For those missing most or all of their teeth, the quest for a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing replacement can be challenging. Traditional dentures have long been the standard solution, but they come with significant limitations—slipping while eating or speaking, requiring messy adhesives, and accelerating bone loss in the jaw.
Enter ALL ON X—a revolutionary full-arch restoration technique that has transformed the lives of thousands of our patients at Smile Design Miami. This innovative approach combines the stability of dental implants with the comprehensive coverage of dentures, creating a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.
What Exactly is ALL ON X?
ALL ON X (sometimes called "All-on-Four" or "All-on-Six") is a dental implant technique where an entire arch of teeth (upper or lower) is supported by just 4-6 strategically placed dental implants. Instead of replacing each missing tooth with an individual implant, this approach uses fewer implants to support a complete prosthetic arch.
The "X" in ALL ON X represents the number of implants used—typically four to six depending on your specific needs, bone density, and jaw structure. Dr. Becerra will determine the optimal number during your consultation.
How Does ALL ON X Work?
The procedure works through several key innovations:
- Strategic implant placement: Implants are positioned at precise angles to maximize contact with available bone, even in patients with bone loss.
- Immediate loading: Unlike traditional implants that often require months of healing before attaching teeth, ALL ON X typically allows for a temporary set of teeth to be attached the same day as implant placement.
- Full-arch prosthesis: A custom-designed prosthetic arch containing 12-14 teeth is securely attached to the implants, creating a permanent, non-removable solution.
The result is a full set of teeth supported entirely by implants without covering the roof of your mouth or sitting on your gums like traditional dentures.
The ALL ON X Procedure: What to Expect
At Smile Design Miami, the ALL ON X process typically involves several appointments:
1. Comprehensive Consultation and Planning
- Dr. Becerra will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health
- 3D imaging will assess your bone structure and density
- Digital planning software creates a precise surgical guide
- We'll discuss sedation options to ensure your comfort
2. Implant Placement Day
- Any remaining damaged teeth are extracted
- The implants are surgically placed according to your custom treatment plan
- Temporary teeth are attached to the implants the same day (in most cases)
- You'll leave with a functional, aesthetic smile
3. Healing Period
- The implants integrate with your jawbone over 3-6 months
- You'll wear the temporary prosthesis during this time
- Regular check-ups ensure proper healing
4. Final Restoration
- Once healing is complete, we take impressions for your permanent teeth
- Your custom-designed permanent prosthesis is created using high-quality materials
- The final teeth are placed and adjusted for perfect fit and bite
"The most rewarding moment is when patients see their final smile for the first time. Many become emotional—they're not just getting teeth back; they're regaining confidence and quality of life." — Dr. Maria Becerra
Benefits of ALL ON X
This approach offers numerous advantages over traditional dentures and even individual implants:
- Preservation of jawbone: The implants stimulate the bone, preventing the deterioration that occurs with tooth loss
- Improved appearance: Supports facial structures, reducing the "sunken" look associated with missing teeth
- Enhanced comfort: No rubbing against gums or palate like traditional dentures
- Better function: Bite force comparable to natural teeth, allowing you to eat virtually anything
- Permanent solution: With proper care, can last decades or even a lifetime
- Simplified maintenance: Brush and floss similar to natural teeth (with specialized tools)
- Fewer implants needed: More cost-effective than replacing each tooth individually
- Immediate results: Leave with functional teeth the same day in most cases
Is ALL ON X Right for You?
ALL ON X is ideal for people who:
- Are missing most or all teeth in an arch
- Have traditional dentures and want a fixed alternative
- Have failing teeth that require extraction
- Desire a permanent solution rather than removable appliances
- Want to avoid the cost of individual implants for each missing tooth
Even patients previously told they don't have enough bone for implants may be candidates for ALL ON X, as the technique often utilizes available bone more efficiently than traditional approaches.
ALL ON X vs. Traditional Options
To better understand why many patients choose ALL ON X, it's helpful to compare it with traditional options:
ALL ON X vs. Traditional Dentures
- Stability: ALL ON X is fixed and doesn't move; dentures can slip and require adhesives
- Bone preservation: ALL ON X stimulates and preserves bone; dentures accelerate bone loss
- Comfort: ALL ON X doesn't cover the palate or press on gums; dentures rest on gum tissue
- Taste and speaking: ALL ON X doesn't interfere with taste or speech; dentures can affect both
- Longevity: ALL ON X can last decades; dentures typically need replacement every 5-7 years
ALL ON X vs. Individual Implants
- Number of implants: ALL ON X uses 4-6 implants per arch; replacing all teeth individually would require 8+ implants
- Cost: ALL ON X is typically more cost-effective than full-mouth individual implants
- Procedure time: ALL ON X can often be completed in fewer appointments
- Bone requirements: ALL ON X can often work with less available bone than individual implants in every position
Caring for Your ALL ON X Restoration
Maintaining your ALL ON X is simpler than caring for dentures but requires diligence:
- Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled brush
- Use a water flosser and/or interdental brushes to clean under the prosthesis
- Consider an antimicrobial mouth rinse as recommended
- Attend regular professional cleanings and check-ups (typically every 3-6 months)
- Avoid biting very hard objects that could damage the prosthesis
With proper care, the prosthetic teeth may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the implants themselves can last a lifetime.
Your Investment in a Lifetime Smile
ALL ON X represents a significant investment in your oral health, appearance, and quality of life. The exact cost varies based on your specific needs, including:
- Number of arches being restored (upper, lower, or both)
- Number of implants required
- Need for preliminary procedures (extractions, bone grafting)
- Materials used for the final prosthesis
- Type of sedation selected
At Smile Design Miami, we understand this is a major decision. We offer financing options to help make this life-changing treatment accessible. During your consultation, we'll provide transparent pricing and payment options.
When considering the long-term value, many patients find ALL ON X to be cost-effective compared to the ongoing expenses of denture replacements, adhesives, and potential health issues related to poor dental function.
Ready to Explore ALL ON X?
If you're tired of dealing with missing teeth, uncomfortable dentures, or a smile that affects your confidence, ALL ON X might be the solution you've been seeking. Dr. Becerra and our team at Smile Design Miami have helped hundreds of patients transform their lives with this revolutionary procedure.
We invite you to schedule a consultation to learn if ALL ON X is right for you. Your journey to a confident, functional smile starts with a simple conversation about your goals and options.
"The technology behind ALL ON X has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Today, we can provide solutions that were impossible just a few years ago, helping patients who previously had few options." — Dr. Maria Becerra
