Medically Reviewed by Dr. David Lee Hill

Missing teeth can impact your ability to eat and speak with confidence, and can even affect your facial structure. Fortunately, dental implants offer a solution that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth, restoring your smile and protecting your oral health. The number of implants you need depends on your jawbone health and the extent of tooth loss. A consultation with a board-certified oral surgeon, Dr. Hill at Chapel Hill Oral Surgery, will help you determine the ideal option for lasting, natural results.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Over time, it bonds with the jawbone, creating a strong foundation for a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture. Once in place, implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

How Many Dental Implants Will You Need?

The number of implants varies based on your jawbone health, the number of missing teeth, and the best long-term solution. In many cases, a few implants can support multiple teeth.

  • Single Tooth Replacement – One implant replaces one missing tooth.
  • Implant-Supported Bridge – A bridge supported by two or more implants can replace multiple teeth in a row.
  • Full-Arch Restoration (All-on-4® Dental Implants) – A full set of teeth can often be supported by as few as four implants.
  • Zygomatic Implants – An option for patients with severe bone loss who may not qualify for traditional implants.

Since every case is different, a consultation with a board-certified oral surgeon will help determine the right number of implants for you. At Chapel Hill Oral Surgery, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized care that’s Exactly Like Nowhere Else™.

Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters

Losing a tooth affects more than just your smile. Over time, it can lead to:

  • Bone loss – The jawbone in the missing tooth area begins to shrink.
  • Facial structure changes – The jawbone deteriorates, leading to a sunken or aged look.
  • Teeth shifting – Nearby teeth move into the empty space, causing misalignment.
  • Difficulty eating and speaking – Certain foods become harder to chew, and speech may be affected.

How Dental Implants Support Your Oral Health

Dental implants are the preferred method for tooth replacement because they fuse with the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for new teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants can help:

  • Preserve jawbone density and reduce bone loss.
  • Maintain facial structure for a natural look.
  • Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.
  • Restore normal chewing and clear speech for improved function.

Why a Consultation is Important

Your dental implant treatment is customized for you. During a comprehensive consultation, Dr. Hill will create a customized treatment plan by evaluating the following:

  • Your jawbone density.
  • The extent of tooth loss.
  • Your long-term oral health goals.

Learn More About How Many Dental Implants You Need

Every patient’s needs are different, and the right number of dental implants depends on your oral health and goals. A consultation is the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence. At Chapel Hill Oral Surgery, Dr. Hill, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, provides comprehensive dental implant care with a focus on patient safety, comfort, and long-lasting results. Learn more about dental implants and rediscover the joy of eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence.