Full-arch options · Waterloo, SE1

All-on-4 vs implant-retained dentures vs dentures

Replacing a whole arch of teeth is a big decision. Here is a plain comparison of a conventional denture, a denture that clips onto implants and a fixed All-on-4 bridge, with our Waterloo prices, so you can come to your consultation with the right questions.

All three options under one roofCBCT scan on site0% finance with Tabeo*

Waterloo prices

  • Implant consultation: £75
  • Acrylic dentures: from £350
  • Chrome dentures: from £1,000
  • Implant-retained denture: quoted individually
  • All-on-4: from £6,495 per arch

Three ways to replace a full arch

If you have lost most or all of your teeth in one jaw, or your remaining teeth cannot be saved, there are three main routes. A conventional denture sits on the gums. An implant-retained denture (overdenture) clips onto a small number of implants, so it stays put but still comes out. An All-on-4 bridge is a full arch of teeth fixed to four implants, so it stays in all the time. Each has a place, and the right choice depends on your mouth, your bone, your budget and how you want your teeth to feel day to day.

See the difference

Conventional dentureRests on the gumsNo implantsRemovablesits on the gumImplant overdentureClips onto 2–4 implantsRemovableclicks on and offAll-on-4 fixed bridgeFixed to four implantsFixed in placeback two implants angled

A lower jaw shown three ways: a denture resting on the gum, an overdenture clipping onto implants, and an All-on-4 fixed bridge on four implants with the back two angled. Illustration only.

Side-by-side comparison

DentureImplant-retained dentureAll-on-4
Stays in or removableRemovable; held by fit and suction, sometimes adhesiveRemovable; clips firmly onto implantsFixed; only your dentist removes it
CleaningTake out, brush and soak; clean your gumsUnclip to clean; brush around the attachmentsBrush in place, clean underneath with special brushes or a water flosser
Palate (upper jaw)Usually covers the roof of your mouthSometimes a smaller plateNo plate
Number of implantsNoneUsually 2–4 for a lower, often more for an upperFour per arch
Cost levelFrom £350 (acrylic); chrome from £1,000Quoted individually after your scanFrom £6,495 per arch

Chrome dentures have a thin metal framework and are often used as partial dentures. Your dentist will tell you which type suits your mouth.

Which one fits your life?

Conventional denture

The quickest and most affordable route, with no surgery. A good choice if you want to keep things simple, or as a first step while you think about implants. Lower dentures can feel loose, especially when eating.

Implant-retained denture

A middle path. The denture clips on securely for meetings, meals out and the commute, but still comes out at night for cleaning. Fewer implants than a fixed arch, and sometimes your existing denture can be adapted.

All-on-4 fixed bridge

Teeth that stay in, with no plate across the palate and nothing to take out. It is the biggest upfront investment and involves surgery, but many people like how close it feels to having their own teeth back.

Not sure yet?

That is normal. Many patients start with a denture and move to implants later. Your consultation is a chance to weigh all three without any pressure to decide on the day.

How the treatment journeys differ

  1. Conventional denture
    Impressions or scans, a try-in to check the look and bite, then fitting. Usually a handful of short visits, with adjustments as your gums settle.
  2. Implant-retained denture
    Consultation and CBCT scan, implants placed under local anaesthetic, a few months of healing while you wear a denture, then the clips are fitted.
  3. All-on-4
    Consultation and CBCT scan, any remaining teeth removed and four implants placed under local anaesthetic. A temporary fixed bridge is often fitted soon afterwards, if suitable, with the final bridge made after healing.
  4. For all three
    Regular check-ups keep your gums, bone and new teeth healthy. Dentures and overdentures need relining or new clips from time to time.

What about bone?

When teeth are lost, the jawbone in that area can slowly shrink. A conventional denture does not stop this, which is one reason dentures can loosen over the years. Implants place load back into the bone. With All-on-4, the two back implants are angled so they can often make use of the bone that is available. If extra bone is needed for any implant option, we explain the choices, which may include grafting, and include it in your written quote. Our on-site CBCT scanner shows your bone in 3D before you commit.

Meet your implant dentist

Dr Antikleia Nalmpanti (Dr Anti)General Dentist – Implant & Aesthetic Dentistry · GDC No. 20000816 years in private practice with a special interest in dental implants, guided implant placement and full-arch rehabilitation.

Compare our All-on-4, implant-retained dentures and dentures pages for more detail.

Full-arch questions we hear in Waterloo

Can I go from a denture to All-on-4 later?

Often, yes. Many people start with a denture and move to an implant option when the time is right. Your scan shows what is possible now and in future.

Will I be without teeth during treatment?

We plan to avoid that. With overdentures you normally wear a denture while the implants heal; with All-on-4 a temporary fixed bridge is often fitted soon after placement, where suitable.

Does implant surgery hurt?

Implants are placed under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some swelling and tenderness afterwards is normal. We do not offer sedation.

How long will I need off work?

For a denture, usually none. After implant surgery, many people take a day or two off, especially after All-on-4. We will help you plan treatment around your work diary.

Can I spread the cost?

Yes. 0% finance through Tabeo is available on many treatments, subject to status. Your written quote shows every stage first.

Related: All-on-4 · Implant-retained dentures · Crowns, bridges and dentures · Full mouth restorations · Implant costs · All fees

Not sure which full-arch option is right for you?

Book an implant consultation (£75) with Dr Anti at 223 Waterloo Road, London SE1 8XH, with a CBCT scan on site if needed and a written quote for each option.