If you're looking for a definitive solution for your teeth, you've probably come across these three names: All-on-4, All-on-6, All-on-8. Perhaps your dentist mentioned one of them. Perhaps you've read something online and found yourself more confused than before.

It's normal. The difference between these three solutions isn't always explained clearly — often, numbers are discussed without contextualising what they truly mean for the patient.

In this article, we'll do just that, in a straightforward way and without unnecessary jargon. This way, when you have your consultation with our team, you'll already know what we're talking about.

First of all: what do they have in common?

All three solutions share the same basic principle. Titanium implants are inserted into the upper or lower jawbone, and a complete dental prosthesis – the entire arch – is permanently fixed onto these implants.

None of the three is a removable prosthesis. None are taken out at night. All allow you to eat, talk, and smile as you would with natural teeth.

The difference – and it's an important one – lies in number of installations, and consequently in the load distribution, stability, and clinical suitability of each patient.

All-on-4: the solution with four implants

The name says it all: four implants per arch, two anterior ones positioned vertically and two posterior ones angled to make the most of the available bone volume.

It is the most widespread solution worldwide, and for good reason. It works well in most cases, often requires less bone compared to alternatives with more implants, and allows for the immediate placement of a provisional prosthesis within the first 24-48 hours.

Who is the All-on-4 best suited for?

For patients with moderate bone loss, those who want to minimise intervention time, and those seeking a tried-and-tested solution with a long clinical history. It is also the most researched solution in scientific literature, which offers a certain peace of mind.

The limit? With just four anchor points, the load on each implant is greater. In some cases — particularly reduced jaws, patients with intense chewing habits, or simply bone of less than optimal quality — four implants might not be the safest long-term choice.

Find out all about the treatment on our dedicated page for All-on-4 implants in Albania.

All-on-6: the break-even point

With six implants per arch, the All-on-6 offers superior load distribution compared to the All-on-4. More points of contact with the bone mean less pressure on each implant, greater prosthesis stability over time, and a lower probability of long-term problems.

It's not simply “better” than All-on-4 across the board — it's a different solution, suited to different situations.

Who is All-on-6 best suited for?

For patients with sufficient but not abundant bone volume, for those with a maxillary structure that does not lend itself to the posterior implant angulation required by All-on-4, and for those who want maximum possible stability without reaching the complexity of All-on-8.

It is often the recommended solution for those who have worn removable dentures for years and want something permanently fixed, with high safety margins. You can find out more on our dedicated page about All-on-6 implants in Albania.

All-on-8: the most complete rehabilitation

Eight implants per arch. It is the most solid solution in absolute terms, the one that comes closest to the load distribution of a complete natural dentition.

It's not the solution for everyone, and not because it's “too much” – it simply requires adequate bone volume to optimally place eight implants, and not all patients have this without preparatory procedures.

Who is All-on-8 best suited for?

For patients with good residual bone volume, those who have already completed a bone grafting procedure, those seeking maximum longevity for their treatment, and those with particularly intense chewing needs. It is also the preferred choice for the upper jaw, where bone quality tends to differ from that of the lower jaw.

For those who wish to learn more, you can consult our page on All-on-8 implants in Albania.

Direct Comparison: All-on-4 vs All-on-6 vs All-on-8

Feature	All-on-4	All-on-6	All-on-8
Arch implants	4	6	8
Load distribution	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Required bone volume	Moderate	Moderately good	Good
Need for bone grafting	Rare	Rare	Occasional
Same-day temporary prosthesis	Yes	Yes	Yes
Long-term stability	High	Very high	Maximum
Suitable for complete edentulism	Yes	Yes	Yes
Surgical complexity	Media	Medium-high	High
Treatment times	Likeness	Likeness	Likeness

As you can see, the differences aren't abysmal – but in medicine, even the details count for a lot. Two extra implants can make the difference between a prosthesis lasting 10 years and one lasting 25.

So, which one to choose?

This is the question every patient asks. And the honest answer is: you can't know without a clinical evaluation.

Not because we want to be evasive, but because the choice between All-on-4, All-on-6, and All-on-8 depends on variables that are literally measured. Bone density, available volume, nerve position, soft tissue quality, the condition of any remaining teeth. These are all things that emerge from a CT scan and a consultation with our team.

What we can tell you is this: none of the three solutions is absolutely superior. The best solution is the one that best suits you, your mouth, your lifestyle, and your expectations.

How does Hygeia Dent's assessment work?

Hygeia Dent is a dental hospital in Tirana, located within Hygeia Hospital – the most modern healthcare facility in the Balkans. We are not just any dental clinic: we operate with hospital protocols, advanced diagnostic technologies, and a multidisciplinary team that handles every aspect of your journey.

You can also start remotely. Send your panoramic X-rays or CT scan to our team: we'll carry out a free preliminary assessment and tell you which solutions are compatible with your situation. No obligation, no cost.

If the assessment confirms suitability, we arrange the first appointment in Tirana. In most cases, the patient returns home with a fixed temporary prosthesis after the first trip.

How much do you save compared to Italy?

Italian patients choosing Hygeia Dent save on average up to 70 percent% compared to quotes received in Italy for the same treatment — whether it's All-on-4, All-on-6 or All-on-8.

The reason is not inferior quality. The materials we use, the implant systems, the diagnostic technologies and our team's training are the same as you would find in the best European clinics. The difference is structural: the cost of living and labour in Albania is simply different to that in Italy.

Note: The indicated savings are an average estimate based on our patients' feedback and do not represent a fixed price. We do not publish price lists because each case is assessed individually – the costs depend on the type of solution, the materials chosen, and the specific clinical situation. For a precise and personalised quotation, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I choose which solution to implement? 

You can express your preferences, and we will listen. However, the final decision must be guided by your clinical situation. Sometimes a patient wants All-on-8 when they have ideal conditions for All-on-6 – and in that case, we will explain why, with data to back it up.

If I have a small jaw, can I still do these treatments? 

It depends on how much bone is available. In many cases, it's possible to proceed without grafts. In others, a preparatory procedure is necessary. We'll determine this after the diagnostic assessment.

Can I do just one jaw and not the other? 

Absolutely. The two arches are independent. Many patients start with one and complete the other at a later date.

How many times do I have to come to Tirana? 

Generally twice: once for the implants and the temporary prosthesis, and again (after a few months) for the definitive prosthesis. We help you plan everything, including practical advice on how to organise your stay.

What happens if an installation does not integrate?

 It's a rare but possible occurrence. In that case, we'll assess the situation and, if necessary, redo the implant. Complication management is part of the protocol – we won't leave you on your own.

How do I know where to start? 

Contact us. It's the easiest and quickest way. Send us your X-rays, tell us about your situation, and our team will respond with a free preliminary evaluation. From there, we'll decide on the next steps together.

The next step is simpler than you think

Choosing between All-on-4, All-on-6, and All-on-8 isn't something you have to do alone, in front of a screen. It's a decision you make together with a team of specialists, with all the necessary clinical data.

Hygeia Dent is here for that. A dental hospital in Tirana, with international standards, just a few hours from Italy — and with an approach that puts the patient at the centre of every decision.

Request a free consultation. We will tell you the right solution for you, what to expect from the process, and how much you can save compared to Italian quotes.