Replacing All Teeth With Implants: A Comprehensive Guide

Considering replacing all your teeth? This guide explains full mouth dental implants near San Antonio, who should read it, and what to expect. You’ll learn the main options, the treatment steps, risks, costs, and how to find care near San Antonio.

This is for adults with many missing or failing teeth who want a long-term solution. Read on for clear next steps and practical details to help you decide if full mouth dental implants are right for you.

What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants?

Full mouth dental implants replace an entire upper or lower arch — or both — with implant-supported teeth. Common approaches include a full-arch implant-supported prosthesis (a bridge fixed to implants), individual implants with crowns and bridges, and hybrid prostheses that combine a fixed bar with denture-like teeth. Compared with removable dentures, implants give better stability, chewing ability, and a more natural look and feel.

Types Of Full Mouth Dental Implants Near San Antonio

All-On-4 Vs All-On-6

All-on-4 uses four implants to support a full arch. All-on-6 uses six implants for extra support. All-on-6 can offer greater long-term stability, especially when bone quality is good. All-on-4 is often faster, may avoid grafts, and can allow immediate function the same day for many patients. Typical candidates for either approach want a fixed set of teeth and may have some bone loss that can be managed without extensive grafting.

Individual Implant-Retained Crowns And Bridges

Replacing every tooth with separate implants is more involved and usually costs more. It makes sense when a patient has excellent bone volume and wants the most natural, long-term option that mimics individual teeth. For many people, full-arch solutions (All-on-4/All-on-6) offer a better balance of cost, recovery time, and function.

Who Is A Candidate For Full Mouth Dental Implants Near San Antonio

Good candidates generally have:

• Enough jawbone to hold implants or willingness to have grafting

• Healthy gums and controlled oral infection

• Stable medical conditions (well-managed diabetes, no recent cancer therapy that affects bone healing)

• Non-smokers or willingness to stop smoking during healing

Age alone is not a barrier. People who are not ready for implants might consider improved dentures or removable overdentures as alternatives.

The Treatment Process For Full Mouth Dental Implants Near San Antonio

Initial Consult And Planning

Your care begins with a consult, medical history, and imaging such as a CBCT scan. The team maps bone volume, nerve positions, and sinus anatomy to create a digital plan tailored to your goals.

Surgical Steps

Steps can include extractions, bone grafting or sinus lifts if needed, and implant placement. Many practices offer IV sedation to improve comfort during these procedures. The exact approach depends on your plan and bone health.

Provisional Restorations And Final Prosthesis

Some patients receive a provisional (temporary) set of teeth the same day (immediate loading). Others wait for healing (delayed loading) before a final bridge is made. With an on-site lab, turnaround for the final restoration can be faster and more precise.

Risks, Recovery, And Long-Term Care

Short-term side effects include swelling, bruising, and mild-to-moderate pain. Watch for signs of infection, persistent numbness, or loose implants — call your provider if these occur. Long-term care includes daily cleaning under and around the prosthesis, regular dental checkups, and periodic screw-tightening or professional cleanings.

With good care, implant prostheses can last many years. See patient testimonials and before and after results. Some components may need repair or replacement over time.

Cost, Financing, And What Affects Price For Full Mouth Dental Implants San Antonio, TX

Major cost drivers are the number of implants, need for bone grafts or sinus lifts, the lab and material quality, and the clinician’s experience. Full-arch solutions are usually less expensive than replacing every tooth individually. Many offices offer financing plans; dental insurance may cover parts of the process but rarely covers the full cost. Compare quotes by asking for a full treatment plan, itemized costs, and expected follow-up fees.

Why Choose The Smile Institute SA For Full Mouth Dental Implants Near San Antonio

The Smile Institute SA offers experience with All-on-4 and All-on-6 full-arch restorations led by Dr. Luis Galvan. Benefits include an on-site dental laboratory for faster, precise restorations, IV sedation for comfort, bilingual care, and patient-centered planning. Financing is available to help make treatment more accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will it hurt? Discomfort is normal after surgery but is controlled with medication and sedation during the procedure if chosen.

• How long do implants last? With good care, implants can last decades; prosthetic parts may need replacement over time.

• When can I eat? Soft foods first, progressing as your clinician advises. Immediate provisional teeth often allow limited chewing the same day.

• Is travel or destination dentistry an option? Some providers offer destination dentistry, but full-mouth care usually requires multiple visits for planning, surgery, and follow-up.

• Next steps? Schedule a consult with a qualified implant team to get a CBCT evaluation and personalized plan for full mouth dental implants near San Antonio.