All-on-4 vs
Traditional Implants
Considering dental implants but unsure whether All-on-4 or traditional implants are right for you? Both are excellent long-term solutions — the best option depends on how many teeth you need to replace and your individual clinical situation.
Single Implant
From £2,950
Implant-Retained Denture
From £5,500
Consultation
FREE
If you are missing several or all of your teeth, you may be weighing up whether dental implants placed individually or an All-on-4 full-arch solution is the better choice for you.
Both treatments use titanium implants that fuse permanently with your jawbone — the difference lies in how many implants are placed and how the replacement teeth are attached. All-on-4 supports an entire arch of teeth on just four strategically angled implants, while traditional implants replace each missing tooth with its own individual implant and crown.
The right option depends on the number of teeth you need to replace, your bone levels and your clinical goals. Whether you are exploring a complete smile makeover or a single replacement as part of your general dental care, your dentist will recommend the most appropriate approach following a thorough examination. Below, we compare both so you can arrive at your consultation well informed.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
All-on-4 full-arch implants vs traditional individual dental implants — side by side.
| Feature | All-on-4 | Traditional Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Implants | 4 implants per arch | 1 implant per missing tooth |
| Coverage | Full arch (10–14 teeth per arch) | Single tooth, multiple teeth or full arch |
| Procedure Type | Surgical — implants placed at specific angles for maximum bone contact | Surgical — individual implant placed vertically into the jawbone |
| Treatment Time | Temporary teeth often fitted same day; final restoration 3–6 months | 3–6 months per implant (healing period before crown fitted) |
| Structural Support | Angled posterior implants maximise bone contact; bone grafting rarely required | Each implant integrates independently; bone grafting may be needed |
| Aesthetics | Full arch of natural-looking teeth — uniform, custom-designed result | Individual crowns matched to surrounding teeth — natural appearance |
| Cost at Our Clinic | Implant-retained denture from £5,500 (per arch) | From £2,950 per single implant (inc. crown) |
| Longevity | Implants designed for long-term use; prosthesis may need replacing after 15–20 years | Implants designed for long-term use; crowns may need replacing after 15–25 years |
| Suitability | Patients missing most or all teeth in an arch, or with failing dentition | Patients missing one, several or all teeth with adequate bone volume |
Treatment recommendations depend on individual clinical assessment. All prices confirmed before treatment begins.
Treatment Overview
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a full-arch implant solution that replaces an entire row of teeth — typically 10 to 14 teeth — using just four titanium implants per jaw. Two implants are placed vertically at the front of the arch, and two are placed at an angle towards the back. This angled placement maximises contact with available bone, which often eliminates the need for bone grafting.
A fixed, non-removable prosthesis (a complete arch of teeth) is then attached to the implants. In many cases, a temporary set of teeth can be fitted on the same day as surgery, so you leave the clinic with functional teeth. The final, permanent prosthesis is fitted after 3–6 months of healing.
At Dental Clinic London, an implant-retained denture starts from £5,500. We offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can discuss your options with no cost and no obligation.
All-on-4 May Be Suitable If You
- Are missing most or all teeth in one or both jaws
- Have failing teeth that cannot be saved
- Currently wear dentures and want a fixed alternative
- Have been told you lack sufficient bone for individual implants
- Want to restore full chewing function with fewer implants
- Prefer a single procedure rather than multiple individual implant surgeries
Treatment Overview
What Are Traditional Dental Implants?
Traditional dental implants replace each missing tooth individually. A single titanium implant is placed into the jawbone, and after a healing period of 3–6 months (during which the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration), a custom-made porcelain crown is attached.
For patients missing multiple adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge uses two or more implants to support a row of connected crowns — reducing the total number of implants needed. This approach is part of our wider restorative dentistry offering.
At Dental Clinic London, a single dental implant including the crown costs from £2,950. An implant-supported bridge costs from £2,950 per unit. A free 15-minute implant consultation is available so you can explore your options with no obligation.
Traditional Implants May Be Suitable If You
- Are missing one or a few teeth
- Want each replacement tooth to be completely independent
- Have good bone density in the areas where teeth are missing
- Want maximum flexibility — treat one area now, another later
- Prefer individual porcelain crowns matched precisely to your natural teeth
- Have healthy adjacent teeth that you want to preserve (unlike a bridge)
Understanding the Difference
Key Differences Explained
Number of Implants Used
All-on-4 uses exactly four implants to support a full arch of 10–14 teeth. Traditional implants use one implant per missing tooth — meaning a full arch could require 8–14 individual implants. Implant-supported bridges reduce this by spanning gaps with fewer implants.
Treatment Complexity and Time
All-on-4 is typically completed in fewer appointments, with temporary teeth often fitted on the same day as surgery. Traditional implants require separate surgical appointments for each implant, with 3–6 months healing per implant before crowns are fitted. For full arch restoration, All-on-4 is generally a faster pathway.
Healing and Recovery
Both treatments involve a surgical procedure under local anaesthetic with a healing period. All-on-4 patients often leave with temporary teeth the same day, while traditional implant patients may wear a temporary restoration during the 3–6 month osseointegration period. Post-operative discomfort is managed with standard painkillers in both cases.
Longevity and Maintenance
The titanium implants in both treatments are designed for long-term use. Individual porcelain crowns (traditional) may need replacing after 15–25 years. Full-arch prostheses (All-on-4) may need replacing after 15–20 years. Both require good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure long-term success.
Cost
For full arch replacement, All-on-4 is typically more cost-effective — using 4 implants instead of 8–14. At our clinic, an implant-retained denture starts from £5,500 while individual implants cost from £2,950 each (inc. crown). For single or few missing teeth, individual implants are more appropriate and cost-effective.
Suitability Based on Tooth Loss
All-on-4 is designed for patients who have lost, or are about to lose, most or all teeth in an arch. Traditional implants are suitable for any level of tooth loss — from a single missing tooth to a full mouth. Your dentist will assess your bone levels, gum health and clinical needs to recommend the right approach.
Weighing Up
Pros and Cons
All-on-4 · From £5,500
Advantages
- Replaces a full arch of teeth with only 4 implants — fewer surgical sites
- Temporary teeth can often be fitted on the same day as surgery
- Angled implants maximise existing bone — bone grafting rarely needed
- Lower overall cost than replacing every tooth individually
- Fixed, non-removable restoration — no adhesive or slipping
- Restores full chewing function and natural appearance
Limitations
- Suitable for full arch replacement only — not for single missing teeth
- The acrylic prosthesis may need replacing after 15–20 years
- Requires sufficient bone in the front of the jaw for implant placement
- Irreversible procedure — remaining teeth in the arch are extracted
Traditional Implants · From £2,950
Advantages
- Replace one tooth, several teeth or an entire arch — maximum flexibility
- Each implant is independent — if one has an issue, others are unaffected
- Individual porcelain crowns closely match natural teeth
- Preserves jawbone at each implant site, preventing bone loss
- 95–98% success rate over 10 years — among the most predictable procedures in dentistry (published literature)
- No damage to adjacent healthy teeth (unlike a bridge)
Limitations
- Replacing a full arch individually requires more implants — higher overall cost
- Each implant requires 3–6 months healing before the crown is fitted
- Bone grafting or sinus lift may be needed if bone volume is insufficient
- Multiple surgical appointments for patients needing many teeth replaced
Transparent Pricing
Dental Implant Prices
All prices below are from the Dental Clinic London fee guide. A written treatment plan with confirmed costs is always provided before any treatment begins.
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| Free Short Implant Consultation (15 min)Meet a dentist, discuss your options — no obligation | FREE |
| Single Dental Implant (inc. Crown)Titanium implant, abutment & porcelain crown | From £2,950 |
| Implant-Supported Bridge (per unit)Replace multiple teeth with fewer implants | From £2,950 |
| Implant-Retained Denture (All-on-4)Full or partial denture stabilised by implants | From £5,500 |
| Bone Graft (if required)Build jawbone volume before implant placement | From £750 |
| Sinus Lift (if required)Upper jaw bone augmentation | From £1,200 |
All prices confirmed before treatment begins. No hidden fees. 0% finance available on selected treatments, subject to status. View our complete fee guide for all treatment pricing.
Making Your Decision
Which Option Is Best for You?
The most appropriate option depends on your individual clinical situation. Here is a general guide — your dentist will confirm the best approach following examination.
Best for Full Arch Replacement
All-on-4 · From £5,500If you are missing most or all teeth in an arch — or have failing teeth that need to be extracted — All-on-4 provides a complete, fixed set of teeth using just four implants. It is typically faster and more affordable than replacing every tooth with an individual implant. Temporary teeth can often be fitted the same day.
Best for Single or Multiple Teeth
Traditional Implants · From £2,950If you are missing one tooth, a few teeth or have gaps in different areas, individual implants offer maximum flexibility. Each implant is independent, and treatment can be staged over time. Implant-supported bridges can efficiently replace several adjacent missing teeth with fewer implants.
Best for Long-Term Flexibility
Traditional Implants · From £2,950Traditional implants allow you to treat individual teeth or areas independently. If an issue arises with one implant, the others are unaffected. You can also add more implants in the future if needed. This flexibility makes them the preferred choice for patients who are not missing an entire arch.
Best for Affordability (Full Arch)
All-on-4 · From £5,500For patients who need all teeth replaced in one arch, All-on-4 is significantly more cost-effective than individual implants. Four implants support the full arch, compared to 8–14 individual implants for the same coverage. All-on-4 also avoids bone grafting in most cases, reducing additional costs. A free 15-minute consultation is available to discuss your options.
An alternative to both is a traditional denture or a dental bridge — your dentist at Dental Clinic London will explain all available options during your consultation.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Have another question? Contact our team and we will be happy to help.
Not Sure Which Implant Option Is Right for You?
Book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our experienced private dentists. We will assess your situation, explain your options clearly and recommend the most appropriate treatment — with no obligation and no pressure.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute personalised dental advice. Individual diagnosis and treatment recommendations require a clinical examination by a qualified dental professional. All treatment outcomes vary by patient. Prices shown are starting prices and may vary depending on complexity. Dental Clinic London is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the General Dental Council (GDC).