How Much Do Full-Mouth Dental Implants Cost: All-on-4 vs 3 on 6

Are you tired of your dentures? When you need to replace a full set of teeth, your research will likely lead you to look at options like 3 on 6™ and All-on-4. The first thing you're likely going to ask is, "how much do full mouth dental implants cost?" Not only do you need to know what the upfront costs are, but also what the maintenance costs are overt time. Knowing these overall costs helps you make the best choice for your health and daily life.

In this article, we will look at the total costs of these leading dental implant solutions. We'll directly compare the expenses of All-on-4 versus the 3 on 6 systems (including other costs that might not be extra like tooth extraction and anesthesia) to help you make a fully informed choice.

Difference of All-on-4 vs 3 on 6 Full Mouth Dental Implants

What is the key difference between All-on-4 and 3 on 6? These are both common types of dental implant procedures that give you a whole new smile, but they do it in different ways. All-on-4 uses just four implants to hold one solid prosthetic. The All-on-4 includes fake gums to cover up any lost tissue or bone, making it effectively a permanent denture.

On the other hand, the 3 on 6 system uses six implants with three smaller, separate bridges. The dental bridges sit right against your own natural gums. The result is looks, feels, and functions very similar to natural teeth. It is also easier to clean and doesn't have to ever be removed for cleanings, unlike the All-on-4.

Next, we'll discuss the cost of these dental implant options and other additional charges you might expect.

Breakdown of Cost of All-on-4

The cost for All-on-4 dental implants typically ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 for one arch. This includes the surgery and placing the implants and the abutments that connect to your new teeth. For a full mouth, the price for the implants, abutments, and new teeth can range from $36,000 to $60,000. On top of this, you must also pay for anesthesia.

Anesthesia is a major expense that can add about $400/hour of surgery to your final bill. Most All-on-4 treatments take around 4 hours, brings the total estimated cost for a full mouth procedure anywhere between $37,600 and $61,600.

It's also important to know that the All-on-4 procedure often requires another surgical step called alveoloplasty. In many cases, the dentist must remove healthy jawbone to make space for the bulky prosthetic.

Be sure to ask your provider for a full breakdown of all costs, including any necessary bone removal or grafting, so you understand the complete price of your treatment as well as any irreversible bone and gum removal that may be a part of your treatment.

Breakdown of Cost of 3 on 6

The cost for 3 on 6 dental implants is typically between $22,000 and $28,000 for one arch. For a full mouth, the price for the implants and new teeth is about $44,000 to $56,000. However, the total cost includes more than just the implants. Anesthesia is also a major part of the expense.

Anesthesia or sedation often costs about $400 per hour. The 3 on 6 surgery requires greater skill and time takes around six hours for a full mouth. This can add about $2,400 to your bill. This brings the total estimated cost for a full mouth procedure to between $46,400 and $58,400. Some dental offices may offer a single flat rate for the whole procedure as part of a package which includes anesthesia.

Patient's Question: Are there Financing Options for my 3 on 6 Implants?

Yes! You have many ways to pay for your 3 on 6 implants. These choices might change from one dental clinic to another. You can check with major credit cards or with a special health credit like CareCredit. You can also ask your clinic directly about preferred lenders they like to work with as they're likely to know who has better lending terms and rates. Make sure you talk about this with them during your first free consultation.

A 3 on 6 patient with moderate bone loss and loose teeth

Long-Term Costs of Dental Implants: Maintenance, Procedure, and Follow-Ups

When you look at dental implant choices, you should also think about the total cost over time. You need to consider ongoing care, possible future work, and regular check-ups. These things add to the total cost. Many people find that All-on-4 implants, even if they look cheaper at first, often cost more over many years. This is largely because of the expensive cleanings, replacing parts, and occasional repairs of the prosthetic.

You can check the dental implant cost comparison infographics for a more visual approach:

All-on-4 dental implant cost vs 3 on 6

Are 3 on 6 Implants More Affordable Than All-on-4?

Patients often ask which full-arch dental implant option is less expensive. At first glance, 3 on 6 implants can sometimes look like they cost more than All-on-4. The 3 on 6 system uses six implants and three separate bridges, meaning more materials and craftsmanship. The surgery also requires more skill and time to preserve the bone and tissue.

In the longterm, the 3 on 6 system has separate bridges which allow you to clean your teeth much like natural ones. This saves you money on special cleanings. Also, the 3 on 6 design helps keep your jawbone healthier. This might stop you from needing more costly procedures later on. So, while the 3 on 6 might cost a bit more at first, it often saves you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Patient's Question: Does My Dental Insurance Provider Cover 3 on 6 Implants?

Yes, it often can! Many patients have successfully used their dental insurance to help cover the cost of their implant surgery. For example, some patients have utilized plans from major providers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield and MetLife.

However, insurance coverage for dental implants can be complex. Most plans do not cover the full cost. Instead, your insurance may pay for a part of the procedure, up to your plan's annual maximum. This is the most your insurance will pay for dental care in a single year. The exact amount of coverage depends completely on your specific plan.

To find out what your insurance will cover, you should first call your insurance provider. Your dental office can also help. They can send a pre-authorization request to your insurance company. This request details the treatment plan and asks the insurance company exactly what they will pay. This step gives you a clear idea of your final costs before you begin treatment.

Is it worth paying for a dental implant procedure?

The answer varies for each person. Each person must consider their individual needs and wants, their overall oral health, their financial situation, and long-term goals. Many things matter. One of the best practices is for patients to consider what it would be worth to them to restore their ability to eat, chew, talk, kiss, or smile without problem. While it is a significant investment to consider, few things are more valuable to an individual than their health, comfort, and confidence.

For many, dental implants, especially options like 3 on 6, provide a long-lasting, natural-looking solution. Ultimately, it’s a decision that depends on both medical and personal factors, but for many, the benefits far outweigh the initial investment. Knowing the average cost for whatever type of dental implant procedure you may choose is one of the first steps in your journey. We encourage you to research more and book a free consultation with a qualified dental implant smile restoration expert to find out more.