All-on-4 vs. Fix-on-Six: Which Full-Arch Option Fits Your Smile? [Video Q&A]

If you’re missing all your teeth, you may have heard of All-on-4 as a replacement option. All-on-4 uses four conventional dental implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. However, it isn’t your only option. Fix-on-Six® uses multiple mini dental implants to support a semi-removable bridge. Both approaches replace an entire arch of missing teeth and may work for patients with bone loss, but they use different implants and placement strategies to accommodate narrower jawbones.

At Hazzouri Dental in Scranton, PA, Dr. Albert Hazzouri Jr., Dr. Louis Genello, and Dr. Andrew Knott offer both conventional and mini implant-supported solutions. We understand that both All-on-4 and Fix-on-Six have their place in dentistry, and we’re happy to explain the differences and help you understand which option may work best for you during a free consultation.

What Is an All-on-4?

All-on-4 is a full-arch implant solution supported by four conventional dental implants. The implants support a fixed bridge that stays securely in place during daily life, but one of our dentists can remove it when necessary for repairs, treatment, or cleaning that cannot be completed adequately with the bridge in place.

The All-on-4 system is designed to maximize support for the false teeth while minimizing the number of implants required. Typically, one of our dentists places two implants toward the front of the jaw and two farther back. The two back implants are typically angled to make use of available bone and may reduce the need for bone grafting.

Because of this placement approach, All-on-4 may be an option for some patients with bone loss. However, you still need enough suitable bone to support the implants.

Moreover, while this system is effective, Dr. Hazzouri finds that distributing bite force across just four implants may increase the risk of implant damage over time. That’s why, in some situations, he may recommend a solution with more implants, like Fix-on-Six.

What Is a Fix-on-Six?

Fix-on-Six is a full-arch restoration supported by 6 to 10 mini dental implants, depending on your available bone and treatment needs. It is considered a semi-removable solution, meaning it stays fixed in place, but one of our dentists can still remove it for maintenance.

Dr. Hazzouri finds that this design provides excellent stability and distributes loads more evenly when you bite and chew.

Like All-on-4, Fix-on-Six can also work for patients with bone loss in some cases. This system accommodates some narrower jawbones by using smaller-diameter implants, rather than relying primarily on angled conventional implants.

Full-arch replacement systems that use mini dental implants also come with cost benefits. Restorations that use mini implants tend to be more affordable than those that use conventional implants.

All-on-4 vs. Fix-on-Six: Differences Patients Should Know

All-on-4 and Fix-on-Six give you two options to replace all your missing teeth. Here are the key differences that may make one a better option for you.

Implant Number

All-on-4 uses four conventional dental implants, while Fix-on-Six uses 6 to 10 smaller-diameter mini implants positioned across the arch. The additional implants in Fix-on-Six provide more support for the roundhouse bridge, and Dr. Hazzouri finds Fix-on-Six distributes bite pressure more evenly than All-on-4.

Implant Type and Placement

All-on-4 uses conventional dental implants that our dentists must place through a multi-phase surgical process. However, the All-on-4 system lets our dentists adjust the angle of some implants to fit your anatomy exactly. In some cases, we can attach a temporary bridge on the day of implant placement (called immediate loading), with the final restoration provided later. In contrast, Fix-on-Six uses mini dental implants that our dentists can place with a minimally invasive process in a single day. Mini implants also secure vertically into the jawbone.

Maintanance

Professional maintenance differs between the systems. Our dentists can remove an All-on-4 roundhouse bridge when clinically necessary. On the other hand, our dentists routinely remove Fix-on-Six during maintenance visits, allowing access to the implants and attachments. With either option, regular examinations and cleanings help us monitor your oral health and address problems early.

Treatment Cost

Compared to All-on-4, Fix-on-Six may offer a more affordable approach to full-arch replacement. Mini implants generally cost less than conventional implants and may reduce the need for additional procedures, such as bone grafting. Together, these savings can make a substantial difference: Dr. Hazzouri finds that mini implant-supported restorations like Fix-on-Six can cost up to half as much as conventional implant-supported options in some cases.

Your total cost depends on your treatment needs, including extractions and any other preparation our dentists need to do before your restoration.

Book a Free Consultation

The differences between All-on-4 and Fix-on-Six might leave you with a lot to consider before moving forward. But you don’t have to choose alone! Our dentists can explain what makes the most sense for your oral health and budget.

At Hazzouri Dental in Scranton, PA, our dentists offer both conventional and mini dental implant solutions. During your free, personalized consultation, we’ll evaluate your needs, take imaging, and explain which options may work for you. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and understand our recommendations before making a decision.

Schedule your free consultation today.