Do you remember the saying, “Bigger is better?” It can be true, sometimes. A bigger paycheck? No complaints there—more money means more financial freedom. A bigger home? Extra space to stretch out and entertain guests sounds like a dream! But when it comes to dental implants, bigger doesn’t always mean better. Traditional dental implants are larger than mini implants, but that doesn’t make them the superior choice. For full-arch tooth replacement, their large size can make implant denture options inaccessible for people with bone loss. The All on 4 system, for example, uses conventional implants to support a denture. So, what options do denture wearers have when they want more stability but don’t have enough bone for traditional implants?
At Utah Denture and Implant Center, we use the Fix-on-Six® technique with mini dental implants—a slim, narrow-diameter option ideal for patients with less jawbone density. This advanced system offers added stability through multiple points of contact while delivering all the benefits of mini implants.
What Is All on 4?
All on 4® is an alternative to a traditional denture that adds four conventional dental implants in the jawbone. These implants support a full arch of teeth, either on the upper or lower jaw. By anchoring the false teeth to implants, patients experience greater comfort and stability.
While All on 4 can be a good option, it isn’t viable for everyone. All on 4 uses traditional dental implants, which average 5 mm wide. The bigger size of conventional implants comes with some notable limitations.
Problems With Traditional Dental Implants
Traditional implants are larger, so they require sufficient bone density for support. If your jawbone has weakened or shrunk over time, a bone graft might be needed first—adding extra time and cost to the process.
The procedure for placing traditional implants is also more invasive, leading to a longer recovery period. Healing typically takes several months, and during this time, eating can be difficult. Many patients are limited to soft foods for a few weeks.
In addition to the longer and more complex process, traditional implants are generally more expensive than alternatives like mini implants. They also feature a two-piece design, which can create a tiny gap between the implant post and the abutment. This space can trap bacteria and increase the risk of peri-implantitis—a condition that, if left untreated, may lead to implant failure.
At Utah Denture and Implant Center, Dr. Reudi Tillmann offers minimally invasive alternatives that are suitable for most patients, even those with low bone density.
The Superior Alternative to All on 4: Fix-on-Six!
Fix-on-Six® is a tooth replacement option designed to restore an entire arch of teeth. This system utilizes six to ten mini dental implants to support a roundhouse dental bridge, offering a secure and long-lasting solution.
Mini dental implants are significantly smaller than traditional implants, measuring less than 3 mm in width. Their compact size makes them ideal for patients with reduced bone volume, eliminating the need for bone grafting.
Thanks to their small size, the procedure for placing mini implants is far less invasive, leading to quicker recovery times and minimal discomfort. Dr. Tillmann simply drills a small hole through your jawbone to insert the small implant. Unlike traditional implants, this process doesn’t require cutting the gums or stitching them closed.
Another major advantage of mini implants is their ability to support immediate loading. In many cases, prosthetic teeth can be attached right after placement, allowing patients to regain function and aesthetics almost instantly. Additionally, their single-unit design—where the implant post and abutment are connected—eliminates the tiny gap found in traditional implants, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup and peri-implantitis.
With fewer required office visits, shorter treatment timelines, and lower overall costs, mini dental implants are an efficient, budget-friendly solution for many patients—especially those seeking a quicker path to a more confident smile.
Book a Free Implant Denture Consultation Today!
When it comes to tooth replacement, the saying “bigger is better” doesn’t always hold true. While traditional implant denture options like All on 4 have their place, the implants’ larger size can create barriers for patients with bone loss. Mini dental implants offer a minimally invasive, cost-effective alternative—with faster recovery, fewer appointments, and the added benefit of immediate tooth replacement.
At Utah Denture and Implant Center, Dr. Reudi Tillmann uses the advanced Fix-on-Six® system to help patients regain comfort, confidence, and lasting function—without the need for bone grafting. Ready to experience the benefits for yourself? Schedule a free implant denture consultation today!
