Full-Arch Dental Implants
All-on-X Dental Implants
A Fixed, Full-Arch Solution for Missing or Failing Teeth
If you are missing most or all of your teeth—or have teeth that can no longer be predictably restored—All-on-X dental implant treatment may provide an alternative to traditional removable dentures.
All-on-X uses multiple dental implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. Rather than placing an implant for every missing tooth, strategically positioned implants support a single, connected prosthesis that replaces the teeth across the upper or lower jaw.
The “X” in All-on-X simply means that the number of implants can vary. Depending on your anatomy, bone availability and treatment needs, your dentist may recommend four, five, six or more implants to support the new teeth.
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The Process
How does All-on-X Work?
Treatment typically begins with a detailed assessment that may include photographs, digital scans and 3D imaging of the jaws. Your treatment is then planned around several factors, including:
The condition of your remaining teeth
Available bone
Jaw anatomy
Bite and chewing forces
Smile and facial aesthetics
Long-term maintenance considerations
Your goals and budget
When appropriate, implants can be placed and a fixed temporary set of teeth can often be attached during the early healing period. After the implants have healed and integrated with the bone, the temporary teeth are replaced with the planned definitive prosthesis.
Acrylic / Denture-Style
Generally the most economical approach—acrylic or composite denture teeth on a denture-style base supported by the implants.
ADVANTAGES
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Lower initial cost
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Relatively lightweight
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Often easier to repair or modify
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A fixed alternative to a removable denture
CONSIDERATIONS
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Softer materials may wear, stain, chip or need replacement over time
Reinforced Hybrid
Combines acrylic or high-strength composite with an internal metal or reinforcing framework for added strength.
ADVANTAGES
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Stronger than a conventional denture-style prosthesis
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Good aesthetics
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Easier to repair than some ceramic restorations
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Balance of cost, strength and appearance
CONSIDERATIONS
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Outer tooth material can still wear, stain or chip over time
Zirconia Full-Arch
A high-strength dental ceramic, digitally designed and manufactured to create an entire arch of durable, lifelike teeth.
ADVANTAGES
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Excellent strength and durability
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Highly resistant to staining
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Smooth, polished surface
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Maintains its appearance very well over time
CONSIDERATIONS
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Generally more expensive; careful bite planning is important given its strength
Not all teeth are the same
Your Full-Arch Prosthesis Options
One of the biggest differences between All-on-X treatments is the prosthesis placed on top of the implants. While two patients may both have implants supporting a complete arch, the materials, design, durability, aesthetics and cost of their final teeth can be very different.
Feature | Acrylic / Denture-Style | Reinforced Hybrid | Zirconia |
|---|---|---|---|
Relative Cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
Strength | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
Stain Resistance | Moderate | Good | Excellent |
Wear Resistance | Moderate | Good | Excellent |
Aesthetics | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
Repairability | Generally easier | Generally easier | More complex |
Long-Term Maintenance | Typically higher | Moderate | Typically lower material wear |
Side by Side
Comparing Your Full-Arch Options
There is no single material that is right for every patient. The best choice depends on your bite, anatomy, aesthetic expectations, lifestyle, treatment goals and budget.
The Temporary Prosthesis
In many cases, patients receive a fixed temporary prosthesis shortly after implant placement. These teeth allow you to smile and function while the implants heal—and give your dental team an opportunity to evaluate:
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Tooth shape and size
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Smile position
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Speech
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Bite
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Comfort
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Lip support
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Overall appearance
Your Final Prosthesis
Once healing is complete, this information can be used to design your definitive teeth. Your final prosthesis may then be fabricated from acrylic, reinforced composite, zirconia or another material selected specifically for your situation.
Fixed—But Still Designed to Be Maintained:
All-on-X teeth are typically fixed in place, so you do not remove them yourself like a traditional denture. They still require daily cleaning and professional maintenance. Your dental team will show you how to clean underneath and around your new teeth using appropriate brushes, flossing aids or water-flossing devices.
Not all teeth are the same
Your Full-Arch Prosthesis Options
One of the biggest differences between All-on-X treatments is the prosthesis placed on top of the implants. While two patients may both have implants supporting a complete arch, the materials, design, durability, aesthetics and cost of their final teeth can be very different.
Timing
Can I Get Teeth the Same Day?
In selected cases, yes. When the implants achieve sufficient stability and other clinical conditions are favourable, a temporary fixed prosthesis may be attached shortly after implant placement. This is sometimes referred to as immediate loading or “teeth in a day.”
However, same-day fixed teeth are not appropriate for every patient. Your dentist will determine whether immediate loading is suitable based on implant stability, bone quality, bite and other clinical factors.
In some situations, the implants may need additional time to heal before they can safely support a fixed prosthesis. During this healing period, a removable temporary prosthesis (temporary denture) may be used. Once the implants have healed sufficiently and the appropriate clinical criteria are met, the removable prosthesis can be replaced with a fixed implant-supported prosthesis. The teeth provided during this stage are generally temporary teeth, not the final zirconia or other definitive prosthesis.
Candidacy
Is All-on-X Right for Me?
All-on-X treatment may be considered for patients who:
Are missing all or most of their teeth
Currently wear complete dentures
Have multiple failing or severely compromised teeth
Want to explore a fixed alternative to removable dentures
Have experienced significant dental deterioration
Want to restore an entire upper or lower arch
Some patients may require additional procedures or alternative treatment depending on their bone anatomy, medical history and oral health. A comprehensive examination and 3D assessment are necessary before determining whether All-on-X is appropriate.
From Functional to Premium: Treatment Can Be Customized
One of the advantages of modern full-arch implant dentistry is that treatment can be customized. For some patients, the priority is obtaining fixed teeth at the most accessible cost possible. For others, the priority is creating a highly aesthetic, durable zirconia restoration designed to closely reproduce natural teeth and gums. And many patients choose an option somewhere in between.
The implants provide the foundation. The prosthesis determines how your new teeth ultimately look, feel, function and wear over time.
Our Contact
Get in touch
Whether you're booking your first visit or have a quick question, we're here to help. Reach out by phone, stop by the clinic, or visit us online—our friendly team is always happy to hear from you!
Our Address
3900 Steveston Hwy
Unit 120
Richmond, BC V7E 2K1
Working hours
Mon: 8am - 4pm, Tue to Thu: 9am - 7pm
Fri: 9am - 5pm, Sat: 9am - 4pm
Sun: Closed
Ample free parking!
Conveniently located next to Shopper's Drug Mart, Bank of Montreal, and Dairy Queen.