Two or more implants to replace several missing teeth, planned together.
What it involves
When more than one tooth is missing, each gap can be restored with its own implant, or one implant can sometimes carry a short bridge. The dentist plans the position of every implant together so that the bite, the neighbouring teeth and the available bone all work as a whole.
Who it suits
Suits adults whose gums are healthy and whose jawbone has enough height and width, or can be built up first. Untreated gum disease, heavy smoking and some medical conditions lower the chance of the implants healing well and need to be discussed first.
How it usually works
A scan or panoramic X-ray comes first, then a written plan. Implants are placed under local anaesthetic, sometimes with sedation. The bone then needs time to fuse with each implant, commonly a few months, before the final crowns or bridge are fitted. Some plans use temporary teeth in the meantime.
Risks and things to consider
Implants can fail to fuse with the bone, become infected, or cause problems with nearby nerves or sinuses. Healing times vary and a second stage is almost always needed. Implants need the same careful cleaning as natural teeth, plus regular check-ups, for as long as you have them.
Questions to ask before you decide
How many implants are proposed, and why that number? Which brand and which crown material are included? What happens if an implant does not integrate? Who will see me at home for the check-ups, and what will they need from the clinic?
General information, not medical advice. A dentist decides what suits you after examining you.