Straight answers about dental implants
Implants are the most permanent way to replace teeth, and they deserve careful thought. These are the questions we hear most — answered plainly.
Dental implant basics
Implants need more planning than other restorations because they become part of you. We’re open about the process and the cost — read these before your consultation and bring any new questions with you.
What exactly is a dental implant?
An implant has three parts: a small titanium post placed in the jawbone that acts as a tooth root, an abutment that connects to it, and the visible restoration — a crown, bridge or full arch. Because it fuses with bone, it feels and functions much like a natural tooth.
Why are implants called the “gold standard” for replacing teeth?
They’re the only replacement that is anchored in bone. That gives you close-to-natural biting force, stops the bone loss that follows tooth loss and doesn’t require grinding down healthy neighbouring teeth the way a traditional bridge does.
How successful are dental implants?
Published long-term studies report success rates above 95% for dental implants. Careful 3D planning, guided surgery, quality implant systems and regular maintenance all push the odds further in your favour.
What’s the difference between All-on-4® and full-arch zirconia?
All-on-4® describes how the arch is anchored — on four strategically placed implants. Zirconia describes what the final teeth are made of. Many patients have both: an All-on-4® foundation with a zirconia bridge on top.
What are full mouth dental implants?
Full mouth dental implants replace an entire arch of missing or failing teeth with a fixed bridge that is screwed onto implants in your jawbone. Unlike a denture, the bridge doesn’t rest on your gums, doesn’t cover the roof of your mouth and isn’t taken out at night — only your dental team can remove it.
What is All-on-4®?
All-on-4® is a technique for anchoring a complete arch of teeth on four implants. The two back implants are tilted to make the most of the bone you have, which is why many patients can skip bone grafting. Some patients need five or six implants for extra support; your 3D scan tells us which is right for you.
Candidacy & cost
For a detailed look at fees, see Cost & Compare and Financing.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most adults who are missing several or all of their teeth are candidates — including many people who have worn dentures for years or were told they lack bone. You need to be healthy enough for a minor oral surgery, and conditions such as diabetes or a smoking habit simply need to be planned for. A consultation with a 3D scan gives you a definite answer.
How much do full mouth dental implants cost?
The fee depends on whether you’re treating one arch or both, the number of implants, extractions or grafting, and whether your final bridge is zirconia or acrylic. After your free consultation you receive a written, all-inclusive fee, and most patients choose a monthly payment plan. See Cost & Compare for typical ranges.
Do you accept insurance?
Most dental plans cover only a small portion of implant treatment, but we’ll gladly file claims for any covered portion on your behalf. Some medical plans contribute when tooth loss is related to a medical condition — our coordinators will check your benefits before your plan is finalized.
Can you help me if I already had implants placed elsewhere?
Yes. We regularly see patients with failing implants or bridges from other offices. A 3D scan shows what can be saved, repaired or converted to a full-arch solution.
Surgery, comfort & recovery
Step-by-step detail lives on What to Expect.
Will I really leave with teeth the same day?
In most full-arch cases, yes. After the implants are placed, we attach a fixed temporary bridge before you go home. If your implants don’t reach the stability needed for immediate teeth, we’ll tell you on the day and fit an interim solution — you will never leave without teeth.
Does the procedure hurt?
Surgery is done under local anesthesia with IV sedation, so you’re comfortable and most patients remember very little. Expect some swelling and soreness for three to five days, which over-the-counter medication usually controls. Most people are back to light activity within a couple of days.
What happens at the free consultation?
You’ll meet a treatment coordinator and the clinical team, have a 3D CBCT scan and an exam, and talk through what you want to be able to do — eat, smile, stop worrying about a denture. Before you leave you’ll see your options, a timeline and a written fee. Plan on about 90 minutes.
How long does the whole process take?
- Consultation to surgery: usually two to four weeks.
- Surgery day: you leave with fixed temporary teeth in most cases.
- Healing: three to six months while the implants fuse with bone.
- Final bridge: two or three short visits to try in and deliver your permanent teeth.
If you need separate bone grafting first, add a few months of healing.
What is surgery day like?
You’ll check in, meet your sedation team and relax while we work. Using a custom surgical guide, we remove failing teeth, clean the sites, place the implants and attach your temporary arch. Most full-arch surgeries take two to four hours per arch. A companion drives you home, and we call you that evening.
What is recovery like?
Plan to rest for two or three days. Swelling peaks around day two and fades within a week. You’ll follow a soft-food diet for the first eight to twelve weeks so the implants can integrate — no chewing hard or crunchy food on the temporary teeth.
Living with your new teeth
Good habits and regular check-ups are what make implants last decades.
How long do dental implants last?
With good home care and professional cleanings, the implants themselves can last decades — often a lifetime. The teeth attached to them experience normal wear; a zirconia bridge typically lasts many years longer than acrylic before it needs attention.
How do I clean implant teeth?
Brush twice a day with a soft brush and use a water flosser once a day to clean under the bridge. We’ll show you exactly how at your final appointment and give you a care kit.
Do I still need dental check-ups?
Yes. Implant teeth can’t get cavities, but the gums around them can become inflamed (peri-implantitis) if plaque builds up. A professional maintenance visit every six months — when we remove and clean the bridge as needed — keeps everything healthy and keeps your warranty active.
What does your warranty cover?
Zirconia full-arch bridges carry a five-year warranty and acrylic bridges a three-year warranty against breakage, provided you keep up with your six-month maintenance visits. Ask your coordinator for the written terms.
Will my speech change?
Most people speak normally within a few days. Fixed teeth don’t cover the palate the way an upper denture does, so many patients find their speech is clearer than before.
Can I sleep with my implant teeth in?
Yes — fixed bridges stay in all the time. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a custom night guard to protect the bridge.
