All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dentures: A Clinical Comparison

All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dentures: A Clinical Comparison

Tooth loss doesn’t just impact how we chew or smile—it affects our confidence, nutrition, and overall quality of life.

For decades, traditional dentures were the go-to solution for people who lost most or all of their teeth. While affordable, they come with limitations: discomfort, poor fit, and ongoing maintenance.

Now, there’s a game-changer: the All-on-4 implant system.

This guide dives deep into how All-on-4 implants compare to dentures—clinically, functionally, and aesthetically—and why this revolutionary solution is becoming the gold standard in full-mouth rehabilitation.

What Are Traditional Dentures?

Traditional complete dentures are removable appliances designed to sit on the gums and mimic natural teeth. They’re held in place using suction or adhesive.

While cost-effective and non-surgical, they come with drawbacks:

  • Progressive bone loss (no stimulation of the jaw)
  • Reduced bite force (15–20% of natural teeth)
  • Movement while talking or eating
  • Altered taste due to palatal coverage
  • Frequent relining or replacement needed

These limitations often affect nutrition, speech, and overall confidence, especially over time.

What Is the All-on-4 Implant System?

Developed by Nobel Biocare, the All-on-4 concept uses four strategically angled titanium implants to anchor a fixed full-arch prosthesis.

Here’s how it works:

  • 2 vertical implants in the front of the jaw
  • 2 angled implants at the back for maximum support
  • A fixed bridge placed on top (same day or after healing)

Top Benefits:

Teeth in a Day” – immediate temporary smile
No bone grafting in most cases
Better chewing, better speech
Long-term bone preservation
Natural look & feel

Clinical Comparison: All-on-4 vs. Dentures

Clinical Factor Traditional Dentures All-on-4 Implants
Stability Relies on suction/adhesive; prone to shifting Fixed in place — no slipping
Bone Preservation Progressive resorption (≈0.5mm/year) Maintains bone via osseointegration
Bite Force ~15–20% of natural teeth ~80–90% of natural teeth
Speech & Phonetics May affect speech Natural articulation restored
Taste & Sensation Palatal coverage blocks taste Open-palate design preserves taste
Maintenance Frequent relines/replacements needed Minimal—routine dental hygiene
Longevity 5–8 years on average 15–20+ years with care
Psychological Impact Often linked to aging or embarrassment Restores youthfulness, confidence, and quality

Long-Term Success & Biomechanics

Clinical studies report 94–98% success rates for All-on-4 over 10+ years.

Why so effective?

  • Angled posterior implants = stronger support, less bone needed
  • Cross-arch stabilization = equal force distribution
  • Precision prosthetics = fewer complications long term

Traditional dentures, on the other hand, accelerate bone loss due to lack of mechanical stimulation and often require re-fits as the jaw changes shape.

Functional & Quality-of-Life Outcomes

Patients with All-on-4 implants report:

  • 3–4x better chewing efficiency
  • Improved nutrition and digestion
  • Clearer speech
  • Boosted social confidence
  • No more messy adhesives or embarrassment

In contrast, many denture wearers complain of:

  • Slipping while eating or talking
  • Poor fit and discomfort
  • Insecurity in public

Cost Comparison: UK vs Turkey (2025)

Treatment Type UK Price Turkey Price (Dental Harmony) Savings
Full Upper & Lower Dentures £1,200 – £2,500 £500 – £900 Up to 60%
All-on-4 (Single Arch) £10,000 – £16,000 £3,800 – £5,200 Up to 70%

Even when including flights and accommodation, Turkey remains 60–70% more affordable—without compromising on international standards.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for All-on-4?

Fully edentulous or about to lose all teeth
Moderate bone loss (especially in the back)
Seeking a non-removable, long-lasting solution
Committed to hygiene and long-term care
In generally good health (some conditions require evaluation)

All-on-4 Treatment Timeline: “Teeth in a Day”

  • Day 1: Consultation, CBCT scan, smile design
  • Day 2: Implant placement + temporary fixed bridge
  • Day 3–5: Bite check, healing monitoring
  • 3–6 Months Later: Final zirconia or hybrid prosthesis

You leave smiling with new teeth in 24–48 hours!

Why All-on-4 Is Clinically Superior

Compared to dentures, All-on-4:

  • Restores bone physiology
  • Fixes occlusal harmony
  • Improves phonation and chewing
  • Preserves facial structure
  • Increases self-confidence

It’s not just a cosmetic fix—it’s a full oral restoration.

Why Choose Dental Harmony Turkey

Dental Harmony Turkey is a trusted choice for All-on-4, offering:

  • CBCT-guided surgical planning
  • Nobel Biocare or Straumann implants
  • In-house digital design lab (CAD/CAM)
  • Painless, sedation-based protocols
  • International certification & warranties

All-inclusive packages include:

  • Consultation + scans
  • Implant surgery
  • Temporary & final teeth
  • 4–5 star hotel stay
  • Airport transfers
  • Full aftercare + guarantee

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the procedure painful?
Not at all—performed under local anesthesia or sedation. Discomfort is minimal.

Q2: Can smokers get All-on-4?
Yes, but quitting or reducing smoking is strongly advised to avoid implant failure.

Q3: How long do the implants last?
15–20+ years with good oral hygiene and follow-ups.

Q4: What’s the bridge made of?
Zirconia (premium) or hybrid acrylic reinforced with titanium.

Q5: When can I eat normally again?
Soft food from day 2. Regular diet resumes after final prosthesis (~3–6 months).

Ready to Upgrade from Dentures?

If you’re ready for a stable, functional, and confident smile, the All-on-4 system could be your solution.

At Dental Harmony Turkey, we specialize in transforming lives through safe, fast, and affordable implant dentistry.

Contact our International Patient Services today for a free online consultation and digital treatment plan.

 

Benefits of All-on-Four Dental Implants

The Procedure: Getting an Implant Bridge

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