Single-tooth implant
When you've lost one tooth, to decay, trauma, or extraction, a single-tooth implant is usually the gold standard. One titanium post is placed in the bone where the root used to be, and after it integrates (typically 3 to 4 months), a custom crown is attached on top.
The result is a tooth that looks, functions, and lasts like a natural tooth, without affecting the teeth on either side. That last part matters: a traditional bridge requires shaping down the adjacent teeth, which weakens them. An implant leaves them alone.
Implant-supported bridge (two implants for three or more teeth)
When several adjacent teeth are missing, placing an implant for each tooth isn't always necessary, or affordable. An implant-supported bridge uses two implants at either end of the gap with a connected bridge of crowns in between.
This is a strong, stable, cost-effective option when three or more adjacent teeth are missing. It restores chewing function fully, preserves the bone under the implants, and is fixed (not removable).
Implant-retained denture (overdenture)
For patients missing all or most teeth in an arch, two to four implants can stabilize a removable denture. The denture snaps onto the implants and stays securely in place during eating and speaking, a massive functional upgrade over traditional dentures, which can slip or click.
You still remove the denture for cleaning, but the implants stop bone loss in the underlying jaw and let the denture distribute chewing forces through them rather than through the gums.
Full-arch fixed (All-on-Four and similar)
The most comprehensive option: four to six implants per arch supporting a fixed, non-removable set of teeth. This is what's commonly called 'All-on-Four' or 'All-on-Six.' Once placed, the prosthetic is screwed to the implants and stays in your mouth permanently, only the dentist removes it.
This option is life-changing for patients who've worn dentures for years. It's a bigger commitment in cost and surgery, but the result is fixed teeth that you brush like natural teeth.
How we help you decide
Number of missing teeth, location, bone volume, biting forces, and budget all factor in. At your consultation, we'll walk you through the options that apply to your case, usually two or three, with a clear comparison of cost, time, and what to expect at each stage. There's no universally right answer; only the right answer for you.
Timing and total appointments by option
How long the full process takes is one of the biggest questions patients have. A rough timeline by treatment type:
Single implant: consultation, placement surgery, 3-4 months healing, abutment + crown (two final visits), about 5 months total. Implant bridge (two implants supporting three teeth): same surgical timeline plus an extra visit for the bridge fitting. All-on-four full arch: longer planning phase, surgery day with immediate provisional teeth, final restoration 4-6 months later. Implant-supported denture: 2-4 implants placed in one visit, healing, denture attachment 3-4 months later. Across all options, the surgical visits are usually 60-90 minutes; the wait between visits is mostly healing time, not appointment time.
Questions about your specific case?
Every patient's mouth is different. The article above covers the general principles, for a personalized recommendation, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sidhu.
