All-on-6 is a full-arch dental implant solution that uses six strategically placed implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth on either the.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-06
9 min read
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Content is educational and planning-oriented. It does not replace diagnosis, treatment, or personalized medical advice from a licensed healthcare professional. Outcomes vary by individual case.
This content is general education and does not replace evaluation by a licensed clinician. If you have symptoms, complications, or urgent concerns, seek in-person medical care.
Key takeaways
All-on-6 uses six implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth—different from individual implants or dentures.
Success depends on bone density, oral health, and systemic factors like diabetes management and smoking status.
Smoking increases failure rates significantly (11% vs 5% for non-smokers)—cessation is strongly recommended.
A thorough pre-operative assessment is essential—skip providers who skip this step.
This checklist helps you prepare for consultation but does not replace professional evaluation.
What Is All-on-6 and How Does It Work?
All-on-6 is a full-arch dental implant solution that uses six strategically placed implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth on either the upper or lower jaw. Unlike individual implants that replace each tooth separately, All-on-6 provides a fixed, full-arch prosthesis with just six implant points—making it a more efficient option for patients missing most or all of their teeth in one arch.
The treatment typically involves three to four stages: a pre-operative assessment, implant placement surgery, a healing period, and the final restorative work. According to NHS Guy's and St Thomas, total treatment could take six to twelve months depending on individual healing and whether bone grafting is needed.
All-on-6 differs from traditional dentures in that the prosthesis is permanently fixed to the implants, providing greater stability and function. It also differs from All-on-4, which uses only four implants and may not be suitable for patients with higher bite forces or specific bone conditions.
For patients considering their options, our dental treatment options page provides additional context on different approaches to full-arch tooth replacement. You can also browse our dental resource hub for more information on dental procedures and considerations.
Are You a Candidate for All-on-6 Implants?
Candidacy for All-on-6 depends on several factors that affect both the success of the implants and the long-term stability of the prosthesis. Understanding these factors helps you have a more productive consultation with your provider.
Bone Density Requirements
Adequate bone quantity and quality in the jaw is essential for All-on-6 success. The six implants must have sufficient bone to integrate with (a process called osseointegration). Patients who have experienced significant bone loss due to long-term tooth loss may require bone grafting before implants can be placed.
Your dentist will use 3D imaging (CBCT scans) to evaluate your bone density, volume, and quality. This pre-operative assessment is critical—providers who skip this step should be viewed with caution.
Oral Health Prerequisites
Good gum health is a prerequisite for implant success. Active gum disease (periodontitis) must be treated before implant placement, as it can lead to peri-implantitis—a serious infection around the implant that may cause failure.
Your provider should evaluate:
Presence of active infection
Gum tissue health
Oral hygiene habits
History of gum disease
Systemic Health Considerations
Your overall health significantly impacts implant candidacy and healing. According to Mayo Clinic, overall health is an important factor in determining whether you are a good candidate for dental implants and how long it will take to heal.
Key systemic factors include:
Diabetes: Well-controlled diabetes (typically HbA1c below 8) is generally acceptable; poorly controlled diabetes increases complication risk
Smoking: Strongly impacts healing and long-term success
Bisphosphonate use: Requires special evaluation before implant placement
Radiation therapy: Previous radiation to the jaw requires careful assessment
Immunosuppression: May affect healing and infection risk
Key Risk Factors to Understand
All surgical procedures carry risks. Understanding these factors helps you make an informed decision and discuss them thoroughly with your provider.
General Risks
According to NHS Guy's and St Thomas, dental implant procedures carry a small risk that the dental implants might not join properly with the bone in your jaw. Additionally, parts can loosen or wear out over time, requiring maintenance or replacement.
Other potential complications include infection at the implant site, injury to surrounding structures, nerve damage, and sinus problems (particularly for upper jaw implants).
NHS Guy's and St Thomas provides a strong recommendation to stop smoking before the procedure. Ideally, patients should quit several weeks before surgery and remain smoke-free during the healing period.
Diabetes and Implant Healing
Diabetes affects implant healing, particularly during the first year of functional loading. Research indicates more failures in diabetic patients during the 1st year of functional loading. Well-controlled blood sugar levels (typically measured by HbA1c) are associated with better outcomes.
If you have diabetes, discuss your management plan with both your physician and your dental implant provider before proceeding.
Excellent oral hygiene becomes even more critical long-term
Results Vary
Every patient's situation is unique. These risk factors increase probability of complications but do not guarantee any particular outcome. A thorough evaluation by a qualified professional is essential to assess your individual risk profile.
Questions to Ask Your Dental Implant Provider
Being prepared with the right questions helps you evaluate providers and make an informed decision. Don't hesitate to ask for written answers or documentation.
Surgeon Credentials and Experience
What are your qualifications and training in implant dentistry?
How many All-on-6 procedures have you performed?
Can you provide before-and-after photos of previous patients?
What is your success rate, and how do you define success?
Facility and Technology
Is the facility accredited, and by whom?
What imaging technology do you use for planning (CBCT, guided surgery)?
What brand of implants do you use, and why?
What happens if there are complications during or after the procedure?
Treatment Protocol
What does the pre-operative assessment include?
Will I need bone grafting, and if so, why?
What is the expected timeline for my specific case?
What does the healing process look like, and what restrictions apply?
Logistics and Support
What is included in the quoted price, and what might add additional cost?
What is your follow-up protocol?
How do you handle issues that arise after I return home?
What is your emergency contact process for international patients?
Our accredited facilities page provides additional context on what to look for in a dental facility, and you can learn more about our dental specialists who perform these procedures.
Pre-Treatment Checklist
Use this checklist to prepare for your consultation and treatment. Being prepared helps ensure nothing is overlooked.
Medical Documentation to Gather
[ ] Recent medical history, including any chronic conditions
[ ] Current medications list (including supplements)
[ ] Previous dental records and X-rays (if available)
[ ] Recent blood work results (if you have diabetes or other conditions)
[ ] Any relevant physician letters clearing you for surgery
Lifestyle Preparations
[ ] Begin smoking cessation program—ideally several weeks before surgery
[ ] Optimize diabetes management (work with your physician on HbA1c targets)
[ ] Review and optimize oral hygiene habits before treatment
[ ] Plan for recovery time—avoid scheduling immediately after travel
Financial Considerations
[ ] Get a detailed written quote explaining what is included
[ ] Understand payment terms and accepted methods
[ ] Check what is covered by any existing insurance
[ ] Budget for potential additional costs (medications, follow-up visits)
For Medical Travelers
[ ] Understand visa requirements for your treatment destination
[ ] Plan adequate recovery time before returning home
[ ] Arrange follow-up care with a local provider if needed
[ ] Understand the provider's protocol for post-travel complications
Our medical travel services team can help you plan logistics if you're considering treatment in Istanbul.
Red Flags That Should Give You Pause
Watch for these warning signs when evaluating providers. A reputable provider will welcome these questions and provide clear answers.
Guarantees of success: No ethical provider can guarantee 100% success. Be wary of "perfect record" claims.
No pre-operative assessment: A thorough evaluation including imaging is essential. Providers who skip this are cutting corners.
Pressure tactics: You should never feel rushed into a decision. Take your time to evaluate options.
No before-and-after cases: Reputable providers maintain photo documentation of their work.
Vague or missing follow-up plans: Long-term success requires ongoing care. Providers should have a clear protocol.
Unusually low prices: Quality implants, equipment, and expertise have associated costs. Prices significantly below market rate may indicate compromises in materials or expertise.
No clear emergency protocol: Providers should have a plan for complications, especially for international patients.
Take your time with this decision. A reputable provider will expect you to get second opinions and ask many questions.
What to Expect During Recovery
Understanding the recovery process helps you plan appropriately and recognize what is normal versus what requires attention.
Immediate Post-Surgery (First Week)
Swelling and bruising are common and typically peak within 48-72 hours
Pain is usually manageable with prescribed or recommended medications
A soft-food diet is required during initial healing
Oral hygiene instructions must be followed carefully to prevent infection
Healing Period (Weeks to Months)
The implants need time to integrate with the bone—this typically takes several months. During this time:
Follow your provider's specific instructions for oral care
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
Avoid habits that could compromise healing (smoking, hard foods)
Report any unusual symptoms promptly
Long-Term Maintenance
According to NHS Guy's and St Thomas, dental implants are long-lasting replacements if you care for them properly. However, ongoing maintenance is essential:
Regular dental check-ups (at least annually)
Excellent daily oral hygiene
Professional cleanings as recommended
Monitoring for signs of complications
Use this checklist as a starting point for your All-on-6 journey. The more prepared you are, the better positioned you'll be to evaluate providers and make an informed decision about your treatment.
2.“Risks and complications associated with dental implant failure: Critical update.” National Journal of Maxillofacial Surgery. 2020. Accessed 2026-02-21.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7518499/
