Implants
Who Is a Good Candidate for All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 is a way to replace a full upper or lower arch of teeth with a fixed bridge supported by a small number of dental implants. For the right patient it can mean teeth that stay in place, no adhesives, and a more confident smile. But it is not right for everyone, and knowing where you stand starts with a few questions.
Who All-on-4 often suits: - People missing most or all of their teeth in one or both arches - People with many failing, broken, or loose teeth that are not worth saving - Denture wearers frustrated with slipping, sore spots, or adhesives - People who want fixed teeth instead of a removable appliance
What about bone loss? After teeth are lost, the jawbone can shrink. All-on-4 designs often place implants at angles to make better use of the bone that remains, which is one reason some patients told they lacked bone for implants may still have options. Your 3D imaging is what tells us for sure. For more detail, read [dental implants with bone loss](/blog/dental-implants-with-bone-loss).
Things that can affect candidacy: - Active gum disease or infection, which needs to be treated first - Uncontrolled diabetes or other health conditions that affect healing - Smoking, which can raise the risk of implant problems - Certain medications, which we review as part of your health history
Many of these do not rule you out. They may simply mean an extra step before treatment.
How candidacy is actually decided. No article can tell you if All-on-4 is right for you. That takes an exam, a review of your health history, and 3D imaging of your jaw. At Hi-Fidelity Dental, Dr. Anthony Bianco, DMD walks you through what he sees and the options that fit, including alternatives such as implant-supported dentures or individual implants.
What about cost? Full-arch treatment is priced per arch. See our guide to [comparing dental implant quotes in Elmhurst](/blog/dental-implant-cost-elmhurst-il-comparing-quotes), and our [patient financing](/patient-financing) options.
Learn more on our [All-on-4 page](/implants/all-on-4) and [dental implants in Elmhurst](/implants) page, or call (847) 908-8826 to schedule a consult.
Frequently asked
Am I too old for All-on-4?
Age alone usually is not the deciding factor. Overall health, healing ability, and bone are more important, and these are reviewed at your consult.
Can I get All-on-4 if I have worn dentures for years?
Often, yes. Long-term denture wearers may have bone loss, but angled implant placement and 3D planning can still make full-arch implants possible for many patients.
How do I find out if I qualify?
Schedule a consult. An exam, health history review, and 3D imaging are needed to confirm candidacy.