What is All-on-4?
It is a protocol for immediate implant placement with immediate loading, which allows for a fixed prosthesis to be secured on just four dental implants. Its key advantage is the potential to avoid complex and lengthy bone grafting procedures, even in cases of moderate bone atrophy, making it a predictable and rapid solution for total or near-total tooth loss.
If you are facing the need to restore all teeth in a jaw, the All-on-4 (from "All-on-Four") technique is often a key option to consider. This innovative protocol for immediate-load implantology is designed for cases of complete or partial edentulism. Its primary clinical value lies in the possibility of carrying out rehabilitation in cases of moderate bone atrophy, minimising or completely avoiding the need for preliminary complex surgeries like bone grafting or sinus lift procedures.
Key Advantages of the All-on-4 Technology
-
Reduced Treatment Timelines. From implant placement to the fixation of a fixed prosthesis takes between 1 to 3 days (immediate-load protocol).
-
Minimally Invasive. Due to the angled placement of the two posterior implants, areas of denser bone are utilised, which often renders bone augmentation unnecessary.
-
Predictability and Stability. All four implants are immediately connected by the prosthesis's rigid metal bar, providing high primary stability and favourable conditions for osseointegration (implant fusion with the bone).
-
Immediate Restoration of Function and Aesthetics. You receive a complete fixed prosthesis on which you can chew within 72 hours of surgery, with no period of edentulism.
Main Stages of Treatment with the All-on-4 Protocol
The treatment is based on precise digital planning and consists of sequential stages:
-
Diagnosis and 3D Planning. The foundation is a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan. From this, a virtual 3D model of the jaw is created, implant placement points are precisely calculated considering anatomy, and surgical guides are often fabricated for maximum accuracy.
-
Surgical Implant Placement. Under local anaesthesia (or sedation), four implants are placed: two in the anterior region vertically and two in the lateral regions at an angle. If necessary, atraumatic extraction of any remaining teeth is performed.
-
Fixation of the Adaptation Prosthesis. On the same day or within 72 hours, a temporary fixed prosthesis is secured to the implants via screw-retained fixation onto a sturdy metal framework.
-
Osseointegration Period. Over 4-6 months, the biological fusion of the implants with the jawbone occurs. The prosthesis is functional during this period, but loading is controlled.
-
Placement of the Definitive Prosthesis. Once the implants are fully integrated, the temporary structure is replaced with a definitive prosthesis made of metal-ceramic or zirconium oxide.
Longevity and Important Technical Nuances
-
Implant Longevity: With successful osseointegration and correct hygiene, it is practically unlimited. Quality systems come with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
-
Prosthesis Longevity: Depends on the material and use: from 10-15 years (metal-composite) to 20 years or more (metal-ceramic, zirconia).
-
Key Success Parameter: Implant Primary Stability (ISQ). For immediate loading, an ISQ of no less than 65-70 Ncm is required.
-
Each implant should have a passport with a serial number confirming its originality.
Contraindications for the Method
-
Absolute: Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (HbA1c > 8%), severe osteoporosis with bisphosphonate therapy, serious blood coagulation disorders, uncontrolled autoimmune diseases.
-
Relative (require management): Bruxism, untreated periodontitis, exacerbation of chronic conditions, smoking. The decision is made by the clinician after consultation with relevant specialists.
Why Patients Choose Corona Dental Clinic in Barcelona for All-on-4
By choosing Corona Dental, you receive not just a medical service, but a comprehensive approach based on European quality standards and personalised care.
-
Expertise of a Team, Not Just One Clinician. Your case is planned and managed by a team: the implant surgeon, the prosthodontist, and the dental technician. Our Spanish and Russian-speaking specialists undergo regular training at leading European clinics.
-
Complete In-House Digital Workflow.
-
Precise diagnosis with modern CBCT equipment.
-
3D surgical planning with the fabrication of surgical guides.
-
An in-house dental laboratory where all prostheses are manufactured, guaranteeing quality control and timelines.
-
Transparency and Guarantees. You receive a detailed treatment plan with a fixed cost. We work with top-tier implant systems (Nobel Biocare, Straumann) and provide the manufacturers' official warranties.
-
Comfort for International Patients. We handle the full organisation: assistance with transfer, accommodation, document translation. You can come for treatment from any country.
All-on-4 implantology is a high-tech solution that requires precise diagnosis and expert execution. If you wish to find out if you are a suitable candidate for this method and obtain a detailed plan from European specialists, take the first step—book a remote consultation with Corona Dental.
