Full arch dental implants replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw with a fixed, permanent bridge supported by 4–8 implant posts. Unlike removable dentures, the bridge is screwed in place — you cannot take it out. This guide compares the main full-arch systems (All-on-4, All-on-6, All-on-8), costs across UK clinics, and who is a suitable candidate.
Full Arch Dental Implant Options Compared
| System | Implants Per Arch | UK Cost Per Arch | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-on-4 | 4 | £8,000–£18,000 | Most patients — angled implants avoid bone grafts |
| All-on-6 | 6 | £10,000–£22,000 | Good bone volume, heavy bite, reduced cantilever |
| All-on-8 | 8 | £13,000–£26,000 | Maximum stability, bruxism, premium cases |
| Trefoil (Nobel Biocare) | 3 (lower jaw only) | £9,000–£17,000 | Simplified lower arch solution |
| Zygomatic implants | 2–4 (upper jaw) | £18,000–£35,000 | Severe upper jaw bone loss |
The right system depends on your bone anatomy, bite force and treatment goals — not just the price. A surgeon recommending only one system regardless of your anatomy should prompt a second opinion.
Full Mouth vs Single Arch Treatment
Full mouth treatment means treating both the upper and lower arch. Most patients start with the arch that causes the most problems (often the lower), then address the second arch later. Key considerations:
- Upper arch: More complex — proximity to sinuses, more bone variation, higher aesthetics demand
- Lower arch: Generally more straightforward, higher bone density, faster integration
- Bite balance: Treating one arch while leaving natural or denture teeth on the other requires careful occlusal (bite) planning
- Cost of both arches: Most clinics offer a discount for full-mouth treatment — typically 10–15% saving vs treating arches separately
Full Arch Dental Implants Cost UK 2025
| Treatment | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-on-4 single arch | £8,000–£18,000 | Most common entry point |
| All-on-4 full mouth | £15,000–£32,000 | Both arches — usually discounted |
| All-on-6 single arch | £10,000–£22,000 | More implants, better distribution |
| All-on-6 full mouth | £19,000–£40,000 | Premium stability solution |
| Full arch abroad (Hungary/Poland) | £5,000–£9,000 per arch | Including travel: save 35–50% |
| Zirconia bridge upgrade | +£2,000–£5,000 per arch | Longer-lasting final restoration |
The Full Arch Treatment Process
- Consultation and CBCT scan: 3D imaging maps your bone volume, identifies nerve and sinus positions, and drives the treatment plan
- Extractions (if needed): Any remaining failing teeth removed — often done on the same day as implant surgery
- Implant placement: Surgery under local anaesthetic or IV sedation — 3–6 hours for full arch
- Same-day provisional bridge: Fixed temporary teeth fitted before you leave
- Soft diet period (3–6 months): Allows osseointegration while you function normally
- Final bridge fitting: Permanent zirconia or hybrid bridge placed and calibrated to your bite
- Annual maintenance: Professional cleaning and implant checks — critical for long-term success
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Full Arch Implants?
Most adults with missing teeth are candidates. Key factors assessed:
- Bone volume: Sufficient bone needed to anchor implants — assessed by CBCT scan. Bone grafts or zygomatic implants are options if volume is low
- General health: Well-controlled health conditions are not a barrier. Uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer treatment or certain medications (bisphosphonates) require careful assessment
- Gum health: Active periodontal disease must be treated before implant placement
- Smoking: Doubles failure risk — strong advice to stop before treatment
- Commitment to aftercare: Daily oral hygiene and annual professional maintenance are non-negotiable
Full Arch Implants vs Implant-Supported Dentures
| Factor | Fixed Full Arch (All-on-4) | Implant-Supported Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Removable? | No — fixed permanently | Yes — can be removed |
| Implants needed | 4–6 | 2–4 |
| UK cost | £8,000–£22,000 per arch | £2,500–£8,000 per arch |
| Stability | Maximum | Very good — far better than conventional dentures |
| Bone preservation | Better stimulation | Good but less than fixed |
| Aesthetics | Excellent | Good |
| Maintenance | Professional clean only | Remove and clean daily |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does full arch implant treatment take?
From first consultation to final bridge, the process typically takes 4–8 months. Same-day teeth (immediate loading) allows you to leave surgery with temporary fixed teeth, but the final permanent bridge takes 3–6 months to fit after healing.
Are full arch dental implants painful?
Surgery is performed under local anaesthetic or IV sedation — you should feel no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort for the first 1–2 weeks is managed with prescribed painkillers. Most patients are on a soft diet for 3 months but report the experience as less painful than expected.
Can full arch implants be done in one day?
The surgery and immediate provisional teeth can be done in one day (“teeth in a day”). However, the final permanent bridge is not placed until osseointegration is confirmed — typically 3–6 months later. Some clinics market this misleadingly.
How long do full arch dental implants last?
The implant posts can last a lifetime with good maintenance. The bridge (prosthesis) on top typically lasts 10–15 years for acrylic/hybrid and 15–25 years for monolithic zirconia before needing replacement.
What is the best age for full arch dental implants?
There is no upper age limit — patients in their 70s and 80s routinely have successful treatment. The minimum age is typically 18–21 (once jaw growth is complete). Overall health and bone quality matter more than age.