While those suffering from tooth loss once had to (quite literally) grin and bear it, today All-on-4 dental implants are a fast, long-term solution.

In 2022, there were 108,399 dental implant and abutment procedures performed in Australia, a figure covering a broad set of implant treatments — including the increasingly popular All‑on‑4.

In many ways, All-on-4 has taken over from other tooth replacement solutions like bridges and dentures. There are a few key reasons for this. For one, All-on-4 is a long-term fixed solution. For another, unlike other solutions, dental implants have important functional benefits, including the restoration of your bite and the preservation of your jaw.

There are a lot of benefits, but, as Wollongong implant specialists, we know that implants are a big decision, with many factors to consider. In the following article, we’ll cover All-on-4 dental implants pros and cons, All-on-4 dental implants cost, and how we can help you here at Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre.

What are All-On-4 dental implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are an almost instant replacement for a full mouth of missing teeth. This is a life-changing solution for those who have experienced tooth loss, and while there are obvious aesthetic benefits, All-on-4 can also have long-term health benefits, including the prevention of jawbone shrinkage.

When teeth are missing, the jawbone no longer receives the stimulation it needs, which can cause bone to deteriorate over time. The titanium implants used in All‑on‑4 act like natural tooth roots, stimulating the bone and helping to maintain strength and volume— this supports your facial structure and can prevent the sunken appearance that sometimes accompanies long‑term tooth loss.

All‑on‑4 works by placing four strategically angled titanium implants into areas of the jaw with good existing bone, so fewer implants are needed. A custom‑made, fixed arch of prosthetic teeth is then attached to these implants, giving you a strong, natural‑looking smile that feels and functions much like real teeth. In many cases, a temporary set of teeth can be placed on the same day as surgery, so you leave the clinic with a functional smile while the implants fully integrate with the bone over the coming months.

How many implants are required to replace all the teeth?

For a full set of replacement teeth, most All‑on‑4 treatments use four dental implants per arch. That means four posts in the upper jaw and four in the lower if you’re replacing both arches. These four implants are strategically placed to support an entire fixed bridge of artificial teeth, giving you a complete smile without needing an implant for every single tooth.

Who is an ideal candidate for All-on-4 dental implants?

An ideal candidate for All‑on‑4 dental implants is someone who has lost most or all of their teeth in one or both arches and wants a stable, fixed solution rather than traditional dentures.

While you must be 18, there is no upper age limit for All-on-4 dental implants. You do need to be in good general health, and well enough to tolerate the procedure. You will also need to have sturdy gums and bone density, and be free of gum disease and recession that might compromise the stability of the implants.

Smokers or those with poor oral hygiene may not be ideal candidates due to the risk of complications.

Benefits of All-on-4 dental implants compared to traditional implants

One of the biggest advantages of All‑on‑4 is that it uses just four strategically placed implants to support an entire arch of teeth, which can mean fewer surgical visits and a quicker overall treatment timeline than traditional implants that place individual posts for each tooth. Many patients also benefit from temporary teeth on the same day as surgery.

That said, traditional implants remain the gold standard for individual tooth replacement or partial gaps, offering a very natural feel and customisation when only a few teeth are missing. They can also be preferable when bone density is strong and you’re replacing a smaller number of teeth.

A thorough assessment with your specialist Wollongong dentist will help determine which option suits your smile goals, bone health and budget best.

We also accept all private health funds and have HICAPS available for instant rebates.

See finance options

All-on-4 dental implants process

1. Initial consultation and planning:
   Your All‑on‑4 journey begins with a thorough consultation and exam with your dentist. During this visit, your clinician reviews your medical history, checks your oral health and takes dental imaging (like X‑rays or a 3D scan) to assess your jawbone and plan the best positions for your implants.
2. Preparation and pre‑surgery steps:
   Before surgery, any necessary preparatory work is done. This might include extracting damaged teeth, treating gum disease or other dental issues and, in some cases, bone grafting if more bone support is needed. Your dentist will also guide you on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting instructions, medication checks and arranging transport on the day.
3. Implant surgery:
   On surgery day, four titanium implants are placed into your jawbone—two near the front and two angled at the back to take advantage of existing bone and avoid areas that might need grafting. Local anaesthesia (and sedation if chosen) will keep you comfortable. When you get All‑on‑4 implants, your dentist usually fits a temporary bridge first because your jaw and gums need time to heal and adapt after surgery. A temporary bridge gives you immediate function and aesthetics, so you can speak and smile confidently right away while your implants settle into place.
4. Early healing and osseointegration:
   After surgery, your jawbone begins to fuse with the implants in a process called osseointegration, which will usually take 3–6 months. During this period, bone grows around the implant posts, strengthening them and securing your foundation for long‑term function. Regular follow‑up visits help your dentist monitor healing and adjust care as needed.
5. Final prosthesis placement:
   Once integration is complete and your implants are stable, your dentist fits your final custom‑made prosthetic arch. This permanent set of teeth is designed to look natural, fit comfortably and restore full chewing function. With good oral hygiene and routine dental check‑ups, your All‑on‑4 restoration can deliver years of reliable performance.

Average cost All-on-4 dental implants by state:

The main variations in All-on-4 dental implants price come down to how much preparatory work must be undertaken, and the materials chosen, but there are also differences state-by-state. The following table breaks down approximate costs based on where you live, but these prices are a rough guide only.

Our South Coast specialist dentists can give you a more detailed quote, as well as advice on any implant financing available to you.

Does health insurance cover All-on-4?

Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover dental implant surgery, including All‑on‑4, because dental procedures are generally considered outside the scope of the public health scheme except in medically necessary cases.

Private health insurance may help cover part of the cost of All‑on‑4 implants, but this depends entirely on your policy and level of extras cover. Many funds classify All‑on‑4 under major dental or implant benefits in extras cover, so you might be able to claim a portion of the implant components, crown work or related procedures.

How Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre can help

Every patient is unique—and so is every smile. That’s why we meticulously tailor your treatment to ensure the outcome is uniquely you. Not only do we restore function and correct bite issues, but we also use Digital Smile Design technology to craft a beautifully balanced smile in the ideal shape, colour and size for your face.

As Wollongong locals and providers of the best All-on-4 dental implants, our mission was always clear: to bring premium specialist dental care and a first-class patient experience home to our Illawarra community.

At Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre, our practitioners are at the top of their field, backed by years of experience, technical skill and the latest tech.

Contact us today to start planning your smile restoration.