Dental Implants for Single vs. Multiple Missing Teeth

Dental Implants for Single vs. Multiple Missing Teeth

8/12/2025

Tooth loss can affect more than just your smile — many patients in Bexleyheath share that they notice changes in how they eat, speak, and feel about themselves. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, dental implants offer a stable, long-term solution that can help restore comfort and confidence.

If you’re exploring Dental Implants in Bexleyheath, this guide — written with support from your local dental team — explains the difference between replacing a single tooth and several teeth, using simple, everyday language.

Dental Implants Explained in Everyday Language

A dental implant is essentially a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once healed, it supports a crown, bridge, or denture — providing strong, stable replacement teeth that feel close to natural.

Dr Ameeka Patel at 2 Green Dental explains, “Many patients are surprised by how comfortable implants feel once they’ve healed. The goal is always to restore function and confidence without overcomplicating things.”

Whether you need to replace one tooth or multiple teeth, implants can be tailored to your mouth, your lifestyle, and your oral health needs.

Single Tooth Implants: A Straightforward Solution

If you’re missing just one tooth, a single dental implant is often the simplest and most effective option.

Who is it for?

• Patients who have lost a tooth due to decay, injury, or gum disease
• Those who want to protect their remaining teeth (an implant avoids drilling into neighbouring teeth)
• Anyone looking for a natural-looking, fixed replacement

Dr Patel adds, “Patients often say they forget which tooth is the implant because it blends in so well and feels very familiar in day-to-day life.”

Benefits of a Single Implant

• Looks and feels like your natural tooth
• Helps maintain your jawbone strength
• Easy to clean and care for
• Doesn’t affect the surrounding teeth

Implants for Multiple Missing Teeth: Bridges & Implant-Supported Dentures

When more than one tooth is missing, you may not need an individual implant for every gap. Instead, several implants placed in specific positions can support a bridge or a full/partial denture.

Who is it for?

• Patients missing several teeth in a row
• Those who struggle with loose or uncomfortable traditional dentures
• People wanting a stable, long-term solution

Benefits of Implant-Supported Options

• Fewer implants needed than replacing teeth individually
• Feels stable and secure — no slipping or clicking
• Helps maintain the overall shape of your face
• Allows confident eating and speaking

One of our clinicians shares, “When multiple teeth are missing, implants can make a huge difference to comfort. Patients often say they can finally enjoy meals again without worrying about movement.”

Key Differences Between Single and Multiple Tooth Implants

1. Number of Implants Required:
   Single tooth: one post with one crown
   Multiple teeth: two or more posts supporting a bridge or denture
2. Treatment Time: Both require healing time, but larger restorations may involve a slightly more detailed planning process.
3. Cost: Replacing several teeth with a bridge supported by implants is usually more cost-effective than placing multiple individual implants.
4. Function & Feel: Both options provide strong, natural-feeling replacement teeth — the main difference is the number of teeth replaced at once.

Aftercare and Maintenance Tips

Caring for dental implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth. A few simple habits make all the difference:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Clean around the implants with interdental brushes
• Attend regular check-ups and hygiene appointments
• Avoid smoking to support long-term implant health
• Let your dentist know if your bite feels different

Common Questions Patients Ask

Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients describe the procedure as more comfortable than expected. Numbing is used, and healing discomfort is usually mild.

How long do implants last?
With good care, they can last many years. Regular check-ups help maintain their condition.

Can anyone in Bexleyheath get dental implants?
Most adults are suitable candidates, but your dentist will check bone health, gum condition, and general well-being to ensure a safe treatment.

What if I feel nervous about the procedure?
Let your dental team know — there are gentle approaches and supportive methods to help you feel calm throughout.