Top 10 Most Common Questions About Dental Implants – Answered
Considering dental implants but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for missing teeth, but it’s natural to have questions before starting treatment. From how the procedure works to how much it costs, understanding the details can help you make the right decision. In this article, we answer the Top 10 Most Common Questions About Dental Implants to give you clear, reliable information and peace of mind.
Am I suitable for dental implants?
Dental implants are a great option for many adults, but certain factors affect your eligibility. Generally, you should have good overall health, healthy gums, and enough jawbone to support the implant. Age isn’t a major concern — what matters most is bone quality and healing ability. If you smoke, have uncontrolled diabetes, or certain medical conditions, we’ll need to evaluate you more carefully. A detailed consultation, including X-rays or 3D scans, will help us determine the best solution for you.
I have missing teeth — what should I do?
If you have gaps in your mouth from previously extracted teeth, there are several effective treatment options. Dental implants are often the most natural-looking and long-lasting solution, especially if the bone is healthy and the space is suitable. Dental bridges may also be recommended, particularly if the gap is small and the surrounding teeth are strong enough to support it. The best option depends on the size of the gap, your oral health, and your long-term goals. A personalized consultation will help us decide what’s right for your smile.
Treatment Options for Missing Teeth
| Feature | Dental Implant | Dental Bridge |
| Appearance | Looks and feels like a natural tooth | Natural-looking, but slightly less realistic |
| Bone Health | Helps preserve jawbone | Does not prevent bone loss |
| Longevity | Can last a lifetime with good care | Lasts 10–15 years on average |
| Effect on Other Teeth | No impact on neighboring teeth | Requires grinding down adjacent teeth |
| Gap Size Suitability | Ideal for both small and large gaps | Best for small to medium gaps |
| Healing Time | Requires surgery and healing period | Faster procedure, no surgery |
| Cost | Higher initial cost, long-term value | More affordable upfront |
Should I choose a bridge or a dental implant for my missing teeth?
Both dental implants and bridges are effective solutions for missing teeth, but the best choice depends on your specific situation. Implants are ideal if you have healthy jawbone and want a long-lasting, independent solution that doesn’t affect neighbouring teeth. Bridges can be a good option if the gap is small and the surrounding teeth are strong enough to support the restoration. We also consider factors like your overall oral health, budget, and personal preferences. A professional evaluation will help us recommend the most suitable treatment for your smile and lifestyle.
How long do I need to wait after getting a dental implant?
After the implant is placed, the healing process — called osseointegration — usually takes 3 to 6 months. During this time, the implant fuses with your jawbone to create a strong foundation for the crown. The exact timing depends on your bone quality, general health, and whether additional procedures like bone grafting were needed. In some cases, a temporary tooth can be placed during healing. We’ll guide you through every step to ensure your implant is successful and long-lasting.
How should I care for my teeth after getting an implant or a bridge?
Good oral hygiene is key to keeping your implant or bridge healthy and long-lasting. Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and use fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily — for implants, regular flossing is enough; for bridges, you may need special tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the bridge. Avoid hard or sticky foods, especially during the healing period. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also essential. We’ll give you personalized care tips after your treatment to help you maintain a healthy smile.
Dental Implant Care Tips
- Brush gently twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Use non-abrasive, fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily around the implant (special implant floss can help)
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended
- Avoid smoking — it slows healing and increases implant failure risk
- Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings
Dental Bridge Care Tips
- Brush thoroughly twice a day
- Clean under the bridge using floss threaders or interdental brushes
- Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that may damage the bridge
- Don’t skip your regular dental appointments — early detection of issues is key
Which type of dental implant should I choose?
The best type of implant for you depends on your oral health, bone structure, and personal needs. The most common option is the endosteal implant, which is placed directly into the jawbone and offers strong, long-lasting support. If you have insufficient bone, a subperiosteal implant, placed above the bone but under the gum, might be recommended. In some cases, All-on-4 implants or mini implants can be ideal for full-arch restorations or limited bone situations. During your consultation, we’ll assess your mouth and recommend the safest and most effective option for your smile.
| Implant Type | Description | Best For |
| Endosteal Implants | Most common; placed directly into the jawbone | Patients with healthy bone and gums |
|
Subperiosteal Implants |
Placed under the gum but above the jawbone | Patients with low bone volume who can’t have grafting |
|
All-on-4 Implants |
Full arch restoration using 4 implants per jaw | Patients missing most or all teeth |
|
Mini Implants |
Smaller, less invasive; used for stabilizing dentures or small spaces | Patients with limited bone or smaller teeth |
What does it mean if a dental implant fails?
Implant failure means that the implant does not properly fuse with the jawbone or becomes loose over time. This can happen during the healing phase or even years later. Common causes include poor oral hygiene, smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, infection, or excessive pressure on the implant. Signs of failure may include pain, swelling, mobility, or gum recession around the implant. The good news is that most implants are highly successful — and if a problem does occur, it can often be corrected with prompt care. Regular check-ups help catch any issues early.
How long is the dental implant guaranteed?
At our clinic, the implant screw itself is backed by a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer, giving you long-term peace of mind. The crown placed on top of the implant comes with a 5-year guarantee, provided that you follow the recommended aftercare and attend regular dental check-ups. While dental implants are designed to last many years — often decades — their success also depends on good oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle choices. We’re always here to support you with ongoing care and advice to protect your investment in a confident, lasting smile.
What’s the difference between All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants? Which one is right for me?
Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are advanced full-mouth restoration solutions for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. The main difference lies in the number of implants used:
- All-on-4 uses 4 implants per jaw to support a full set of teeth.
- All-on-6 uses 6 implants, offering more support and stability, especially if you have higher chewing forces or need extra bone anchorage.
All-on-6 may provide better long-term durability, while All-on-4 can be less invasive and more cost-effective. The best choice depends on your bone density, oral health, and personal needs. After a detailed examination, we’ll recommend the most suitable option to restore your smile and comfort with confidence.
Can I get dental implants if I have bone loss?
Yes, dental implants are still a viable option for patients with bone loss, but additional procedures may be necessary to ensure success. If you have insufficient bone to support an implant, a bone grafting procedure can be performed to rebuild the bone before implant placement. In some cases, sinus lifts or ridge augmentation may also be recommended, depending on the location of the bone loss. After the bone heals, the implant can be placed securely.
Normally, the implant procedure is completed in 2 stages: placing the implant and then placing the crown. However, with bone grafting and additional procedures, the process may extend to 3 stages: bone grafting, implant placement, and finally, crown placement. This ensures that the implant has a strong foundation and lasts for many years.
Our team will assess your bone health during your consultation and develop a personalized treatment plan to help restore your smile, even if you’ve experienced bone loss.
For nearly a decade, Dentodream has been delivering outstanding and highly praised dental treatments in the heart of Antalya. Whether you’re seeking a full smile makeover or a simple cosmetic procedure, our experienced and friendly medical team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us — we’re ready to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Contact Dentodream today and take the first step toward your dental and holiday experience in beautiful Antalya.