All-on-4 Alternatives: The Life-Changing 3 on 6 Dental Implant Solution

All-on-4 prosthetic with artificial gums

While many people know about All-on-4 implants, you have several other choices for replacing a full arch of teeth. These options include traditional dentures, mini implants with a prosthetic, snap-in dentures, and the advanced 3 on 6™ dental implant system. Your best choice depends on your jawbone health, your budget, and whether you prefer permanent or removable teeth. In this article, we'll focus on the special benefits of the 3 on 6™ solution.

If you are looking at choices for replacing all your teeth, the 3 on 6 dental implant system might be right for you. Many patients choose it because it preserves the natural gum and bone of the patient. This not only gives a more natural looking outcome, but it is a healthier approach than bone reduction. There are many other related benefits from the 3 on 6 method such as the ease in cleaning your teeth at home.

Alternatives to All-on-4: Why Consider 3 on 6?

Patient Question: "I've heard of All-on-4, but what makes the 3 on 6 system different?" 

Both All-on-4 and 3 on 6 are able to provide full-arch teeth replacement, but 3 on 6 offers some key benefits. All-on-4 is an FP3 restoration that requires artificial gums to fill in the gap where bone has been lost, often because the dentist removes that bone at the time of surgery. 3 on 6, however, is an FP1 restoration that uses your natural bone and gums to support the teeth. This gives you teeth that feel more like your own—no bulky parts or unnatural-looking gums.

Also, 3 on 6 helps keep your bone healthier. Imagine trying to lift weights while having two full arm casts. You just wouldn't be able to get the range of motion and resistance needed to build muscle. Bone requires exercise just like muscle. Using segmented bridges as opposed to a single prosthetic arch allows for greater local pressures and stimulation of the bone. This is crucial in preventing long term bone loss.

Patient Question: "Isn't the 3 on 6 just implants and bridges?"

Yes and no. 3 on 6 uses implants and bridges to restore teeth, but the surgical and restorative techniques and methodology make it unique. Bridges and implants might be the ingredients, but they're not the product. For example, you wouldn't say Gordon Ramsay's famed Beef Wellington is the same as a ballpark hotdog just because they both have meat inside of bread. Some of the unique aspects of 3 on 6 treatment include bone and tissue preservation, atraumatic extractions, progressive loading, and bridge segmentation. The 3 on 6 system gives you a specific, high-quality procedure, backed by a 3 on 6 guarantee.

The 3 on 6 Procedure Explained

Patient Question: "What does the process of getting 3 on 6 implants actually involve?"

Getting your new 3 on 6 smile happens in several steps. The whole process usually takes three to six months. Here’s what you can expect:

Step 1: Consultation & Planning: First, you will have a thorough meeting with a certified 3 on 6 provider. They will check your jawbone using 3D scans or X-rays to make sure you are a good candidate. Your provider will discuss your choices, including whether 3 on 6 fits your needs better than options like All-on-4.

Step 2: Implant Surgery: During this appointment, your dentist places six titanium implants into your jawbone. These implants create the strong base for your new dental bridges. You will wake up from surgery with new teeth, though these are temporary. This first set of teeth help you live your daily life while your mouth heals and allow you to chew soft foods.

Step 3: Healing & Osseointegration: Over the next 3 months, your implants will slowly fuse with your jawbone. You will be on a soft foods diet for a short time to make sure the implants don't receive too much pressures.

Step 4: Final Restoration: After healing finishes, your dentist places your custom-made zirconia bridges onto the implants. This gives you a fully restored set of teeth that look and feel natural. Your dentist will make any final adjustments to make sure you are happy with your beautiful, permanent teeth.

Key Benefits of 3 on 6

Patient Question: "Why would I choose 3 on 6 implants over other options?"

Here are the top reasons why patients feel the 3 on 6 stands head and shoulders above other alternatives:

• Gum and Bone Preservation: Rather than removing bone and gum tissue to make space for a bulky prosthetic, the 3 on 6 utilizes the patient's natural healthy tissue, only restoring the teeth in the mouth.

• More Natural Look and Feel: You don't want to have to worry about smiling too big or a romantic partner sensing something unnatural in your mouth. The 3 on 6 accomplishes this with its slim and natural restoration.

• Easier Maintenance: You can brush and floss like you do with natural teeth and the 3 on 6 never has to be removed. Alternative options require much more daily care as well as expensive removals for cleanings.

• Long-Term Bone Health: The 3 on 6 is designed to allow for greater micro-stimulation of the dental implants, resulting in bone stimulation and preservation.

Is 3 on 6 Right for You?

Patient Question: "Am I a good candidate for 3 on 6 implants, especially if I have bone loss or am a senior?"

The 3 on 6 procedure works best for people with tooth loss and little to moderate bone loss. We find that the vast majority of patients who present at consultations qualify for 3 on 6.

If you have already experienced a severe level of bone loss, you might be a better candidate for All-on-4. A certified 3 on 6 provider can perform both 3 on 6 and All-on-X treatment and will be able to tell you which one is most appropriate for your situation.

Cost of 3 on 6 vs. All-on-4

Patient Question: "How does the cost of 3 on 6 compare to All-on-4?"

Depending on various factors, the upfront cost of the 3 on 6 procedure is usually the same or slightly more than All-on-4. The 3 on 6 is a more conservative surgery, requiring greater skill in preserving the bone and tissue. It also typically has two more implants than a standard All-on-X treatment.

Patients must also consider the lifetime costs of the treatment options. The 3 on 6 has the lowest lifetime maintenance costs of the major dental restoration options. Many of the other popular options are more prone to damage that requires replacement as well as expensive cleaning and maintenance costs.

Is 3 on 6 the Best All-on-4 Dental Implant Alternative?

If you are looking for an alternative to All-on-4 that preserves your bone and gums, is easier and cheaper to maintain, and feels more natural, 3 on 6 could be your solution. To learn more or to see if you are a candidate, schedule a consultation with a trusted 3 on 6 provider today.