If you’re missing most or all of your teeth—or struggling with uncomfortable dentures—All-on-4 dental implants might be the solution you’ve been looking for. This treatment offers a permanent, natural-looking set of teeth supported by just four implants per arch.
Whether you’re looking to restore your smile, improve chewing, or just ditch the denture glue for good, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a full-arch dental implant solution. Instead of replacing each missing tooth with a single implant—one of the more common approaches among the different types of dental implants—this method uses four strategically placed implants to anchor a full set of teeth on your upper or lower jaw. It’s strong, stable, and fixed in place—so no slipping or removing dentures at night.
What’s Included in the Procedure?
When you hear “All-on-4,” you’re getting three main components:
- Implant posts – Titanium screws placed into your jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots.
- Abutments – The connectors between the implants and your new teeth.
- Full-arch prosthesis – A custom-made bridge or denture that looks and feels like real teeth.
In many cases, temporary teeth are placed on the same day as your implant surgery—a process often called teeth-in-a-day. These aren’t your final set, but they’re custom-made to look natural and restore your ability to smile, speak, and eat soft foods right away.
That means you’ll walk out of the office with a full, functional smile while your implants heal and integrate with your jawbone over the next few months.
What’s Included in the Procedure?
The All-on-4 procedure is more than just placing implants—it’s a carefully planned, multi-step treatment designed to give you a strong, natural-looking smile. Here’s what it typically includes:
Initial Consultation & Digital Imaging
Your journey starts with a comprehensive consultation. The dentist will:
- Review your medical and dental history
- Take 3D scans (CBCT) to evaluate bone density and structure
- Discuss your goals, budget, and timeline
- Create a personalized treatment plan
Keeping up with routine cleanings and exams can also help identify early signs of tooth or bone loss—before full-arch restoration is ever needed.
Implant Surgery
On the day of your procedure:
- Any necessary tooth extractions are performed first
- Four dental implants are placed—two vertically in the front and two angled in the back to maximize bone contact and avoid grafting
- This is typically done under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia for comfort
Same-Day Temporary Teeth
Right after implant placement, a temporary set of teeth is attached. These are:
- Fixed in place (not removable like traditional dentures)
- Made of durable acrylic
- Designed for aesthetics and light function during the healing phase
You’ll leave the office with a complete smile, even before the implants have fully integrated.
Healing & Osseointegration (3–6 months)
As your jawbone heals, the implants naturally fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. During this time:
- You’ll follow a soft food diet
- Routine checkups will monitor healing
- The temporary prosthesis helps maintain your appearance and function
If you’ve had fillings or other restorations in the past, some of the healing and post-op care principles are similar.
Final Prosthesis Placement
Once healing is complete:
- Your temporary teeth are replaced with a custom-designed final prosthesis
- This is often made from zirconia or reinforced acrylic—stronger, more lifelike, and built to last
- The final prosthesis is securely attached and polished for a seamless, natural look
Not sure if you need a full-arch solution? For smaller restorations, dental onlays and other alternatives might be more appropriate—here’s a quick guide to help compare.
All-on-4 Dental Implants Cost in Washington State
The cost of All-on-4 dental implants in Washington varies based on several factors, including the dental clinic, materials used, and any additional procedures required. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Basic All-on-4 Package: Some clinics offer packages starting at $9,995 per arch, which typically includes the implants and a provisional prosthesis.
- Standard Packages: Most patients can expect to pay between $15,000 and $30,000 per arch, depending on the complexity of the case and materials chosen.
- Premium Options: Clinics offering high-end materials, such as zirconia prostheses, may charge up to $38,995 for both arches.
For a more in-depth breakdown of All-on-4 dental implant costs in Washington—including what’s typically included and how different materials impact price—check out our full cost guide here.
When to Consider All-on-4
You’re missing most or all of your teeth
Whether from decay, gum disease, or injury—if you have few to no healthy teeth left in your upper or lower jaw, All-on-4 offers a stable, long-term solution. Sometimes, recurring issues like failed restorations or getting a cavity under a filling can eventually lead to tooth loss.
You’re frustrated with dentures
If your dentures feel loose, cause sore spots, or make it hard to eat or speak comfortably, All-on-4 can give you a permanent, fixed alternative that feels more natural.
You want to avoid multiple individual implants
Placing a single implant for every missing tooth can be expensive and time-consuming. All-on-4 uses just four implants per arch to support a full set of teeth—streamlining the process. If you’ve already gone through cycles of failing restorations, knowing the signs your fillings need replacement can help you decide when it’s time to consider a longer-term solution like All-on-4.
You’ve been told you don’t have enough bone
Because of the angled placement of the back implants, All-on-4 often avoids the need for bone grafting—even in patients with some bone loss.
You want a same-day transformation
In many cases, temporary teeth can be placed on the same day as your surgery, so you walk out with a complete smile right away.
All-on-4 Dental Implants at btyDENTAL Washington
All-on-4 dental implants are a life-changing solution for people missing most or all of their teeth. Whether you’re tired of loose dentures or simply want a confident, permanent smile, this procedure uses just four implants per arch to restore full function and aesthetics—often with same-day results.
But no two smiles are exactly alike. The best implant plan is one that’s built around your needs—your bite, your bone structure, and your long-term goals. At btyDENTAL Washington, we believe in helping your smile become better than yesterday.
Whether you’re in Tacoma, Sumner, Puyallup, Lynnwood, Federal Way, DuPont, Bonney Lake, or Bellevue, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process with care, clarity, and personalized attention. Schedule an appointment with us today!
