Choosing the Right Restorative Material for Your All-on-4 Prosthesis
by Dr. Davide Romeo, Prosthodontist at Milano Dental Studio | Manhattan, NY
At Milano Dental Studio, we believe that choosing the right restorative material for your All-on-4 prosthesis is a crucial part of the planning process—one that should begin early, during your initial consultation. This decision influences not only how your new smile will look, but also how it will feel, function, and hold up over time.
Just like a tailor-made suit, your All-on-4 prosthesis should be designed specifically for you—your bite, your smile goals, your lifestyle. That’s why we take this part of the process seriously, guiding every patient with care and expertise. While several materials are available—from acrylic to nano-ceramics—zirconia consistently stands out for its exceptional durability, natural aesthetics, and resistance to staining and wear. For many patients, zirconia offers the ideal combination of strength and beauty in a long-lasting, worry-free solution.
More Than Just Teeth: Your New Smile, Built to Last
The All-on-4 procedure replaces an entire arch of missing teeth with a fixed prosthesis supported by four dental implants. But the visible part—the teeth themselves—can be made from several different materials. Each has its own strengths, limitations, and cost considerations.
Here’s a look at the most common options we offer at Milano Dental Studio—and how we help patients find the one that fits just right.
1. Acrylic (PMMA) with Titanium Bar
This lightweight, cost-effective option is often used for the immediate temporary prosthesis placed on the day of surgery. PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) is easy on healing tissues and comfortable to wear during the initial months of recovery.
PROS:
CONS:
Think of PMMA as the training wheels: it gets you through the healing phase, giving you a beautiful and functional smile right away, before the final prosthesis is delivered.
2. Zirconia (Monolithic or Layered)
Zirconia has quickly become the gold standard for permanent All-on-4 restorations. It’s known for its incredible strength and natural-looking translucency.
PROS:
CONS:
At Milano Dental Studio, we offer monolithic zirconia for patients who prioritize strength, and layered zirconia for those who want the most lifelike appearance possible—with subtle shading and translucency that mimic real teeth.
3. Nano-Ceramics (e.g., Crystal Ultra)
This newer class of material combines the strength of ceramics with the flexibility of resin, offering a softer bite experience.
PROS:
CONS:
Nano-ceramics offer a middle-ground solution for patients who want great aesthetics with a slightly softer feel.
4. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
While less common today, PFMs still have a place in specific cases. These restorations combine a metal base for strength with a porcelain exterior for aesthetics.
PROS:
CONS:
How We Help You Choose
No two smiles are the same—and no two prostheses should be either.
When you visit Milano Dental Studio, your consultation includes a thorough evaluation of your medical and dental history, bite habits, functional needs, and smile expectations.
We talk honestly about:
Then, we walk you through the options—not with sales pressure, but with the care and clarity you’d expect from a team that’s truly invested in your outcome.
Craftsmanship You Can See and Feel
One of the things that makes our work at Milano Dental Studio unique is our partnership with master dental technicians both New York and Italy. These artisans bring decades of experience and a deep understanding of smile design, creating prostheses that are as functional as they are beautiful.
By combining advanced digital technology with hand-finished artistry, we’re able to achieve a level of customization and realism that simply can’t be replicated in a one-size-fits-all setting.
From the curve of your smile to the way light reflects off each tooth, every detail is carefully crafted to bring out the best version of you.
A Final Word from Dr. Romeo
As a prosthodontist with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen how much of a difference the right materials—and the right planning—can make. Your smile isn’t just about looks. It’s about eating comfortably, speaking clearly, aging confidently, and feeling like yourself again. We’re here to guide you through every step of the All-on-4 journey—including helping you choose the restorative solution that fits your life.
Meet Your Expert in Smile Restoration: Dr. Davide Romeo
Dr. Davide Romeo is more than a provider—he’s a pioneer in full-arch implant rehabilitation. A specialist in prosthodontics, he has taught, researched, and published internationally on the All-on-4 concept. His reputation for precision, artistry, and compassionate care has made Milano Dental Studio a trusted destination for patients across New York and beyond.
With Dr. Romeo, you’re not just getting a set of teeth—you’re getting a partner in your journey back to health, confidence, and joy.
