Am I suitable for All-on-6?
Most adults in reasonable health can be considered. A few things make it riskier, and it's better to know them before you plan.
Medically reviewed by Dt. Hüseyin Yavuz Özbek, implant surgeon · Updated October 2026All-on-6 often suits adults who have lost most of their teeth, have enough jawbone for six implants (or can have it built up), are in reasonable general health and can clean carefully every day. It needs more caution if you smoke or drink heavily, have uncontrolled gum disease or diabetes, take bone-strengthening medicines, or have had head and neck radiotherapy. Only an examination and a 3D scan can confirm it.
A private self-check
Tick anything that applies. Nothing is sent or stored; it simply shows which topics to raise with a dentist.
This is not a diagnosis. It doesn't replace an examination, X-rays or a 3D scan.
What usually makes it a good fit
- Most teeth in a jaw are missing, or failing from decay or gum disease.
- Enough bone along the jaw for six implants, or bone that can be built up.
- Reasonable general health, so minor surgery and healing go smoothly.
- Willingness to clean under the bridge every day and go to regular check-ups.
The British Society of Periodontology says implants suit most fully grown adults with no dental disease and in good general health, who can also afford the ongoing maintenance.
Things that need a careful conversation
- Active gum disease. The BSP says untreated or active dental disease can lead to implant failure, and gum disease must be stable before implants. A history of periodontitis is one of the main risk factors for peri-implantitis.
- Smoking and heavy drinking. The BSP lists active heavy smokers and alcohol consumers among those for whom implants may not be suitable. Smoking is also a risk factor for peri-implantitis.
- Diabetes. Linked with a higher risk of peri-implantitis in the AO/AAP review summarised by the BSP. Good control matters.
- Bone-strengthening medicines. The NHS says that if you're having dental implants while taking alendronic acid there's a very small chance of damage to the jawbone. Always tell your dentist about these medicines, including past injections.
- Head and neck radiotherapy. It affects how the jawbone heals; specialist planning is needed.
- Little bone left. Doesn't rule you out, but may change the plan: a graft, four angled implants, or zygomatic implants. See why six implants.
When something else may suit you better
If a denture already feels secure, or surgery worries you, a well-made denture or a denture that clips onto two to four implants may be enough. Compare honestly in All-on-6 vs dentures.
What an assessment should include
- A full medical history, including every medicine and supplement.
- A panoramic X-ray, then a 3D (CBCT) scan to measure the bone.
- A gum health check, and treatment first if needed.
- A written plan: number of implants, brand, materials, and the reason for each choice.
Common questions
Am I too old for All-on-6?
Age on its own isn't usually the issue. General health, bone, medicines and being able to clean the bridge matter more. The British Society of Periodontology found age had no consistent influence on peri-implant disease.
Can I have All-on-6 if I smoke?
Sometimes, but smoking raises the risk of implant problems and gum infection around implants. Stopping, or at least cutting down before and after surgery, improves your chances.
Can I have All-on-6 with diabetes?
Often, if it's well controlled. Diabetes is a recognised risk factor for peri-implantitis, so your dentist will ask about your control and may want to speak to your GP.
What if I don't have enough bone?
A bone graft or sinus lift may be suggested first, or a plan with four angled implants instead of six. In severe cases, cheekbone (zygomatic) implants are an option.
Sources
- British Society of Periodontology — Patient FAQs: dental implants (who can't have implants)
- British Society of Periodontology — Research Corner: risk factors for peri-implant diseases (AO/AAP systematic review)
- NHS — Alendronic acid: common questions (dental implants)
- Oral Health Foundation — Understanding dental implants (bone check)
Checked October 2026. Where we give our own view as a clinic, we say so.
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Tell us what you're considering. A real person replies in plain English, and will tell you honestly if All-on-6 isn't the right step for you.