3 on 6™ Dental Implants Cost and Procedure Guide

For patients who have lost most or all of their teeth due to advanced tooth decay, injury, age or other dental problems, traditional dentures don’t always provide the desired level of comfort or stability.

One permanent solution for replacing a full set of teeth while preserving healthy bone and providing patients with the freedom to eat, speak, kiss and laugh more naturally is 3 on 6™ dental implants.¹

What Are 3 on 6 Dental Implants?

A 3 on 6 dental implant is an advanced tooth replacement method using six dental implants to support three separate dental bridges, each covering a section of the upper or lower jaw. The procedure is intended to replace an entire row of teeth with a permanent solution that looks, feels and functions like natural teeth.¹

Who’s a good candidate?

3 on 6 implants could be ideal for people who have lost upper or lower teeth due to age, gum disease or injury.² These implants can address issues such as difficulty chewing or speaking due to tooth loss. Additionally, 3 on 6 implants can help maintain a patient’s natural, healthy jawbone, which, when teeth are missing, can shrink and affect the stability and function of remaining teeth.²

Good candidates for 3 on 6 dental implants are adults with significant tooth loss who have healthy gums and enough bone density to support multiple implants. Candidates should also be in good general health to support healing. Patients who have untreated dental issues, grind their teeth or take medications that suppress the immune system are not typically considered good candidates.³

How Much Do 3 on 6 Dental Implants Cost?

The national average cost* for 3 on 6 dental implants is $12,474, but the cost ranges from $9,708 to $24,091.⁴

Average cost for 3 on 6 dental implants by state/district

Here is the average cost for 3 on 6 dental implants in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.⁴

Does Dental Insurance Cover 3 on 6 Dental Implants?

Most dental insurance plans do not completely cover 3 on 6 dental implants.⁵ However, some plans may partially cover procedures associated with the 3 on 6 treatment, such as X-rays or implant placement.

It’s important to check with your insurance provider for clarity on what is or isn’t covered under your dental plan.

How the 3 on 6 Procedure Works

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with getting a 3 on 6 dental implant.

Preparation

The 3 on 6 dental implant process begins with a comprehensive evaluation by your dentist or oral surgeon, which includes X-rays or 3D scans to assess bone density and determine if 3 on 6 implants are the right option for you.⁶ Your doctor will map out the placement of the six implants.⁶

Procedure

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, although general anesthesia may be an option you can discuss with your surgeon.³ Your doctor will place six titanium implants into your jawbone, which act as artificial tooth roots and provide a base for the three bridges.⁶ 

Recovery

As your gums heal, osseointegration occurs, meaning the implants fuse naturally with the jawbone, growing a strong foundation to support the bridges.⁶ Your doctor will give you removable dentures during this time to maintain appearance and function.³

Final fitting

Once your mouth has healed, your doctor will create and attach three custom bridges to the implants for a full arch of natural-looking artificial teeth.⁶ Typically, after wearing your new implants for one to two weeks, you’ll meet with your dentist to make sure your new smile meets your expectations.³

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects of a 3 on 6 dental implant procedure include discomfort and pain around the implant site and swelling and bruising around the mouth and areas of the face. Minor bleeding is also normal after a 3 on 6 surgery. In rare cases, gingival recession can occur, in which the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the implant and making their area sensitive.⁷

Uncommon but more serious side effects include infection around the implant site, in which bacteria enter the tooth socket, causing swelling, pus or pain.⁷ Nerve damage, sinus problems and allergic reactions may occur, or implant failure, in which the implant doesn’t ossify with the jawbone correctly.⁷

Permanent and Secure

With 3 on 6 dental implants, patients can gain greater functionality of their teeth, including better chewing ability. In addition, patients regain their natural smile, enjoy an easier oral maintenance routine when compared to traditional dentures and have a long-term, functional solution for better overall oral health.²

Financing 3 on 6 Dental Implants With the CareCredit Credit Card

Whether you’re getting dental implants or you’re simply paying for a dental exam, the CareCredit credit card can help you pay for costs not covered by insurance.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a dentist or oral surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit. Use the CareCredit credit card, again and again, to pay for your health and wellness wants and needs, and download the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to dental care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for pet care, cosmetic, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Anne-Marie Kennedy is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience covering health and wellness, personal finance and real estate/investing.