One of the most common options for treating an All-On-4® case is a hybrid prosthesis. But all “hybrids” are not created equal. We are a long way from the days of the only option being a cast metal substructure with traditional acrylic and denture teeth.
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One of the most common options for treating an All On 4 dental implant case is a hybrid prosthesis. However, not all “hybrids” are created equal. We are a long way from the days of the only option being a cast metal substructure with traditional acrylic and denture teeth.
To begin, let me define what a hybrid is, as there are various vague interpretations of the term. It appears that the term was coined because this prosthesis combines denture technology with screw-retained implant restorations, resulting in a hybrid denture, also known as a fixed/removable. The objective was to offer patients a non-removable alternative that could still be removed by the clinician for regular cleaning, tightening, and screw replacement.
In 2025, hybrid dentures offer a range of material options such as traditional metal with acrylic or metal-free alternatives like zirconia. These dentures are designed to mimic the appearance and functionality of natural teeth.
At Burbank Dental Lab, you can choose from four categories of implant hybrid restorations for screw-retained full arch “denture” prosthesis. Let me give you a brief overview of each category and compare and contrast them.
This restoration is fabricated using a titanium frame designed to merge with the implant interface. Its retentive design accommodates the adherence of acrylic and denture teeth.
Features & Benefits
Has resiliency that reduces impact forces, preventing them from being transferred to the implant.
Easily repaired should you sustain trauma, which is a great advantage.
It does stain over time, but this can be readily cleaned and polished.
This prosthetic denture has a cured acrylic base. Teeth can be dislodged, but they are easily repaired.
Acrylic is generally cheaper and lighter, but won’t last as long as zirconia.
Acrylic teeth have the longest track record.
May wear and chip, but they can be easily repaired in a few days.
Wears faster than natural teeth, but will not wear opposing natural teeth.
2. SmartComposite Hybrid Prosthesis
A unique approach within the fixed hybrid category of restorations, SmartComposite is a combination of milled CO/CR and Milled Monolithic Composite.
Features & Benefits
Strong, rigid metal bonded to resilient hybrid composite.
Highly polishable, it can be repaired in the mouth.
Less likely to chip compared to acrylic options.
Lightweight compared to Zirconia.
Very durable, but may not be quite as durable as full zirconia.
Kind to opposing teeth; wears at about the same rate as natural teeth.
3. ZIRMAX M Hybrid (Monolithic Zirconia Screw Retained Full Arch Prosthesis)
The ZIRMAX M Hybrid is one of the most esthetic and durable restorations for the edentulous patient seeking an implant-retained solution. ZIRMAX M Hybrid Restorations exhibits a flexural strength of up to 1200 MPa, allowing you to deliver a smile restoration that looks natural and will endure even challenging occlusal loads.
Features & Benefits
This is the option with the most excellent combination of strength and cosmetics.
Most patients find this option to be the closest to the feel of their natural teeth.
It has been around for approximately 12 years.
As far as durability, zirconia is generally considered the most durable option and is less likely to chip.
4. Porcelain Fused to Metal Hybrid Prosthesis
Features & Benefits
Requires the least vertical of any other hybrid option.
This is the most esthetic option.
It is more likely to chip than monolithic zirconia, but has decades of acceptable longevity.
Typically, the most expensive option.
Offers the most versatile treatment solutions.
With these four hybrid treatment options, there is something for virtually every All On 4 case requirement. The implant department at Burbank Dental Lab can help you determine which type of hybrid will work best for your case.
Burbank Dental Lab has three new state-of-the-art Carbon M2 printers. We are very excited about the options that these cutting-edge printers will allow us to offer our dental clients. Here are some of the advantages that these printers will begin to deliver to you and your dental practice.
Our New State-Of-The-Art 3d Printers
Carbon offers a highly dependable 3D manufacturing solution for many dental applications with its breakthrough Digital Light Synthesis™ technology, enabled by a wide range of dental materials.
a new baseline for innovation in fabrication.
Burbank Dental Lab has the next generation of Carbon DLS™. Meet our new Carbon M3 and M3 Max printers. These advanced printers enhance fabrication possibilities using Digital Light Synthesis™ technology, enabling us to provide quality and innovation for our clients.
Meet Our New next generation of carbon DLS™ M3 Max Printers
The M3 printer is the cutting edge of DLS printing with a true 4K light engine. We save time and improve quality with Automated Print Ppreparation which ensures high-quality assurance and results.