Single Tooth vs. Full Arch Dental Implants: What’s the Difference?
- Smile Stop Dentures and Implants
- Jul 7
- 4 min read
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants offer a strong, long-lasting, and natural-looking solution. But not all implant treatments are the same. Depending on how many teeth you’ve lost, you may be considering either a single tooth implant or a full arch restoration.
Both options are designed to improve your smile and function, but they serve very different purposes. So how do you know which one is right for you?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key differences between single tooth and full arch dental implants, including how they work, what they cost, and who they’re best suited for.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that’s placed into your jawbone to act like a tooth root. Once it fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a crown, bridge, or denture can be attached to restore the visible part of the tooth or teeth.
Because implants are anchored in the jaw, they feel more secure than traditional dentures and can last many years with proper care.
What Is a Single Tooth Implant?
A single tooth implant is designed to replace one missing tooth. It involves placing one implant post into the jawbone and then attaching a dental crown to it.
Best for:
Patients missing one tooth or a few teeth in different spots
People with healthy surrounding teeth and jawbone
Those who want a solution that doesn’t rely on neighboring teeth
Benefits:
Feels and looks like a natural tooth
Doesn’t affect nearby teeth (unlike a bridge)
Easy to clean and maintain
Preserves jawbone health
What to Expect:
After the implant is placed, your jaw will need time to heal—usually a few months. Once healed, your dentist will attach the crown to the post, and you’re good to go.
What Is a Full Arch Implant?
A full arch implant, also called All-on-4 or implant-supported dentures, replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw using a set of dental implants—usually four to six. A full arch of prosthetic teeth is then permanently attached to those implants.
Best for:
People who are missing most or all of their teeth in one arch
Denture wearers looking for more stability
Patients with enough healthy jawbone to support multiple implants
Benefits:
Restores an entire row of teeth with fewer implants
Looks natural and feels secure—no slipping like traditional dentures
Easier to eat, speak, and smile with confidence
Helps maintain jawbone structure over time
What to Expect:
Your dentist will place several implants strategically in your jaw. After healing, a full arch prosthetic will be attached, creating a complete and functional smile.
Which One Is Right for You?
The choice between a single tooth implant and a full arch implant depends on a few important factors:
1. How Many Teeth Are Missing?
This is the most obvious consideration. One missing tooth can be replaced with a single implant. If you’re missing all or most teeth in a row, a full arch solution is usually better.
2. Jawbone Health
Implants need healthy jawbone to stay in place. If you’ve experienced bone loss, your dentist might recommend bone grafting or suggest full arch implants using special techniques that require less bone.
3. Your Budget
While implants are an investment in your long-term health and smile, full arch solutions typically cost more than single implants. However, they replace many teeth at once and are often more cost-effective per tooth.
4. Your Lifestyle
Do you want a permanent solution that doesn’t come in and out like traditional dentures? Both single and full arch implants offer this advantage. But if you’ve worn dentures before and struggle with loose fits, full arch implants can be life-changing.
Caring for Your Implants
No matter which implant solution you choose, care and maintenance are essential to long-term success:
Brush and floss daily, just like with natural teeth
Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups
Avoid smoking, which can slow healing and increase the risk of failure
Use a water flosser or interdental brushes to clean around implants
With proper care, dental implants can last 15–25 years or more.
The Bottom Line
Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting solutions for missing teeth. Whether you’re replacing a single tooth or an entire arch, implants can restore function, appearance, and confidence.
At Smile Stop Dentures & Implants, we take the time to evaluate your smile, listen to your concerns, and help you find the option that fits your lifestyle and goals. Our team is experienced in both single and full arch implant procedures, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Interested in dental implants?
Contact Smile Stop today to schedule a consultation and find out which solution is best for you.
Call today for a free consultation!
918-446-0128 (Tulsa)
918-331-2221 (Bartlesville)
TULSA OFFICE
Wes Thompson, DDS
​
5676 W Skelly Drive, Suite A Tulsa, OK. 74107 (918) 446-0128
BARTLESVILLE OFFICE
John Lard, DDS
​
1820 SE Washington Blvd Bartlesville, OK 74006