content reviewed by Dr Lily (DEN0001820641), registered dentist – Last reviewed: 31 August 2025. Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis. You will receive personalised advice after an examination. You may wish to seek a second opinion. Images: Clinical images are of our own patients with consent for advertising use. Outcomes vary. Advertising notes: No testimonials, inducements or guarantees are used. Therapeutic devices are described neutrally and factually. Comments/reviews are disabled on this page.