What Happens During an All-on-4 Procedure?

2026 Update

Reviewed by Dr. Jason Fluckiger

Reading time: three minutes

Choosing full-arch dental implants is a big decision, and most patients want to know exactly what the process looks like before moving forward. From the first consultation to walking out with a new smile, the All-on-4 procedure follows a carefully planned sequence designed to restore function, comfort, and confidence as efficiently as possible.

Table of Contents

• 2026 Update
• What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
• What Happens During the All-on-4 Procedure
  • 1. Consultation and Treatment Planning
  • 2. Preparing for Surgery Day
  • 3. Tooth Removal (If Needed)
  • 4. Implant Placement
  • 5. Temporary Teeth the Same Day
• Healing and Recovery After All-on-4 Surgery
• Final Teeth and Long-Term Results
• Partner With AZ Max For Lasting Results
• FAQ

What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants replace an entire upper or lower arch of missing teeth using four to six strategically placed implants that support a fixed, non-removable bridge.

Unlike traditional dentures, the teeth attach securely to implants anchored in the jawbone. Two implants sit toward the front of the jaw, while the back implants sometimes angle slightly to maximize stability and often avoid the need for bone grafting.

What Happens During the All-on-4 Procedure

Although every patient’s treatment plan is customized, the overall process follows a consistent and predictable sequence. Understanding each step can make the experience feel far less intimidating.

1. Consultation and Treatment Planning

Everything starts with a detailed consultation. During this visit, your surgeon reviews your medical history, evaluates your oral health, and discusses your goals for treatment.

Advanced imaging, including 3D scans, allows precise planning of implant placement, bone support, and bite alignment. This planning stage determines whether teeth need to be removed, how many implants are needed, and whether same-day teeth are an option.

2. Preparing for Surgery Day

Once planning is complete, your surgical appointment is scheduled. Before surgery, you receive instructions on medications, eating, and what to expect on the day of the procedure.

Many patients choose IV sedation, which allows them to remain comfortable and unaware during surgery.

3. Tooth Removal (If Needed)

If failing or damaged teeth remain, the surgeon removes them at the beginning of the procedure. Performing extractions and implant placement in the same visit often shortens the overall treatment timeline.

4. Implant Placement

After preparing the jaw, the surgeon places the implants into precise positions. The back implants angle slightly to improve stability and use available bone more effectively.

This step forms the foundation of the new smile. Once placed, the implants provide immediate support for a temporary set of teeth in many cases.

5. Temporary Teeth the Same Day

For most patients, a temporary fixed bridge attaches to the implants on the same day as surgery. This means you leave with a full set of teeth rather than waiting months without them.

These temporary teeth allow normal speaking and light chewing while the implants heal and integrate with the bone.

Healing and Recovery After All-on-4 Surgery

Most people experience swelling, mild discomfort, and tightness for the first few days. Pain medication and following post-operative instructions help manage this phase comfortably.

During early healing, patients follow a soft-food diet to protect the implants while bone integration occurs. Over time, normal chewing ability gradually returns as the implants stabilize.

Follow-up visits allow the surgical team to monitor healing and address any concerns before moving to the final restoration phase.

Final Teeth and Long-Term Results

Once healing is complete, impressions are taken to design the permanent bridge. These final teeth improve strength, appearance, and durability compared to the temporary set.

The completed All-on-4 restoration restores bite function, facial support, and confidence. With proper care and regular checkups, many patients enjoy long-term results that feel and function like natural teeth.

Partner With AZ Max For Lasting Results

The All-on-4 procedure combines careful planning, precise surgery, and guided healing to rebuild a full smile in a predictable way. Knowing what happens at each step helps patients move forward with clarity and confidence.

Schedule a free dental implant consultation with AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in Mesa, North Mesa, Tempe, Queen Creek, and Show Low.

To book an appointment at any one of our locations, call or text (480) 830-5866.

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