For patients who have lost most or all of their teeth, or who are facing that prospect, the idea of dental implants can feel overwhelming. Multiple implants, multiple surgeries, a cost that seems eye-watering. All-on-4 was designed to change that picture. It is one of the most significant developments in implant dentistry of the last two decades, and it is available at Dream Smiles Dental right here in Bolton.
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a full-arch tooth replacement technique that uses just four strategically placed dental implants to support a complete fixed set of teeth. Rather than placing one implant per missing tooth (which would require anywhere from ten to fourteen implants per arch), four implants are positioned at angles that maximise contact with the available bone. A full bridge of teeth is then secured on top.
The result is a permanent, fixed set of teeth. Not a denture you take out at night. Not something that relies on adhesive or suction. A fixed, stable, natural-feeling set of teeth anchored firmly in your jaw.
Why Four Implants Rather Than More?
The angled placement of the two rear implants in an All-on-4 case is the key to why fewer implants are needed. By tilting the posterior implants, the technique engages a greater volume of bone and distributes the load more effectively. This approach was developed and refined over decades of clinical research, and the long-term success rates are well documented.
It also means that patients who have experienced some bone loss, which is common in people who have been without teeth for some time, may still be suitable for All-on-4 without needing extensive bone grafting first. This is one of its most important advantages over traditional full-arch implant approaches.
What Does the Treatment Involve?
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation, including digital imaging to assess your bone volume and plan the implant positions precisely. At Dream Smiles Dental, named Best Dental Practice UK 2025 at the Private Dentistry Awards, that planning stage is taken seriously. Dr Divyesh Sonigra leads our implant and sedation cases and brings considerable expertise to complex full-arch treatments.
On the day of surgery, the four implants are placed and a temporary fixed bridge is fitted. You leave with teeth. Over the following months, the implants integrate with the bone through osseointegration. Once healing is complete, your final permanent bridge is fitted. Most patients describe the final result as feeling completely natural within a short period of adjustment.
How Much Does All-on-4 Cost?
A single arch All-on-4 treatment is priced at £15,000 at Dream Smiles Dental. For patients wanting both upper and lower arches treated, our dual arch All-on-4 is £28,000. These figures cover the full treatment journey from consultation through to your final permanent bridge.
Finance is available, allowing patients to spread the cost over up to five years. For many patients, the monthly payment figure feels far more manageable than the headline cost, and our team will walk you through all available options at your consultation.
All-on-4 vs Conventional Dentures
The comparison is not really close. Conventional full dentures restore around 25% of natural chewing function. They can slip, require adhesive, and gradually become looser as bone recedes beneath them. All-on-4 gives you fixed teeth. You chew, laugh, and speak without thinking about your teeth. That is exactly what dental treatment should achieve.
Patients who have spent years managing with full dentures consistently report that the change in quality of life after All-on-4 treatment is significant. Foods that have been avoided for years become accessible again. Confidence in social situations returns.
Is All-on-4 Right for You?
The best way to find out is through a proper clinical assessment. If you have lost most or all of your teeth, or are planning extractions, and want to understand whether All-on-4 is suitable for your situation, we would love to help you explore the options.
Book a free e-consult at calendly.com/dreamsmilesdental-info/freeconsultation, visit dreamsmilesdental.co.uk, WhatsApp us at wa.me/+441204964678, or call 01204 964678. Your dream smile, fixed, confident, and permanent, may be closer than you think.