All-on-6 and All-on-8 dental implants abroad is a low-cost option for replacing missing teeth in the entire arch.

Video Courtesy: Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implants.

Six implants are placed in the entire upper or lower jawbone. These will support a complete set of teeth on top of them. Another option is the All-on-8 implants with eight implants.

Bridge on All on 6 Dental Implants

Am I a Candidate for All-on-6 implants?

• All your teeth in at least one arch should be missing.
• Sometimes failing dentition where a few teeth with poor prognosis are pesent. In such cases, All-on-6/8 could be a good option. This treatment is done after extracting all the teeth.
• Certain medical conditions also hamper your chances of getting All-on-6/8 dental implants.

• Although implants in uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension are not contraindicated^[1]Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal.
  Indications and contraindications of dental implants in medically compromised patients
  “The survival rate of dental implants placed in MCP who suffer from controlled systemic diseases or smoke, does not indicate a total or partial contraindication for the placement of dental implants..”
  View in Article. But it is advisable to get the written consent of your medical practitioner.
• Other issues, like cancer, ongoing radiotherapy, or some heart conditions, are absolute contraindications.

All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 Dental Implants

Although both are used for the replacement of teeth in an edentulous arch (having no teeth), there are some differences between the two systems.

All-on-6 Implants Procedure

This procedure usually takes a total of two visits typically spread over 3-6 months.

1. Consultation (VISIT 1)

• To assess your case, your dentist will do a physical examination of your oral cavity.
• Usually, a CT scan is done to get a 3D imaging of your upper and lower jawbones.
• This helps them to get a clear picture of the amount, the density, and the height and width of bone present.

2. Treatment Plan (VISIT 1)

• The proposed dental plan is then discussed with the patient.
• This is the time during which you can ask doubts regarding the materials used, the cost or the procedure itself.
• Only after both the patient and the dentist are satisfied with the plan, will the process go any further.

3. Pre-Treatment oral prophylaxis (VISIT 1)

Many patients don’t see the relevance of pre-treatment procedures in the whole scenario of getting implants. To prevent the implant from failing, this is a significant consideration. An unhealthy environment in the mouth can make it difficult for the implant to survive.

• If you have some existing teeth in your jawbone, which have a poor prognosis, extractions are recommended.
• Teeth which cannot be saved are extracted.
• Scaling is also recommended before the procedure.

4. Implant Placement (VISIT 1)

• Six implants are strategically placed in the jawbone for the maximum load distribution.
• This prevents the bone from becoming weaker under undue stress.
• A temporary removable bridge is placed on these implants until the second appointment.

5. Healing Period and Osseointegration (Back Home)

Osseointegration in implants – typically takes 3-6 months

• This is a period of 3-6 months where the bone and gums heal.
• Osseointegration is the fusion of the bone and implant surface.
• This process is very crucial for the success of the procedure.

6. Permanent Fixed Bridge (VISIT 2)

• After the healing is complete, a permanent fixed bridge is placed on the implants.

Why are All on 6 Implants Cheaper in Dental Tourism Destinations?

• Taxes, labor costs, operating costs as well as the cost to build a practice are all lower in these countries.
• Dentists in many dental tourism destinations don’t have to repay massive students debt unlike their counterparts in the US.^[5]STUDENT LOAN PLANNER
  Dentistry is the Number 1 Job in America for Debt
  “For many graduating with over $4,00,000 in negative net worth, the only way to make dentistry worth it is through practice ownership…”
  View in Article

All-on-8 Dental Implants

Another type of “All-on” procedure is the All-on-8 system. It includes full arch implants. It involves the placement of eight implants in a single arch, to support a full set of teeth.

All on 8 in Case of Severe Bone Loss

Although this technique is more extensive than the All-on-4, its indications are also different. It will hold onto the bone very firmly, preventing the risk of failure of the system.

The procedure of All-on-8 Implants is the same as All-on-6, save the number of implants used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How soon after surgery will I be able to work?

• Most of our patients go back to work within a week of surgery. However, we suggest you take at least 5-7 days of complete rest.
• If you have other medical issues, or if there are any complications, do not stress your body by going to work until and unless your surgeon tells you to.

2. Is the All on 8 or 6 procedure painful?

• Dental implant procedures are usually done under anesthesia.
• Usually, conscious sedation or general anesthesia is given in case of All-on-6/8 surgeries.
• Even after the surgery, appropriate painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication is given to deal with the pain and swelling.
• Mild pain after surgery is normal. However, in case you experience excruciating pain, feel free to contact your surgeon immediately.

3. Can I smoke after getting dental implants?

Smoking is very harmful to the process of osseointegration. To ensure the success of your implant, you must quit smoking at least for a few weeks after the procedure.