What Are Implant-Supported Dentures? Is it the same as an All on 4 or All on 6?

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures? Is it the same as an All on 4 or All on 6?

Implant-supported dentures are dentures that are attached to and supported by implants, as opposed to regular dentures, which are supported by the gums of the patient.


Almost all dentists consider implant-supported dentures to be superior in every aspect to regular dentures when there has been significant tooth loss. They’re more comfortable, resistant, easier to use, better looking, and require far less complicated cleaning.

Implant-supported dentures do have one disadvantage: they are much more expensive than traditional removable dentures. But don’t worry. Like many Americans and Canadians before you, you can have them custom-created just for you at affordable prices in Costa Rica.

When it comes to implant-supported dentures, you have two main options to choose from. You should get familiar with them, although in the end, it’ll be a decision made between you and your dentist, based on your preferences, but also on the condition of your mouth.

  1. Implant-Supported Dentures or All-on-4s

This option is very similar to the first one, except it tends to use only 4 implants (thus the name All-on-4s). It might use more implants, but only the minimum required to support the dentures.

Like natural teeth, these dentures are fixed and require normal hygiene and maintenance. They are also great looking.

The one disadvantage they is that if a single implant fails, the whole structure may not function properly anymore. However, taking into account that the rate of success of dental implants is 95% to 98% (and failures happen in high-risk cases or when there is patient non-compliance). The fewer number implants required also means less intrusive surgery, faster healing, and lower prices. Because of these factors, they are the most common implant supported dentures.

  1. Fixed Full-arch Implant-Supported Dentures: All on 6 or All on 8

This option consists of getting dental implants, usually from 6 to 8, and affixing full-arch dentures to them. The number of implants is based on the size and quality of the jawbone or other factors. (Sometimes only the upper or lower denture is needed, instead of both of them.)

This is one of the most aesthetic options as the whole set of teeth is produced with the same material and harmony of color is consistent on both dentures. The dentures are fixed, so there is no need to remove them for cleaning. Hygiene and maintenance are the same as if you had natural teeth.

No matter which option you and your dentist decide on, you can count on the affordable economics and excellent quality of care that the highly experienced dentists in Costa Rica can offer you.

Fill out a form on this page and get a free referral to one of the leading dental implant clinics in Costa Rica.