This is probably the first question on everyone’s mind when they’re considering All-on-4, and fair enough too. As a dentist at Townsville Dental Clinic, I reckon it’s important to be upfront about costs so you can plan properly and know exactly what you’re in for.
Our Dentist’s Direct Answer
“Here in Townsville, All-on-4 dental implants typically cost between $20,000 and $30,000 per arch, depending on the materials used and complexity of your case. That covers the surgical procedure, four implants, temporary teeth on the same day, and your final permanent prosthetic. At Townsville Dental Clinic, we find most North Queensland patients fall somewhere in the middle of that range. It’s a significant investment, but you’re getting a permanent solution that includes everything from start to finish, including all followup appointments and adjustments.”
What’s Actually Included in That Price
When I quote All-on-4 costs to Townsville patients, I make sure they understand what they’re getting for their money. The price covers the complete treatment from consultation through to your final teeth, not just the implants themselves.
You’re getting a comprehensive CT scan and digital treatment planning, which we use to map out the precise implant placement. The surgery itself includes four titanium implants per arch, plus the abutments that connect the implants to your teeth. On the same day as surgery, we fit temporary teeth so you’re never without a smile.
After three to six months of healing, we create and fit your final permanent prosthetic. This is custom made to suit your face, bite, and preferences. All the followup appointments, adjustments, and checkups during the treatment process are included too. Here at Townsville Dental Clinic, we don’t hit you with hidden extras down the track.
Factors That Can Push the Price Up or Down
The range between $20,000 and $30,000 exists because every patient’s situation is a bit different. If your case is straightforward with good bone density and no complications, you’ll likely be at the lower end. If we need to do extractions first or deal with more complex bone situations, costs edge higher.
The type of prosthetic you choose makes a difference. A high impact acrylic prosthetic is the most affordable option and works brilliantly for most people. Porcelain or zirconia options look incredibly natural and are more stain resistant, but they add several thousand dollars to the total cost.
Some patients need bone grafting even with All-on-4, though this is less common. If you’re a heavy smoker or have certain health conditions, we might need to take extra precautions that add to the complexity. Treatment for both upper and lower arches obviously doubles the cost, though some dentists offer package deals.
In my experience treating North Queensland locals, I find that being honest about potential additional costs upfront saves everyone stress later on.
Making All-on-4 More Affordable
I get it, $20,000 to $30,000 is serious money for most Townsville families. That’s why we offer payment plans at Townsville Dental Clinic that let you spread the cost over time, making monthly payments instead of one massive lump sum.
Many private health funds provide some coverage for dental implants, typically around $1,500 to $3,000 depending on your level of cover. It’s not huge, but every bit helps. Worth checking with your fund to see what you’re entitled to.
Some patients use superannuation early release on compassionate grounds for dental treatment, though there are specific criteria you need to meet. Others save up over a year or two while maintaining their current dentures, then go ahead when they’ve got the funds ready.
The payment plan option is probably the most popular among patients here. It means you can get your new teeth now and pay them off gradually, rather than waiting years to save up the full amount. Let’s face it, your quality of life improves immediately, not in five years when you’ve finally saved enough.
How All-on-4 Stacks Up Against Other Options
When patients ask me about cost, I reckon it’s important to compare All-on-4 to the alternatives. Traditional full arch implants with six to eight implants per arch typically run $35,000 to $50,000, so All-on-4 gives you a permanent implant solution for substantially less.
Dentures seem cheap initially, maybe $2,000 to $4,000 for a decent set. But here’s the thing: dentures need relining every couple of years, adjustments, adhesives, and complete replacement every five to seven years. Over 20 years, you’re looking at similar costs to All-on-4, except you’re dealing with all the hassles of removable dentures that whole time.
Individual implants for each missing tooth would cost an absolute fortune, easily over $100,000 for a full mouth. All-on-4 gives you the benefits of implants at a fraction of that cost by using just four implants to support a full arch.
The value proposition becomes clear when you think long term. You’re getting 20 plus years of permanent, fixed teeth that function like natural ones. No adhesives, no embarrassing moments, no dietary restrictions. For many Townsville locals, that peace of mind and quality of life is worth the investment.
Is It Worth the Money?
This is the question I hear after we discuss costs. In my years at Townsville Dental Clinic, I’ve seen how All-on-4 transforms people’s lives. Patients who couldn’t eat properly, who avoided social situations, who felt decades older than they were, suddenly get their confidence and lifestyle back.
The practical benefits are massive. You can eat whatever you want, your speech improves, and you’re not constantly worried about your teeth. The health benefits matter too, because proper chewing helps with digestion and nutrition.
Most patients tell me they wish they’d done it sooner. The investment pays dividends every single day in improved quality of life, better health, and restored confidence.
If you’ve got questions about All-on-4 costs or want to discuss payment options for your situation, pop into Townsville Dental Clinic and we can work out what makes sense for your budget and needs.
