All-on-4 Dental Implants in Tacoma
All-on-4 Dental Implants in South Tacoma: Full Arch Restoration
All-on-4 Benefits:
All-on-4 replaces all upper or lower teeth using just four implants per arch — a more affordable, often same-day solution that usually avoids bone grafting thanks to strategic implant angling. The result is a permanent, fixed set of teeth that never comes out. We proudly serve South Tacoma, Graham, Roy, Spanaway, Frederickson, Eatonville, and JBLM families.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 is a full arch restoration technique using four dental implants to support a complete set of fixed replacement teeth. Two implants are placed vertically at the front where bone is denser, while two angle posteriorly at 30-45 degrees to maximize bone contact and avoid the sinuses and nerves.
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry,this often eliminates the need for bone grafting required by traditional approaches.
A custom prosthesis of 10-14 replacement teeth attaches to these four implants, creating a permanent restoration that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth — unlike removable dentures, it stays firmly in place for cleaning and sleeping.
All-on-4 vs. Traditional Implants
Fewer Implants Needed
Traditional full arch restoration requires 6-8 implants per arch, sometimes more. All-on-4 achieves excellent stability with just four implants, reducing surgical complexity, healing time, and overall cost while still providing strong, functional results.
Strategic Angulation
The posterior implants' 30-45 degree angle allows longer implants where vertical bone height is limited, while distributing chewing forces efficiently across the arch — the key to All-on-4's stability.
Often Avoids Bone Grafting
Traditional approaches frequently require extensive bone grafting, adding months to treatment and cost. All-on-4's strategic design usually avoids this by utilizing existing bone — though some cases still benefit from minor grafting or a sinus lift, which we perform in-house.
Learn more about Bone Grafting & Sinus Lifts →
All-on-X: Customized Solutions Beyond All-on-4
While All-on-4 uses four implants per arch, some patients benefit from All-on-5 or All-on-6 based on bone quality, jaw anatomy, and bite forces — we determine the right number during your comprehensive 3D evaluation.
All-on-5: Five implants provide enhanced stability, particularly beneficial for patients with moderate bone loss or higher bite forces.
All-on-6: Six implants offer maximum stability and longevity, ideal for patients with excellent bone quality who want the strongest possible foundation.
The All-on-4 Treatment Process
1. Evaluation & Planning
A 3D cone beam CT scan maps your bone density, anatomy, and nerve locations, letting us virtually plan implant positions, angles, and surgical guides before surgery. Research confirms detailed 3D planning significantly improves All-on-4 success rates.
2. Preparatory Procedures (If Needed)
Remaining teeth are extracted during the surgery appointment. Most patients don't need bone grafting, though some benefit from minor grafting or a sinus lift.
3. Surgery & Same-Day Teeth
In one 2-3 hour appointment per arch, your dentist places all four implants in their pre-planned positions under local anesthesia (sedation available). Most patients leave the same day with a temporary prosthesis, restoring function and appearance during the 3-6 month healing period.
4. Healing & Final Placement
Over 3-6 months, bone fuses with the implants through osseointegration. Once healing is complete, we take impressions for your final prosthesis — a durable titanium or zirconia framework with natural-looking porcelain or composite teeth.
Who Benefits from All-on-4?
All-on-4 is ideal for patients already wearing dentures who want fixed, stable teeth, those with extensive decay or failing dental work across most teeth, and long-term denture wearers frustrated with slipping, sore spots, or limited food choices. It's also a strong option for patients told they lack enough bone for traditional implants — thanks to All-on-4's angled placement — or anyone wanting fixed teeth without a lengthy treatment timeline.
Caring for Your All-on-4 Restoration
Daily Care
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush, and use a water flosser to clean beneath the prosthesis and around implants — the CDC confirms this is essential for success. Attend cleanings every 4-6 months so your hygienist can reach areas you can't at home.
Protect Your Restoration
Avoid hard foods like ice, hard candy, or nutshells, and wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth — both can chip or crack the prosthesis. Otherwise, most patients eat normally, including foods impossible with traditional dentures.
All-on-4 Success Rates and Longevity
All-on-4 implants have 95-98% success rates when placed by experienced dentists in appropriate candidates. The technique's strategic design and immediate loading protocol have been refined over 20+ years, producing highly predictable results.
With proper care, All-on-4 implants can last 20-30+ years, often a lifetime. The prosthesis itself typically needs replacement or refurbishment every 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the implants remain stable. This longevity far exceeds traditional dentures requiring replacement or relining every 5-7 years.
Why Choose Davis Dental Group
- Advanced 3D Scanning Technology: Precise imaging for accurate treatment planning.
- Walk-Ins Welcome: Stop by our Tacoma office anytime — no appointment needed.
- Same-Day Consultations: Available when scheduling allows.
- Free Consultations: Expert guidance with no obligation.
- Comprehensive Care in One Location: From consultation to final treatment, all under one roof — no referrals needed
- Experienced Team:Dedicated to your comfort throughout treatment.
Related Services
Dental Implants - Explore all your implant options, including single tooth and full arch solutions.
Dental Cleanings - Regular maintenance essential for long-term All-on-4 success.
Restore Your Full Smile with All-on-4
Replace an entire arch with just four implants at Davis Dental Group in South Tacoma, often with same-day temporary teeth. Serving South Tacoma, Graham, Roy, Spanaway, Frederickson, Eatonville, and JBLM families.
Schedule Your Free All-on-4 Consultation
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Most PPO insurances accepted.
