Is All-on-4 or All-on-6 better? Neither is universally superior — the right choice depends on your jawbone density, anatomy, and clinical needs. At Texas Dental Implant Center in Houston, Dr. Michel Azer uses the All-on-X approach — placing 4 to 6 implants based on what your 3D scan shows will give you the strongest result. Permanent All-on-X teeth start at $16,999 per arch.
How All-on-4 Works
All-on-4 places two straight implants in the front and two angled implants in the back. The angled placement reaches stronger bone in the posterior jaw, often eliminating the need for bone grafting. Good for patients with moderate bone loss. Decades of clinical research behind it.
How All-on-6 Works
All-on-6 adds two more implants for more points of force distribution. Some providers prefer this for patients with good bone density. The trade-off: more implant sites mean you need more bone, and surgery takes slightly longer.
Why Dr. Azer Uses All-on-X
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are brand-driven protocols that prescribe a fixed number for every patient. Dr. Azer takes a different approach.
Using a 3D CBCT scan, he determines whether 4, 5, or 6 implants will give you the best long-term result. The "X" means the number is determined by your clinical needs — not by a brand protocol. The result is the same: permanent, fixed teeth. But the foundation is customized to you.
Comparison Summary
All-on-4 advantages: established research, fewer implant sites, often avoids grafting, slightly shorter surgery.
All-on-6 advantages: more support points, potentially better force distribution for patients with strong bone.
All-on-X advantages: customized to your anatomy, clinical decision based on 3D imaging, same pricing regardless of implant count at TDIC.
What About Cost?
At TDIC, All-on-X starts at $16,999 per arch whether you receive 4, 5, or 6 implants. Houston average is $25,000–$40,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is All-on-6 stronger than All-on-4?
More implants provide more support, but the optimal number depends on your bone. Four well-placed implants in dense bone can outperform six in compromised bone.
Do I get to choose between them?
Dr. Azer recommends based on your 3D scan and evaluation. The treatment is customized, not locked to a brand protocol.
Is All-on-X more expensive than All-on-4?
Not at TDIC. Same price: $16,999 per arch regardless of implant count.
Can I upgrade from All-on-4 to All-on-6 later?
Sometimes, but it's better to place the optimal number from the start.
What is the success rate?
95–98% over 10 years when placed by a trained specialist. All approaches have comparable rates.
The best way to know is a 3D scan. Schedule a free consultation at Texas Dental Implant Center.