All-On-4 Dental Implants Warrnambool | Dr Nishant Hurria Answers FAQs
If you’ve been told you need full upper or lower dentures — but hate the thought of loose-fitting plates or removable options — the All-On-4 Dental Implant solution might be what you’ve been looking for.
I’m Dr Nishant Hurria, principal dentist at Warrnambool Dental, and in this post, I’ll answer the most common questions our patients ask about this life-changing treatment.
What Is the All-On-4 Dental Implant System?
All-On-4 refers to a fixed full-arch dental bridge supported by just four titanium implants, replacing all missing or failing teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
Instead of needing an implant for every tooth, the All-On-4 system uses four strategically placed implants (sometimes up to six), allowing us to anchor a full row of new teeth with minimal surgery and faster recovery time.
Is It Really Possible to Replace All Teeth with Just Four Implants?
Yes — and that’s the beauty of the system.
The two implants at the front are placed vertically, while the two at the back are angled to maximise contact with available bone, even in areas where bone loss has occurred.
This clever design:
- Minimises the need for bone grafting
- Reduces surgery time
- Allows for immediate function with a fixed temporary bridge
What Are the Benefits of All-On-4 Compared to Traditional Dentures?
- Fixed in place — no slipping, no adhesives, no taking them out at night
- Immediate results — walk out with a new smile the same day as surgery
- Restore your bite — enjoy most foods again with confidence
- Preserves jawbone — prevents bone shrinkage and maintains facial shape
- Improves speech and self-confidence
- Long-lasting and easy to maintain
How Long Does the All-On-4 Procedure Take?
At Warrnambool Dental, we follow a proven, predictable process:
- Initial Consultation
We assess your oral health, take 3D scans, and plan your case digitally. - Surgical Day
Implants are placed, and a fixed temporary bridge is fitted on the same day. This is known as “Teeth-in-a-Day.” - Healing Period
Over the next few months, your jawbone integrates with the implants (osseointegration). - Final Restoration
After healing, we replace the temporary bridge with your custom-designed, permanent zirconia or acrylic bridge.
Will My Results Look Natural?
Absolutely. We custom-design each smile to suit your face shape, bite, lip line, and personal preferences. Materials like zirconia provide incredible strength and a natural, tooth-like appearance.
We also pay attention to gum contouring and facial support to ensure your smile looks healthy, natural, and uniquely yours.
How Long Do All-On-4 Implants Last?
When properly cared for, the implants themselves can last a lifetime. The prosthetic bridge may require replacement after 10 to 15 years depending on wear, habits, and hygiene.
To ensure long-term success, we recommend:
- Twice-daily brushing
- Use of a water flosser or special floss under the bridge
- Six-monthly professional check-ups and cleans
Is the Procedure Painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and IV sedation — also known as Sleep Dentistry — so you are comfortable and calm throughout.
Post-surgical discomfort is typically mild and well-managed with prescribed medications. Most patients return to light duties within two to three days.
Can I Eat Normally After the Surgery?
In the first two weeks, we recommend a soft food diet to allow for healing. After that, you’ll gradually transition to more solid foods.
Once the final bridge is in place, you can eat most of the foods you love — without fear of dentures slipping or causing discomfort.
What Materials Are Used?
At Warrnambool Dental, we use premium materials for strength, hygiene, and aesthetics:
- Monolithic Zirconia: Ultra-strong and stain-resistant with excellent aesthetics
- Acrylic-over-Titanium: Lightweight and affordable, with a shock-absorbing effect
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Used in some custom cases where added detail is required
We’ll help you choose the best material based on your bite, budget, and long-term goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for All-On-4?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are missing most or all teeth in an arch
- Have failing teeth due to gum disease or decay
- Wear dentures but want a permanent alternative
- Have experienced bone loss and been told you’re not a candidate for regular implants
We offer bone grafting and advanced imaging to assess your suitability. Many patients who were once told no now qualify thanks to modern techniques.
What Does It Cost?
The investment depends on whether you require:
- Upper, lower, or both arches
- Temporary and permanent bridge options
- Sedation and ancillary procedures (e.g., extractions, bone grafts)
We’ll provide a clear, written quote after your consultation — and we offer:
- Interest-free payment plans
- Early release of superannuation support
- Claiming via private health insurance (where applicable)
What Is the Success Rate of All-On-4?
Clinical studies and our own experience show success rates of over 95 percent for All-On-4 when placed correctly and maintained well.
Factors that influence long-term results include:
- Smoking (we encourage quitting)
- Oral hygiene
- Overall health
How Do I Get Started?
Your first step is a personal consultation with me here at Warrnambool Dental.
We’ll discuss your options, take 3D scans, answer your questions, and help you understand whether All-On-4 is right for you — with no pressure.
Call (03) 5562 4433
Visit us at 454A Raglan Parade, Warrnambool VIC 3280
Request an appointment online at www.warrnambooldental.com.au
We welcome patients from Mount Gambier, Hamilton, Portland, Port Fairy, Colac, Camperdown, and the wider south-west region.