Full mouth dental implants replace an entire arch of missing or failing teeth using 4-8 strategically placed implants topped with a custom, fixed prosthesis — a permanent alternative to a removable denture. They work even for patients with some existing bone loss, and they help preserve the jawbone going forward in a way dentures can’t. Dr. Robert B. Steadman and our Richmond, VA team evaluate candidacy at a consultation.
If you’re missing most or all of your teeth in an upper or lower arch, full mouth dental implants replace the whole arch at once — not tooth by tooth — with a result that’s fixed in your mouth rather than removable.
How Full Mouth Dental Implants Work
Treatment starts with a consultation where we evaluate your teeth and jaw structure, often using advanced imaging to plan precisely. From there, 4 to 8 implants are surgically positioned to provide optimal support across the arch, followed by placement of a custom dental prosthesis designed to function and look like a full set of natural teeth. If you’re missing just one tooth or a few rather than a full arch, our fixed teeth options guide covers single implants and implant-supported bridges instead.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your first visit focuses on a full evaluation of your remaining teeth, gum health, and jawbone density, along with imaging to plan your specific treatment. From there, we’ll walk you through a personalized timeline for surgery, healing, and your final restoration.
Benefits of Full Mouth Dental Implants
High success rates. Full mouth implants have a well-established track record of long-term success when placed and maintained properly.
Preservation of bone structure. Because implants replace the tooth root, they continue to stimulate the jawbone the way natural teeth do — helping prevent the bone loss that comes with tooth loss or long-term denture wear, even for patients who already have some bone loss.
Cost-effective over time. While the upfront investment is significant, full mouth implants avoid the recurring cost of denture relines, adjustments, and replacements over the years.
Preservation of surrounding teeth. Because implants stand on their own, any remaining healthy teeth aren’t altered or relied on for support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many implants does a full arch actually need? Typically 4 to 8 implants per arch, depending on your bone density, the specific technique used, and your treatment plan.
Will I be without teeth during treatment? Many patients receive a temporary fixed prosthesis to wear during healing, so you’re not without teeth for the full treatment timeline. We’ll go over your specific plan at consultation.
How long does full mouth implant treatment take? Healing and osseointegration typically take a few months, with your final custom prosthesis placed once that healing is confirmed.
Can I get full mouth implants if I’ve already lost bone in my jaw? Often, yes — this procedure is specifically designed to work even with some existing bone loss, and bone grafting can address more significant cases.
How is this different from traditional dentures? Traditional dentures rest on the gums and can shift or require adhesive. Full mouth implants are fixed in place, anchored to the jawbone, and don’t come out.
Get Your New Smile Now
Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Steadman at our Richmond, VA office, or learn more about our dental implants services more broadly.
