– Is Tooth Replacement Surgery Right For You?

Tooth replacement surgery is a medical option for people who have lost teeth and want to restore chewing, speech, or the look of their smile. This post explains what tooth replacement surgery means, who might be a good candidate, common surgical options, what happens before and after surgery, risks and benefits, and how to choose a provider. Read on to decide if tooth replacement surgery is right for you.

What Is Tooth Replacement Surgery?

Tooth replacement surgery covers procedures that place or prepare for permanent replacements, such as dental implants, bone grafts, and surgical bridges. The main goals are to restore function, preserve jawbone, and improve appearance. This differs from non-surgical options like removable dentures or adhesive bridges, which don’t require cutting bone or placing implants.

Who is a Good Candidate for Tooth Replacement Surgery?

Oral and medical health factors

Good candidates generally have healthy gums and enough jawbone to support an implant or graft. Uncontrolled health issues such as poorly controlled diabetes, active gum disease, or heavy smoking increase risk and can delay or prevent surgery. Your dentist will evaluate oral health and may treat gum disease before moving forward.

Age, lifestyle, and expectations

Age alone is not a barrier; many older adults successfully get implants. Candidates should be willing to follow healing instructions, attend follow-up visits, and maintain oral hygiene. Realistic expectations about timelines, maintenance, and costs help determine if tooth replacement surgery matches your lifestyle and goals.

Common Types of Tooth Replacement Surgery

Dental implants

Implants are titanium posts placed into the jaw to act like tooth roots. After healing, a crown or bridge attaches to the implant. Implants are recommended when you want a stable, long-term replacement that preserves bone.

Bone grafts and sinus lifts

When bone volume is low, a bone graft or sinus lift builds up the jaw so an implant can be placed. These supporting surgeries add time and healing but make implant placement possible and more predictable.

Fixed bridges and surgical implant-supported bridges

A traditional fixed bridge is anchored to adjacent teeth and may not require surgery. Surgical implant-supported bridges use implants as anchors and involve surgery to place the implants before the bridge is attached.

Surgical options for full-arch replacement (All-on-4, etc.)

Full-arch procedures like All-on-4 place several implants to support a full set of replacement teeth. These are often used for people who have lost most or all teeth and want a fixed, stable solution.

What to Expect During and After Tooth Replacement Surgery

Before the procedure

Expect imaging (digital X-rays or CBCT), a treatment plan, and medical screening. Your dentist may recommend health changes like quitting smoking or adjusting medications to lower surgical risks.

The surgical visit

Surgery time varies from under an hour to several hours depending on complexity. Local anesthesia and sedation options are available. The dentist places implants or performs grafting as planned, then gives immediate care instructions.

Recovery and follow-up care

Recovery and follow-up care includes swelling and mild pain for a few days, managed with medication and soft foods. Healing for implants can take several months before final restorations are placed. Regular follow-ups ensure proper integration and long-term success.

Risks, Benefits, and How to Decide

Benefits include improved chewing, esthetics, speech, and bone preservation. Risks include infection, implant failure, and the need for additional procedures. Ask your dentist: What are my alternatives? What are success rates? What technology do you use? How many similar procedures have you done?

Choosing a Provider for Tooth Replacement Surgery

Look for training, experience, and advanced tools like CBCT and intraoral cameras to plan precise surgery. An on-site lab and digital workflows improve outcomes and speed treatment. Elite Dental & Implant Center in Greater San Antonio combines experienced implant doctors with CBCT, intraoral imaging, and an on-site lab to support safe, predictable tooth replacement surgery outcomes.

To get started, gather recent medical history and any dental X-rays for your appointment. Schedule a consultation to review options and a personalized plan. Contact the office to book an evaluation and learn whether tooth replacement surgery is right for you.