The All-on-4 cost Sydney patients are quoted varies from person to person, because the fee depends on your CT scan, bone levels, any extractions, the bridge materials and whether one or both arches are treated. That is why All-on-4 is quoted individually after a full assessment rather than as a set price.
This article explains what typically makes up an All-on-4 fee, what to ask about, and how to compare quotes fairly.
Why All-on-4 is quoted after assessment
All-on-4 replaces a full arch of teeth with a fixed bridge attached to four implants. Each person’s jaw is different, so the amount of planning, surgery and lab work differs too.
Before a fee can be given, your dentist needs a clinical examination, X-rays and a 3D CT scan. The scan shows bone height and width, the position of nerves and sinuses, and where implants can be safely placed.
Your dentist also reviews your medical history, your bite and any remaining teeth. Only then can a written treatment plan list every step and its fee.
You can read about the treatment itself on our All-on-4 dental implants page.
Because every plan is individual, two people of a similar age can receive quite different quotes. That reflects differences in their mouths rather than differences in quality.
What an All-on-4 fee usually includes
A complete All-on-4 quote generally covers a series of components. Ask for each to be listed so you know exactly what you are paying for.
- Consultation, scans and planning: examination, CT scan, photographs and digital planning of implant positions.
- Extractions: removal of any remaining teeth in the arch, if needed.
- Implant surgery: placement of four (sometimes more) implants and the abutments that connect them to the bridge.
- Temporary bridge: a fixed provisional bridge usually fitted soon after surgery while the implants integrate.
- Final bridge: the long-term bridge, made after healing, often several months later.
- Review appointments: post-operative checks and adjustments to the bite.
Sedation or general anaesthetic, if chosen, may be charged separately. A night guard to protect the bridge may also be recommended and quoted.
Factors that change the cost
Several things move an All-on-4 quote up or down. Your dentist will explain which apply to you.
One arch or two
Treating both upper and lower arches involves roughly double the surgery and lab work of a single arch. Some people need only one arch treated, while the other is restored with crowns, a bridge or a denture.
Bone and extractions
All-on-4 is designed to use angled implants that can often avoid grafting. Some people still need extra procedures, and extractions add time and cost. See bone grafting before implants for when grafting comes up.
Bridge material
Final bridges can be made from acrylic on a metal framework, or from zirconia or other ceramics. Materials differ in strength, appearance, repairability and price, and your dentist can explain the trade-offs.
Medical and dental history
Gum disease, smoking or health conditions may mean extra appointments before surgery can safely go ahead.
Comparing quotes and paying for treatment
When comparing quotes, check that each includes the same items: scans, extractions, temporary bridge, final bridge and reviews. A lower headline figure may exclude the final bridge or follow-up care.
It is also reasonable to ask how many implants are planned, what the bridge is made of, and what maintenance appointments will involve. Clear answers help you compare like with like.
Health funds differ, so check your extras cover, annual limits and waiting periods directly with your fund. We can provide the item numbers from your treatment plan so your fund can give you a quote.
For a single missing tooth rather than a full arch, our dental implant cost page explains how single-implant fees are worked out. If you are weighing up a removable option, read All-on-4 vs dentures, and for an overview of all options see our complete guide to dental implants.
Questions to ask at your consultation
A consultation is your chance to understand the plan before committing. It can help to write your questions down beforehand and bring someone with you.
- How many implants do you recommend, and why?
- Will any teeth need to be removed, and will I need grafting?
- What will I wear during healing, and when is the final bridge fitted?
- What material is the final bridge, and how is it repaired if it chips?
- How often will I need maintenance visits, and what do they cost?
- What are the alternatives, including dentures or implant-retained dentures?
Your dentist should be comfortable explaining the reasons behind each recommendation. If something is unclear, ask for it to be written in your treatment plan.
It is also worth asking how long each stage is likely to take, so you can plan time away from work and other commitments.
Risks, recovery and what to expect
All-on-4 is a significant surgical procedure. Expect swelling, bruising and tenderness for several days, and a soft diet for some weeks while the implants integrate.
Risks include infection, bleeding, nerve irritation causing numbness, sinus problems in the upper jaw, implant failure, and fractures or wear of the bridge over time. Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes increase these risks.
The final bridge needs regular professional cleaning and may need repairs or replacement over the years, which is an ongoing cost to factor in. Results vary between people.
If you have trouble breathing or swallowing after surgery, call 000.
To book an All-on-4 assessment at our Walker St practice, call (02) 8090 1108 or read more about dental implants at North Sydney Dentistry.
Frequently asked questions
Why can’t you tell me the All-on-4 price over the phone?
The fee depends on your bone, any extractions, whether one or two arches are treated and the bridge material. These can only be confirmed after an examination and CT scan, after which you receive a written treatment plan.
Is the temporary bridge included in an All-on-4 quote?
It usually is, but this varies between providers. Check that your written treatment plan lists both the temporary bridge and the final bridge.
Will my health fund pay for All-on-4?
Some extras policies contribute towards parts of implant treatment, subject to limits and waiting periods. Ask your fund for a quote using the item numbers in your treatment plan.
Are there ongoing costs after All-on-4?
Yes. You will need regular check-ups and professional cleans, and the bridge may need repairs or replacement over time as it wears.
Book a consultation
North Sydney Dentistry is at Level 1, Suite 102/71 Walker St, North Sydney, a two-minute walk from North Sydney station. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Call (02) 8090 1108 or book online.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your own dentist or doctor. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.