All-on-4® Procedure FAQ's
What does All-on-4® mean?
All-on-4® is the name of the procedure invented by Professor Paulo Malo who established this advanced protocol for the treatment of patients who have dentures that they are unhappy with and want a better solution and for patients that have a terminal dentition from either dental decay or gum disease. The process involves only four implants to support an entire bridge of teeth.
Not all people with periodontal disease or dental decay require All-on-4® treatment. With many patients we can restore the teeth and treat the gum disease for many years. All-on-4® should not be considered a treatment of choice based on shorter treatment times or cost. At Next Smile Australia we believe we should not be removing good restorable teeth.
Are All-on-4® denture alternatives?
Yes, All-on-4® can be an alternative to dentures, but they are not the same thing.
The All-on-4 treatment concept is a full-arch dental implant solution designed to replace an entire upper or lower set of teeth using four strategically placed implants to support a fixed bridge. Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on the gums and can move or require adhesives, All-on-4® teeth are fixed in place and secured to dental implants. How All-on-4® differs from traditional dentures?
Stability
Traditional dentures rest on the gums and may shift when eating or speaking. All-on-4® is anchored to implants, providing significantly greater stability.
Comfort
Dentures can cause sore spots or rubbing over time. Because All-on-4® is supported by implants rather than sitting directly on the gums, many patients find it feels more secure and natural.
Function
With dentures, chewing efficiency can be reduced. All-on-4® is designed to restore stronger biting function, allowing patients to enjoy a wider range of foods.
Bone Preservation
When teeth are missing, jawbone shrinkage can occur. Dental implants used in All-on-4® stimulate the bone, which may help maintain bone structure over time — something dentures do not do.
So, are they a denture alternative? Yes. for patients who want a fixed, non-removable solution, All-on-4® is often considered a long-term alternative to removable dentures. However, suitability depends on individual factors such as bone quality, overall health, and treatment goals. A clinical assessment is always required to determine whether All-on-4® is appropriate.
What happens in your consultation?
Your All-on-4® consultation at Next Smile Australia is the first step toward restoring your smile. During your visit, you’ll meet with a member of our dental team to discuss your dental and medical history in a relaxed, supportive environment.
We’ll take detailed scans, digital impressions, and photographs to assess the condition of your teeth and jawbone. Based on this assessment, we’ll determine whether All-on-4® treatment may be suitable for you and, if so, outline a personalised treatment plan and discuss available payment options.
Are All-on-4® dental prosthetics?
Yes, the teeth used to replace your natural teeth are dental prosthetics. Your new set of teeth is made in Next Smile Australia’s dental labs while you’re undergoing treatment. Other forms of dental prosthetics include crowns, bridges, dentures and veneers.
Are All-on-4® dental implants permanent?
We would hope that implants last forever but in reality they may not. There are many external factors that may affect longevity. By assuming they do not last forever, you are more likely to be better prepared for the outcomes.
How many teeth are on All-on-4®?
All-on-4® protocol allows for four implants and 12 teeth. The basis of All-on-4® is you surgically use the available bone. It would be vary rate to have 14 teeth because the teeth would cantilever back from the last implant, causing potential fracture of the posterior implant and loosening of the abutment screws. Ideally you should have zero cantilever, but the Malo Protocol allows for a maximum of two teeth cantilevered if required.
How long does the All-on-4® procedure take?
Following your initial consultation with our experienced dental teams you will be provided with detailed treatment plans for your surgery and rehabilitation. Once you have made a decision on your treatment options you will be provided with a timeline for your treatment.
How soon will I receive teeth after All-on-4® surgery?
With the Next Smile Australia approach using the Malo Protocol, patients often receive a set of provisional teeth within 24 hours of implant surgery.
Are All-on-4® dental implants removable?
All-on-4® dental implants are “fixed” and are not meant to be removed. Unlike traditional dentures, which can be taken out, All-on-4® uses four titanium implants to support a full arch of teeth. The implants fuse with the jawbone, holding the bridge securely in place, so you can eat, speak, and smile confidently without removing them.
They differ from conventional implants because fewer implants are used to support an entire arch, making treatment quicker and less invasive. All-on-4® provides a stable, long-term solution for patients considering dentures or traditional implants.
How invasive is the All-on-4® treatment?
All-on-4® is considered a minimally invasive dental implant procedure. It involves surgically placing four titanium implants into the jawbone to support a full arch of teeth, but it typically requires fewer implants and no bone grafting, which reduces overall surgical complexity and recovery time compared with traditional implant methods.
The procedure is performed under anaesthetic, so patients usually do not feel pain during surgery, and any post-treatment discomfort is generally mild and temporary, such as swelling or a dull ache during healing.
In short, while All-on-4® does involve surgery, it is designed to be less invasive than many traditional full-mouth implant treatments.
Do I need to make lifestyle changes before All-on-4® surgery?
Yes. Your dental team may recommend avoiding alcohol, smoking, vaping, and recreational drugs before surgery, as these can affect healing and surgical outcomes.
All-on-4® Eligibility and Risks FAQ's
Am I a good candidate for All-on-4® dental implants?
Many factors may affect your suitability for the All-on-4® dental implant procedure.
To carefully assess your situation and determine your suitability, a Next Smile Australia dental surgeon will carefully examine your medical and dental health and history, carry out a detailed oral examination, including a CT scan of your jaw bones, photographic assessment and in many cases a digital preliminary imprint of your mouth.
Considering the results of your initial assessment, they will then recommend a tailor-made treatment solution for you.
Suitable dental implants for seniors?
Depending on how many missing teeth they have, the treatment could be a suitable solution for seniors. The implants are fixed and long lasting and designed to function and look like natural teeth.
How painful are All-on-4® dental implants?
Many people worry that All-on-4® dental implants might be painful, but the procedure is designed to be as comfortable as possible. The surgery can be performed under general anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the operation. Some patients experience mild soreness or swelling in the first few days after treatment, which can usually be managed with simple over-the-counter remedies.
All-on-4® is generally less uncomfortable than traditional restorative dental procedures because it often eliminates the need for bone grafting, reducing both surgery and recovery time. Most patients can return to work, socialising, and enjoying their new smile very quickly.
At Next Smile, your comfort is a priority. With careful anaesthetic, personalised post-operative care, and guidance on recovery, pain is usually minimal and short-lived. If you’re ready to regain your smile, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Do dental implants hurt?
With all surgery you should expect swelling, bruising and pain. The levels of each may vary in different patients but they will all range in mild to severe. To best deal with swelling you are presented medication (i.e. Anti-inflammatories) at the operation and post operatively. You will also be recommended to use ice packs over the first 48 hours to help reduce the effects of swelling and to elevate yourself while sleeping in the first 48 hours.
Pain is usually most noticeable in the first 48 hours. Pain relief will be discussed with you as part of your treatment plan and care. It is important to know that you will be numb after the procedure from local anaesthesia given to you during the surgery. At Next Smile Australia you’ll be in the hands of experienced dental surgeons and clinical team that is dedicated to your treatment.
Are All-on-4® dental implants safe?
At Next Smile Australia, safety of our patients is our priority. The two-bridge Malo Protocol we follow has been clinically proven over 25 years, resulting in a 98% success rate*. We only use TGA approved dental implants and materials.
Even if implants are placed by experienced professionals, there is no known way to determine if your body will accept them. So, careful analysis of your medical situation may assist in determining potential success rates.
What types of sports-related dental injuries can All-on-4® treat?
All-on-4® is designed for people who have lost most or all of their teeth due to severe sports-related trauma. It replaces a full arch of missing teeth with a fixed set of implant-supported teeth, restoring both function and appearance.
All-on-4® Cost FAQ's
How much does All-on-4® cost?
Understandably, this is one of our most frequently asked questions. During an initial All-on-4® consultation at a Next Smile Australia clinic near you, we fully examine your dental health and if we establish that All-on-4® is suitable for you, then we provide you with a detailed treatment plan and corresponding costs.
The All-on-4® GOLD treatment costs $27,990 for a single arch. Not included in this costing is the anaesthetic fees which are billed separately by the medical provider. Those fees will be quoted to you prior to your surgery and are eligible for Medicare rebates.
For more details on pricing and payment plans, please visit our pricing page.
All-on-4® Benefits FAQ's
What are the benefits of All-on-4®?
The main advantage of the All-on-4® procedure is that it allows you to carry out a full arch restoration without the need for bone grafting and to have immediate temporary teeth (immediate load).
It typically requires only one operation of shorter duration compared with other forms of full arch rehabilitation (fixed teeth) that may include bone grafting. The Next Smile Australia method has a high success rate, 95-98% in most individuals over a 10-year period*.
It is easy to maintain your hygiene utilising dental floss, waterpick and brush.
You can select the teeth aesthetics that you want and most importantly, you have the opportunity to try the teeth for three months during osseointegration (healing phase) before proceeding to the full titanium/acrylic teeth. If you break a tooth on your final prosthesis it is relatively quick and easy to repair.
Do All-on-4® dental implants look real?
All-on-4® teeth are long-lasting, designed to feel and function like normal teeth, and easy to clean and take care of. Just like a regular smile, you can look after your new teeth by brushing twice daily, flossing at least once, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. They operate like regular teeth and can be cleaned just like regular teeth, but do All-on-4® look real?
Yes, All-on-4® do jook real?” look like a natural, genuine smile. If you’ve had life-long dental issues, they may look better than your natural smile, giving you great teeth for the first time. In any case, people won’t be able to tell you’ve had dental implants. As far as appearances go, it will look like you have a beautiful set of teeth that you’ve looked after your whole life.
Do All-on-4® teeth feel natural?
Yes, All-on-4® teeth are designed to look, feel, and function much like natural teeth. Because they are securely fixed to dental implants and custom-made to suit your mouth, most patients find they feel stable and comfortable for everyday eating, speaking, and smiling.
One difference is that, unlike natural teeth, All-on-4® teeth don’t have nerve endings, so they don’t feel temperature or develop tooth decay. While this reduced sensitivity may feel unusual at first, many patients find it a welcome relief—especially if they previously experienced ongoing dental pain.
Overall, All-on-4® teeth are designed to closely replicate the function and appearance of natural teeth, helping you return to normal daily activities with confidence.
All-on-4® Aftercare & Maintenance FAQ's
How can I prepare my home for recovery after All-on-4® surgery?
Before surgery, it’s helpful to stock up on soft foods, organise a comfortable recovery space, and ensure essentials like water, medication, and your phone are easily accessible.
Will I need help after All-on-4® surgery?
Yes. It’s recommended to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from your surgery and assist you during the first stage of recovery.
What should I expect during All-on-4® recovery?
Some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal after surgery, particularly in the first 48 hours. Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments will help support healing.
Do dental implants last forever?
Dental implants are generally a long-term solution for your dental restoration. They do not last forever and the length of time they last may be affected by a number of circumstances.
Long term results may be dependent on your oral health habits, lifestyle and medications that you are taking now or in the future and your current and future medical health.
Does food get stuck under All-on-4® dental implants?
Yes, food can get stuck under your dental implants. However, your dentist can adjust the gap between your implants and your gums if this is affecting you. You will also be provided with cleaning and maintenance instructions to help you manage any food that may get stuck.
How do you clean All-on-4® dental implants?
The bridge of teeth can be cleaned by you on a daily basis. The regime will include use of a toothbrush, specialised dental floss and a water flosser. You will be given detailed instructions on how to carry out this regime at home and ongoing support to ensure you understand this process. You will need to have your All-on-4® professionally cleaned every 6 months.
Does sugar affect All-on-4® teeth?
Although All-on-4® teeth cannot decay like natural teeth, sugar can still have harmful effects. It promotes the growth of bacteria and plaque, which can lead to gum inflammation, peri-implantitis, and even implant failure if not properly managed. Sugar also creates an acidic environment in the mouth that can gradually compromise the stability of the implants, particularly during the critical healing and recovery period. Additionally, excessive sugar intake can affect overall health, as conditions like diabetes reduce the body’s ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of complications and slowing recovery after All-on-4® treatment.
Do I still need to see a dental hygienist after getting All-on-4®?
Yes, you should still see a dental hygienist after getting All-on-4® treatment. Regular professional cleans and check-ups help remove plaque and bacteria around the implants, monitor gum health, and ensure your prosthetic teeth and implants remain stable and functioning properly. Most patients are recommended to attend maintenance visits every six months.
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