All-on-4 vs. Conventional Implant Prosthesis: What’s the Difference?

by Dr. Davide Romeo, Prosthodontist at Milano Dental Studio | Manhattan, NY

All-on-4 vs. Conventional Implant Prosthesis: What’s the Difference?

If you’re considering full-mouth dental implants, you’ve likely come across two common options: the All-on-4 treatment concept and conventional implant-supported prostheses. While both aim to restore full arch function and esthetics, they differ significantly in approach, timeline, and cost.

Here at Milano Dental Studio in Manhattan, Dr. Davide Romeo — a prosthodontist with 20+ years of experience in full-arch implant rehabilitation — helps patients choose the best treatment for their needs. Below is a comparison to help you understand the advantages of All-on-4 over conventional methods.

What Is All-on-4?

All-on-4 is a streamlined full-arch solution that uses just four strategically placed dental implants to support a fixed prosthesis. The back implants are angled to maximize available bone, often avoiding bone grafting, and patients typically receive a temporary set of teeth the same day.

Advantages of All-on-4 Over Conventional Implant Prosthesis

1. Fewer Implants Required

All-on-4: Only four implants per arch (occasionally 5–6 for added support).
Conventional: Typically 6–8 implants per arch.

  • Benefit
    Fewer implants mean lower cost, and easier hygienic maintenance.
2. No Bone Grafting in Most Cases

All-on-4 uses angled implants to engage denser bone, avoiding sinuses and nerves.

  • Benefit
    Patients with bone loss can often skip sinus lifts or bone grafts, reducing treatment time and cost.
3. Immediate Function (Teeth in a Day)

All-on-4: allows patients to receive a fixed temporary prosthesis on the same day as surgery.
Conventional methods: often require a healing period of 3–6 months before loadin

  • Benefit
    Walk out with a new smile immediately — no need to wear removable dentures during healing.
4. Shorter Treatment Timeline

Because All-on-4 typically eliminates grafting and allows immediate loading:

  • Surgery and temporaries are often done in one day
  • Final prosthesis delivered in 3–6 months

Conventional methods can require multiple surgeries and over a year of treatment.

  • Benefit
    Get back to life faster with fewer appointments.
5. Lower Cost Than Full Implant Rehabilitation

Fewer implants + no grafting + shorter chair time = significant cost savings.

  • Benefit
    All-on-4 is often 30–50% more affordable than traditional full-arch implants, while still being fixed and long-lasting.
6. Proven Long-Term Success

Dr. Romeo has used All-on-4 for over 20 years, and long-term studies show:

  • 98–99% implant survival
  • Excellent esthetics and patient satisfaction
  • Predictable outcomes in both upper and lower jaws
  • Benefit
    It’s not just faster — it’s clinically reliable.

When Conventional Implants May Be Preferred

In some rare cases, conventional full-arch implants may still be appropriate, especially for:

  • Complex anatomical conditions
  • Desire for individual crowns instead of a full-arch bridge
  • Revision of a previously failed implant case

Dr. Romeo will always guide you based on your unique anatomy and goals.

Final Thoughts: Fast, Reliable, and Cost-Effective

The All-on-4 technique has revolutionized full-arch dentistry by making fixed teeth more accessible, predictable, and comfortable — without compromising quality.

At Milano Dental Studio, Dr. Davide Romeo combines experience, precision planning, and digital technology to help you achieve your ideal smile — from consultation to final delivery.

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.

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