Full Mouth Dental Implants: Everything You Need to Know, Including Cost!

By: Dr. Evan Pivetz

Last Updated: November 19, 2025

If you are tired of being on the "dental carousel," going from one failing root canal or crown to the next, this guide is for you. Perhaps you are suffering from advanced gum disease, have many missing or failing teeth, or are wearing an uncomfortable, loose-fitting denture that keeps you from eating the foods you love. You may even be afraid you're going to end up in a denture and are looking for a better, permanent alternative.

Whatever your reason, you deserve to have teeth that are strong, natural-looking, and allow you to eat, chew, and smile with complete confidence. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about full mouth dental implants, from your first question to your final, new smile. We will cover:

What implants are and how they work.
Who is an ideal candidate (and the myths about age and bone loss).
The different types of solutions (like All-on-4 vs. Snap-In Dentures).
Your comfort and sedation options.
The step-by-step procedure from start to finish.
Recovery, aftercare, and what you can eat.
A clear breakdown of the cost and financing options.

Let's begin.

What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants?

Full mouth dental implants are a permanent, modern solution for replacing all the teeth on your upper arch, lower arch, or both. Unlike traditional removable dentures, this solution uses dental implants to securely anchor a complete set of new, permanent teeth, giving you a set of teeth that don't come out.

This procedure is a life-changing option for patients who may be:

Facing widespread tooth loss.
Riding that dental carousel of endless root canals, crowns, and fillings.
Suffering from teeth that are missing or failing due to decay or advanced gum disease.
Afraid they're going to end up in a denture and are looking for a better, permanent alternative.

How Do Full Mouth Dental Implants Work?

The solution doesn't require a separate implant for every missing tooth. Instead, the entire arch of new teeth is supported by four to six implants strategically placed in the jaw.

The system is made of three key components:

The Dental Implants:
These are small, medical-grade titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They function as artificial tooth roots and, over time, fuse with your natural bone to create a strong, stable foundation.
The Abutments:
These are connectors that are attached to the top of the implants. They provide the secure attachment point for your new set of teeth.
The Prosthesis (Your New Teeth):
This is the full-arch bridge of new teeth. It is permanently attached to the abutments. This final set of teeth is crafted from high-quality zirconia, a material that is extremely durable, looks natural, and resists staining.

The ultimate goal is to give you a solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth. It eliminates the common problems of traditional dentures, which can be uncomfortable and must be removed. With a fixed implant solution, you don't have to worry about them coming out while at dinner, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.

Read the full article: What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants? The Perfect Solution to Get Off The Dental Carousel

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Full Mouth Dental Implants?

This is one of the most common questions we hear. An ideal candidate is often someone who feels trapped by their dental problems and is looking for a permanent, lasting solution. Dr. Pivetz notes that candidates generally fall into two main groups:

Patients on the "dental carousel":
You've been going to the dentist for years, constantly getting another root canal, another crown, or more fillings. You may have severe gum disease, or teeth that are missing or failing, and you're afraid you will eventually end up in a denture.
Current denture wearers:
You are already wearing a partial or full denture and are tired of the discomfort. Your dentures may be loose, making it hard to eat and speak confidently. You have to take them out at night and are looking for something that feels like your real teeth.

Photos of 3 Patients Before Full Mouth Dental Implants

Busting Common Myths About Candidacy

Many people incorrectly believe they aren't candidates due to their age or because they've worn dentures for too long. This is almost always not the case.

Myth 1: "I'm too old for this procedure."
Dr. Pivetz has treated patients well into their 90s. The decision is not based on age, but on overall health. As he notes, a 92-year-old patient "wants to enjoy that time that she has with her family." If you are healthy enough for a routine dental procedure, you are likely healthy enough for implants.
Myth 2: "I've worn dentures for 20 years and have no bone left."
This is a major fear for long-time denture wearers, however, as Dr. Pivetz states, "if you're healthy enough to walk into our office, you most likely have enough bone." While this might have been a challenge in the past, with our advanced technology, we can utilize the bone you have with precision to deliver beautiful and long-lasting results.

Photos of The Same 3 Patients After Full Mouth Dental Implants

The only way to know for certain if you are a candidate is to come in for a free consultation. We will take a 3D scan to assess your bone and provide you with a clear, no-obligation path to a new smile.

Types of Full Mouth Dental Implant Solutions

Once you've decided on full mouth implants, the next big choice is how your new teeth will attach. There are two primary options: a fixed, permanent solution (often called "All-on-4") or a removable solution (often called a "snap-in denture" or "overdenture").

While both are an upgrade from traditional dentures, they offer very different experiences. Here’s a breakdown of the two main types:

Fixed Implant Solutions (e.g., "All-on-4"):
This is a full-arch bridge made of a super strong material called zirconia. It is permanently secured to 4-6 implants, does not come out, does not cover the roof of your mouth, and you clean it just like natural teeth.
Removable Implant Solutions (e.g., "Snap-In Dentures"):
This is a denture that "snaps" onto 2-4 implants. It is much more stable than a traditional denture, but it is still a denture. It must be taken out every night for cleaning and typically covers the roof of your mouth.

Feature	All-On-4 / All-On-6	Snap-In Dentures
Permanence	Fixed, permanent solution that does not need to be removed	Must be removed every night
Stability	Fixed and seamless, like natural teeth	More stable than traditional dentures
Chewing Power	Full strength for all your favorite foods	50-60% of natural bite force
Maintenance	Just brush and use a Waterpik like regular teeth	Remove and clean daily
Durability	Decades of use with proper care	May need replacing every few years
Investment	Higher upfront with better long-term value	Lower upfront with ongoing upkeep

Our Professional Recommendation

Dr. Pivetz is very clear on this topic: he does not like snap-in dentures because patients do not like them. While they are more stable than a loose denture, he notes that at the end of the day, it is still a denture.

Removable options come with significant maintenance, as their components often need to be changed out and adjusted. Dr. Pivetz considers the fixed, permanent set of teeth to be the "gold standard" solution. It provides the best long-term value, comfort, and function, allowing you to forget you have them and simply enjoy your new, permanent smile.

Read the full article: Types of Full Mouth Dental Implants Explained

Full Mouth Dental Implants vs. Traditional Dentures

This is the classic decision for patients facing full tooth loss. Traditional dentures are a well-known option, but as Dr. Pivetz notes, they are uncomfortable and you have to take them out at night and put them in a cup by your bed.

The biggest biological difference is bone loss. When your teeth are gone, your jawbone begins to shrink, and dentures accelerate this process. This is why a denture becomes loose over time – because bone loss has caused the fit to change. Dental implants, however, fuse with your jawbone and help prevent bone loss, keeping your face structure strong and full.

Feature	All-On-4® "Teeth in a Day"	Traditional Dentures
Eating	Same chewing power as natural teeth	Significantly reduced chewing power
Speaking	Almost zero loss in speaking ability	Can be difficult due to looseness
Roof of Mouth Covered?	Roof of mouth not covered	Top palate fully covered
Smiling & Laughing	Smile and laugh confidently knowing your teeth are secure	Dentures alone can get loose when laughing
Comfort	Little to no soreness	Can cause sore spots
Gagging	No gagging	Greater chance of gagging
Bone Loss	Implants help reduce bone loss	Bone loss is common
Denture Adhesive?	Denture adhesive never needed	Denture adhesive likely needed

Even a snap-in denture, while more stable, is still a denture. It does not prevent bone loss in the same way and does not provide the 100% biting power and freedom of a fixed, permanent solution.

Sedation Dentistry: Your Comfort Options

One of the biggest fears that keeps people from changing their lives is the procedure itself. Will it be painful? The answer is simple: no. Dr. Pivetz notes that, believe it or not, it is not as painful as you might think. During the entire procedure, you will be completely numbed so you don't feel it at all.

To ensure you are completely calm and comfortable, we offer sedation options. For most full mouth procedures, we recommend IV sedation.

Oral Conscious Sedation: This involves taking a prescribed pill shortly before your procedure. It induces a deep state of relaxation, allowing you to remain awake but significantly less anxious about the treatment.
IV Sedation (Recommended): This is the most common choice. It puts you in a "twilight" state where you are deeply relaxed and calm. Most patients don't have much memory of the procedure after they are done.

Is IV Sedation Safe?

Absolutely. Dr. Pivetz explains that IV sedation is actually safer than most other sedations because you are constantly monitored. He always has a dedicated nurse in the room whose only job is to watch the monitor and make sure the patient is safe.

The Full Mouth Dental Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step

We have streamlined this process into a simple, all-in-one experience. You are not jumping from office to office, because we do everything in one place, from your first scan to your final smile. Here is what your journey looks like:

Senior man smiling at his free dental implant consultation at New Smile Columbus Dental Implant Studio.

Step 1

Your Initial Consultation & 3D Scan

You will meet with Dr. Pivetz to discuss your goals. We will take free 3D x-rays (a CBCT scan) to get a perfect map of your bone structure and create a custom treatment plan.

Step 1

Dr. Evan Pivetz shaking hands with a patient in the dental chair before treatment.

Step 2

The Procedure

You will arrive at our office and get comfortable with IV sedation. Dr. Pivetz will then remove any failing teeth and place the four to six dental implants that will form the foundation for your new smile.

Step 2

New smile sign at New Smile Columbus Dental Implant Studio.

Step 3

Your New Teeth (Same Day!)

This is the most exciting part. Almost every single patient that comes in is getting their teeth the same day or the next day. We use our in-house 3D printer to create a beautiful, fixed set of temporary teeth. You will walk out of our office with a brand new, confident smile.

Step 3

Step 4

The Healing Period

For the next 3-6 months, your implants will be healing and fusing with your bone (a process called osseointegration). You will be wearing your comfortable temporary teeth this entire time.

Step 4

Patient showing off her final smile after full mouth dental implants at New Smile Columbus Dental Implant Studio.

Step 5

Your Final, Permanent Teeth

Once you are fully healed, you will come back to receive your final, permanent set of teeth. This prosthesis is milled from a super strong material called zirconia, which is designed to last for decades.

Step 5

Read the full article: Understanding the Full Mouth Dental Implant Procedure Steps

Full Mouth Dental Implants: Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery is another area where patients often have unnecessary fear. Dr. Pivetz finds that most people come back and are surprised by how little pain they're in. Most patients are perfectly comfortable with over-the-counter pain medication for a day or two.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance

How do you take care of your new teeth? It's simple. You treat them just like you used to treat your normal teeth. This just means regular brushing, flossing (or using a Waterpik, which is highly recommended), and coming in for your regular dental cleanings and check-ups.

What Can You Eat?

During the initial healing period, you will be on a soft-food diet. But once your final, permanent teeth are placed, all restrictions are gone. Because they are made of a super strong material, you can go eat what you want, whenever you want. Dr. Pivetz tells his patients to go to the nicest steakhouse and enjoy. Yes, you can eat apples, popcorn, and beef jerky too!

A Healthier You

This procedure does more than just restore your smile; it restores your health. For patients with gum disease, removing that infection provides an almost immediate change in breath. Your immune system is no longer constantly fighting that infection, so people are healthier and feel like they have more energy.

How Much Do Full Mouth Dental Implants Cost?

We are transparent about cost because it's the most important question for many patients. While the final price varies for every patient, we want to provide clear, upfront information.

According to national statistics, the average cost to replace a full arch of teeth with a fixed, permanent solution is typically between $25,000 and $30,000. At New Smile Columbus, we aim to be 20-30% below the national average. We make this possible through our efficient in-house setup, which cuts out the cost of 2-3 separate doctors.

Download Your Free Pricing Guide

What's Inside?

Testimonials
Common Questions
Our Process
Cost of Implants
FREE Consultation Package

FREE Virtual Consultation

What Factors Influence Your Final Cost?

Your exact investment will depend on several factors, including:

Material Choice:
A final prosthesis made of solid zirconia is stronger and more durable (and a higher investment) than a simpler acrylic model.
Preparatory Procedures:
The cost will depend on how many teeth need to be extracted or if you require any bone grafting.
Number of Implants:
Your custom plan will be based on supporting your new teeth with four, six, or more implants.

Will My Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

This is a common source of confusion. Dr. Pivetz clarifies that Medicaid and Medicare don't cover this procedure. He also notes that most dental insurance maximums will give you $1,000 to $2,000 a year, which is helpful but will not cover the full cost.

Financing: How Most Patients Pay

The vast majority of patients use financing to break the cost of full mouth dental implants into more affordable installments. Dr. Pivetz notes that 8 out of 10 patients across the country are financing this treatment. We work with companies that specialize in financing full mouth dental implants and can help you find a monthly payment plan that fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You have questions, and we have answers. This is a big decision, and we believe in providing all the information you need. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from patients just like you.

How long do full mouth dental implants last?

This is a two-part answer. The titanium implants themselves (the posts in your jaw) can last an entire lifetime. They are designed to fuse with your bone and become a permanent part of your body. The new teeth (the zirconia bridge) are also incredibly durable, often lasting 15 to 25+ years with proper home care and regular professional cleanings.

Will my new teeth look natural or "fake"?

Your new teeth will look completely natural. This is a common fear, but today’s solutions are 100% custom-designed. Dr. Pivetz does not use a one-size-fits-all smile. He works with you to customize the shape, size, and shade of your new teeth to fit your face and look natural. The high-quality zirconia we use is translucent and reflects light just like real tooth enamel.

Will I be without teeth at any point?

Absolutely not. You will never have to walk around without teeth. This is a core part of our “teeth in a day” process. On the day of your procedure, you will walk out of our office with a beautiful, functional, and fixed set of temporary teeth. You will wear these temporaries while your implants heal, so you can smile and eat with confidence from day one.

What are the new teeth (prosthesis) made of?

Your final set of teeth (the prosthesis) is typically made from zirconia. Zirconia is the “gold standard” and what Dr. Pivetz describes as a super strong material. It is a solid, tooth-colored ceramic that is extremely durable, will not stain or chip like acrylic, and looks the most natural.

How do I clean my new fixed implant teeth at home?

You will clean them much like natural teeth. You will still brush twice a day with a soft-bristle brush. However, since the teeth are one solid bridge, you will need to clean underneath it. The best and easiest way to do this is with a Waterpik (water flosser). This tool flushes out any food particles and keeps your gums healthy.

What are the risks of dental implant surgery?

This is one of the safest and most predictable procedures in dentistry, with a success rate typically over 95%. However, any surgery has risks, though they are rare. We minimize all risks by using advanced 3D CBCT scans for precise planning. The main, though uncommon, risk is “implant failure” (when an implant doesn’t fuse to the bone), which can almost always be corrected.

How to Choose the Right Implant Dentist

This is the most important decision in your entire journey. The skill of the doctor and the technology of the office will determine your final result. Here are the key questions you should ask any provider.

Do you do everything in one office?
Many providers require you to jump from office to office for surgery, teeth, and check-ups. This is confusing and expensive. Dr. Pivetz is able to do everything in one place. This streamlines the process and cuts the cost.
What technology do you use?
Look for an office that uses 3D CBCT scanners for precise planning and has an in-house lab. We have a 3D printer that prints the teeth for the patient, allowing for same-day service and complete quality control. Offices that take full mouth dental implants seriously should also be using photogrammetry technology, such as the MicronMapper, to ensure the most precise results.
Can I see your patients' before-and-after photos?
An experienced implant dentist should be proud to show you their work. We have tons of patient photos showing real-life transformations.
Who performs and monitors the sedation?
Your safety is paramount. As Dr. Pivetz notes, you should always have a dedicated nurse whose sole job is to watch the monitor.

Next Steps: Schedule Your FREE Consultation

You've done the research, and now it's time to take the first step. As Dr. Pivetz says, that first step to come in to see us is such a big step for a lot of people. But once they've made that step, they're on the path to a new smile.

Your consultation is 100% free and comes with no obligation. You'll have the opportunity to meet Dr. Pivetz and tell your story in a comfortable, judgement-free environment. We're also going to take free x-rays for you and go over all of your options.

Stop waiting and find out what's possible. Change your life with full mouth dental implants. Book your completely FREE consultation below today and get a clear plan to restore your health and your smile!

Full Mouth Dental Implants: Everything You Need to Know, Including Cost!

Table of Contents