Dental Implants FAQs

Dental implants are the premier tooth replacement option available today. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a stable root, and this post supports an artificial tooth or multiple teeth. Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth with a bridge, or an entire arch. Because they fuse with the bone, implants help prevent jawbone loss while delivering a look, feel, and function very close to natural teeth.

You’re likely a good candidate if you have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone to support an implant. Even if bone is lacking, many patients can receive implants after a bone graft. Long‑term success also depends on maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Dental implants have a strong success rate — generally around 95% or higher over the first five years. Many factors that affect success are within your control, such as avoiding smoking, alcohol misuse, and following all postoperative instructions. Some health conditions like diabetes may influence healing and outcomes.

There are several implant options used to replace missing teeth:

1. Single Dental Implants – replace one missing tooth.
2. Implant Bridges – replace several missing teeth using implants on either side of the gap.
3. All‑on‑4 Implants – support a full arch of replacement teeth with four implants.
4. Implant‑Supported Dentures – use implants as attachment points to stabilize removable dentures.

If significant bone loss has occurred, you may need a bone graft before receiving implants. This procedure rebuilds the jawbone and usually heals in a few months, allowing for successful implant placement afterward.

All‑on‑4 implants deliver a full, non‑removable arch of stable, functional teeth using four precisely placed implants. This option is ideal for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth, or whose traditional dentures fail to meet their needs.

Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, All‑on‑4 implants are permanently fixed to the jawbone. They provide bite strength similar to natural teeth, won’t slip or shift during eating or speaking, and help preserve bone. Because they don’t cover the palate, they often feel more comfortable and natural than removable dentures.

Implant‑supported dentures use dental implants as secure attachment points to hold dentures in place. Unlike traditional dentures, which can be unstable, implant‑supported versions snap on and off easily yet remain secure during daily activities. In many cases, your existing dentures can be modified to fit implant attachments.