If you’re missing most of your teeth or you’re tired of dentures, you may have heard about 3 on 6™ and wondered how it works. So, what are 3 on 6 dental implants? They replace a full arch of teeth with three separate bridges, each anchored by two implants, for a total of six implants per arch.
The result is a fixed set of teeth you don’t take out at night, designed to look and feel more like natural teeth than a denture. At Signature Smile Arts, Dr. Alex Shore offers 3 on 6™ dental implants to patients in Homewood, IL who are ready to stop worrying about their smile.
What Are 3 on 6 Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Picture your upper or lower teeth divided into three sections: the front, the left back, and the right back.
Each section gets its own bridge of teeth, held in place by two implants. Three bridges, six implants. That’s where the name comes from.
The procedure was developed in Utah, and Smile Systems was founded in 2019 as its official training and support platform, according to Implant Practice US.
Here’s what makes up a 3 on 6™ arch:
- Six implants, small titanium posts placed in the jawbone
- Three custom bridges that attach to the implants
- Teeth that sit right at your gumline, with no thick layer of pink acrylic
- A fixed smile you brush and clean in place
How Is 3 on 6™ Different From Other Full-Arch Options?
Many full-arch treatments, including All-on-4® implants, attach one continuous bridge to the implants. 3 on 6™ splits that bridge into three pieces. Here’s why that can matter.
Three Bridges Instead of One Piece
Because each section is separate, the design allows one bridge to be repaired without replacing the whole arch.
A More Natural Look at the Gumline
The bridges are designed to rest against your own gums instead of a bulky false-gum layer. Many patients find this feels less bulky when they talk and eat.
Cleaning That Feels More Familiar
The spaces between the three bridges make it easier to clean around each section. It’s closer to caring for natural teeth, and our team will show you exactly how.
Every option has its place. Some patients are a better fit for a one-piece arch, especially when there’s less bone to work with. That’s why we offer several full arch implant treatments and help you compare them side by side.
What Does the 3 on 6™ Process Look Like at Our Homewood Office?
Our full-arch process follows three main steps.
Step 1: Consultation
We review your health history, take a 3D Cone Beam (CBCT) scan, and capture your teeth with our 3Shape TRIOS® digital scanner. No messy impressions needed. We’ll also talk through your options and financing.
Step 2: Smile Design Visit
You’ll see a preview of your new smile before treatment day, so you can weigh in on how your teeth will look.
Step 3: Procedure Date
Dr. Shore handles any needed extractions, treats infection, and places your implants. 3 on 6™ patients leave the same day with teeth on their implants.
Feeling nervous? Sedation options include nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. IV sedation is provided right in our office by an outside anesthesiologist.
Who Is a Good Fit for 3 on 6™?
If you’re missing teeth, you’re far from alone. The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that more than 36 million Americans don’t have any teeth, as reported by the UAB School of Dentistry.
3 on 6™ may be worth exploring if you:
- Are missing most or all of your upper or lower teeth
- Have teeth failing from decay, gum disease, or breakage
- Are tired of loose dentures or denture adhesive
- Want fixed teeth that look natural at the gumline
- Are healthy enough for oral surgery
Bone levels, gum health, and medical history all play a role. Every smile is different, so Dr. Shore will give you specific recommendations for your case after reviewing your 3D scans.
Why Do Homewood Patients Choose Dr. Shore for 3 on 6™?
Dr. Shore was the first 3 on 6™ authorized provider in Illinois, trained and certified through Smile Systems Institute. He also holds Fellowship and Mastership certification from the International Dental Implant Association.
He places both the implants and your new teeth here in our office, so you work with the same doctor from your first visit to your new smile.
Patients come to our Homewood office from Flossmoor, Olympia Fields, and across the south suburbs for 3 on 6™ treatment in Homewood. You can see real results in our 3 on 6™ smile gallery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my 3 on 6™ teeth out?
No. Your bridges are attached to your implants, so they stay in place when you eat, talk, and sleep. If a bridge ever needs repair, your dentist can remove it in the office.
Can I get 3 on 6™ on both my upper and lower teeth?
Yes. Each arch uses its own six implants and three bridges. You can restore the upper arch, the lower arch, or both, and Dr. Shore will help you decide what makes sense for your smile.
Does 3 on 6™ surgery hurt?
Your mouth is numbed during treatment, and sedation is available if you’d like to feel more relaxed. Some soreness afterward is normal, and our team will give you clear aftercare instructions. Dr. Shore will walk you through what to expect for your specific case.
Does dental insurance cover 3 on 6™?
Coverage depends on your plan, so call our office at 708-799-5353 and our team will help you understand your benefits. We also offer financing through CareCredit®, Proceed Finance, Sunbit, AcceptCare, and Cherry, plus a flexible in-office payment plan.
Is 3 on 6™ Right for You? Schedule a Consultation in Homewood
If you’re ready to stop hiding your smile, a consultation is the best next step. We’ll take your 3D scans, talk through your goals, and show you whether the 3 on 6™ full arch option is a good fit.
Contact Signature Smile Arts in Homewood by calling 708-799-5353 today, or book your consultation online.
