Implant-supported dentures are one of the best methods for total tooth replacement, as they provide an unmatched level of stability. Where traditional dentures often fall short, dentures secured by dental implants enhance function and improve the quality of life for patients like you. However, there are many different implant denture options, each with its own unique style and function. All on 6, for example, describes using six conventional dental implants placed strategically around your jawbone to secure a denture prosthetic. While effective, conventional implants have various drawbacks that make them less than ideal for many patients. Fortunately, East Longmeadow Family Dental Center offers a more comfortable alternative that provides the same level of stability. Introducing the Fix-on-Six implant placement system, using mini dental implants!
The Unfortunate Drawbacks of All on 6
The All on 6 placement system utilizes six conventional dental implants to support a full-arch restoration. While reliable, this placement method is often intense.

Each titanium implant has an average of 5 mm in diameter, which is roughly the same width as an eraser at the end of a pencil. To place these implants, we must create matching holes in your jawbone. First, we’ll make an incision in your gums to expose the bone underneath. Then, using a sequence of drills, we gradually create spaces in your bone for the implant. After carefully screwing the implant body in place, we’ll stitch your gums up to facilitate healing.
During the healing period, your implants will undergo the osseointegration process, allowing them to bond with your bone. While this creates an incredibly strong foundation for your denture, it usually takes around 4-5 months, partially because the invasive procedure disturbs a significant portion of the bone tissue. Once secure, we will place the abutment, or connector piece, on your implant, allowing the denture to attach securely to your conventional implants.
Unfortunately, this process isn’t suitable for everyone, as it is often time-consuming and invasive. Healing from the All on 6 placement system takes time and can create a strain on your body. Often, this healing process becomes challenging for older adults or those with health issues.
Additionally, the All on 6 system requires ample jawbone structure for placement. If you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, you often need a bone graft to rebuild lost bone. While effective, additional procedures like bone grafts add to the cost and length of your implant process.
Fix-on-6: The All on 6 Alternative
At East Longmeadow Family Dental Center, we provide a more comfortable and accessible solution to total tooth loss that is just as effective.
Instead of using the All on 6 placement system, we prefer to use the Fix-on-Six method! This system secures a semi-permanent denture, meaning that while you never remove it, we will at routine dental visits for cleaning. Similar to All on 6, this process involves placing six implants strategically around your jawbone to support a denture restoration. However, the main difference lies in the type of implant!
Fix-on-Six utilizes mini dental implants, the smaller and sleeker version of a conventional implant. Mini implants are less than 3 mm in diameter, which is almost half the size of a conventional implant. Due to their smaller diameter, mini implants offer significant benefits to patients.
These benefits include:
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The Fix-on-Six method involves placing six mini implants strategically around your jawbone to support a semi-removable restoration. Minimally invasive procedure: The narrow diameter of mini implants allows for a minimally invasive procedure, eliminating the need for incisions or sutures. Instead, we create a tiny pilot hole in your gums and bone that preserves the tissues surrounding your implant. This is a much more comfortable procedure that utilizes less bone structure in your jaw.
- Faster healing time: In combination with their threaded design, the minimally invasive implant process allows mini implants to instantly bond with your jaw. Immediately after placement, these implants are strong enough to support a temporary denture. Additionally, rather than waiting a few months for the final restoration, you’ll have your final denture in just a matter of weeks!
- Less expensive cost: With a sleek one-piece design, fewer appointments, and often no additional procedures like a bone graft, you save both time and money with the Fix-on-Six method.
Experience Comfort With Fix-on-Six at East Longmeadow Family Dental Center
Implant dentures are a reliable and secure method to replace missing teeth. Unfortunately, not every system is suitable for every patient! If the All on 6 implant method isn’t suited for your needs, try Fix-on-Six! With mini implants in place, you can restore your smile comfortably and reliably at an affordable price!
Book a free consultation to learn which method is best for your smile.
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