Immediate vs Delayed Teeth Placement after All-on-4 Procedures

This blog focuses on a key decision in modern implant dentistry: when should the temporary set of fixed teeth be attached to the dental implants after an All-on-4 or All-on-6 procedure begins?

When this treatment was first introduced, the original goal was simple: have patients leave the office on the same day of surgery with fixed, non-removable teeth – not a denture – and a brand-new smile. In our view, that approach still sets the standard. Thanks to advancements in techniques and technology, this is now safely and efficiently achievable in most cases. So, if you’re not sure if All-on-4 implants can be done in one day, the answer is yes – especially in the hands of the right doctor.

But if you’re considering this treatment, what should you know before making a decision? Let’s take a look. 

Which is better, immediate or delayed implant placement?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer because the best approach ultimately depends on each patient’s unique circumstances. In a typical case, damaged teeth are removed, dental implants are placed, and the process of creating the new dental bridge begins. Within just a few hours, that bridge can often be securely attached to the implants.

Patients come in the morning, and by 2 or 3 p.m., they can walk out with a brand-new smile, confident that their fixed, non-removable teeth will let them smile freely, eat what they love, and fully enjoy life.

As ideal as this outcome is, it’s not uncommon for some patients to be unable to receive their new teeth on the day of surgery.

Why do some doctors choose delayed placement?

There are a few important questions to consider here: how long can you wait to get permanent teeth after extraction, and can you get an extraction and permanent teeth at the same time? For some doctors, the answer leans toward caution. They may not feel fully comfortable or confident performing both the tooth removal and implant placement in a single procedure. Instead, they often choose a more predictable approach: removing the teeth and performing bone grafts first, then waiting 4–6 months for the bone to heal before placing the implants. 

During this healing period, the patient typically wears a denture. This comes after making a significant personal and financial commitment to begin the treatment. Then, after several months, the patient must return for a second surgery, along with the recovery time that follows, all while adapting to a temporary solution in the meantime.

Your new smile could be just one day away

Although there’s still no clear answer to what is the timeline for All-on-4 dental implants, since it depends on each patient’s unique situation, there’s definitely a better way to approach it. It starts with choosing a doctor who’s confident in delivering same-day results, and who’s truly invested in your long-term success.

At Temecula Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, that’s exactly what we offer. We can also discuss additional therapies and strategies that may help support healing and improve your overall outcome. And if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ve just found the right place.