Dec 4, 2025
All-on-4® vs. Traditional Dentures: What’s the Difference?
By Dr. Raheel Thobhani, DMD
If you are facing the loss of all your teeth, you are likely standing at a crossroads between two very different paths. One path is the traditional one: removable dentures. The other is the modern path: All-on-4® dental implants.
At first glance, they might seem to do the same thing: replace your teeth. But the experience of living with them is night and day. At Smyrna Dental Studio, we believe you deserve to know exactly what you are investing in. This guide will break down the critical differences between these two solutions, from how they feel in your mouth to how they impact your health over time.
1. Fixed vs. Removable: The Daily Experience
Traditional Dentures: These are removable prosthetics. They are held in place by suction or messy adhesives. They must be taken out every night for cleaning and to let your gums rest.
All-on-4®: This solution uses four titanium implants to permanently anchor a bridge of teeth to your jaw. They are fixed in place. You brush them like natural teeth, and you never wake up without your smile.
2. Chewing Power and Diet
Traditional Dentures: Because they rest on soft gum tissue, dentures provide only about 20-25% of your natural biting force. This forces many patients to give up hard, crunchy, or chewy foods like steak, raw vegetables, and nuts.
All-on-4®: Because they are anchored to the bone, implants restore 90-95% of your natural chewing power. You can eat a complete, nutritious diet without fear of your teeth slipping or clicking.
3. Bone Health and Facial Structure
Traditional Dentures: When teeth are missing, the jawbone shrinks (resorbs) over time. Dentures do nothing to stop this. In fact, the pressure of the denture on the gums can accelerate bone loss, leading to a "collapsed" or aged facial appearance over the years.
All-on-4®: The titanium implants act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and keeping it dense and strong. This preserves your natural facial structure and youthfulness.
4. Comfort and Taste
Traditional Dentures: A traditional upper denture must cover the entire roof of your mouth (the palate) to create suction. This blocks thousands of taste buds and can trigger a gag reflex.
All-on-4®: The upper bridge is horseshoe-shaped, just like natural teeth. It does not cover the roof of your mouth, allowing you to fully taste your food and speak clearly without bulk.
FAQs: Comparing Your Options
Can I switch from dentures to All-on-4® later?
Yes, absolutely. Many of our All-on-4® patients wore dentures for years and simply got tired of the slipping and glue. However, because dentures cause bone loss over time, it is always better to make the switch sooner rather than later to ensure you have enough bone left for the implants.
Is All-on-4® much more expensive than dentures?
The upfront cost of All-on-4® is significantly higher because it is a sophisticated surgical solution involving titanium implants and a custom-fixed bridge. However, dentures require ongoing costs for adhesives, cleaning solutions, relines, and replacements every 5-7 years. All-on-4® is a one-time investment in a permanent solution.
Is the surgery for All-on-4® painful?
Most patients are surprised by how manageable it is. The procedure is performed under sedation, so you sleep through it. Post-operative discomfort is usually managed well with medication for a few days.
Do All-on-4® teeth look fake?
No. While dentures are often made of acrylic and can look bulky, All-on-4® bridges are custom-designed and often made from zirconia or porcelain, which mimics the translucency and natural beauty of real enamel perfectly.
Choose the Life You Want to Live
The difference between dentures and All-on-4® isn't just about teeth; it's about lifestyle. One requires compromise, while the other offers freedom. If you want to eat what you want, laugh without worry, and protect your health, All-on-4® is the clear winner.
Ready to leave dentures behind? Contact Smyrna Dental Studio today to schedule your consultation and see if All-on-4® is right for you.
