Choosing the right dental implant: Options for every smile in Purley & Croydon

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are considered the gold standard. But with so many different options - from single tooth replacements to restoring an entire arch with full mouth dental implants, and even specialist solutions such as zygomatic implants - it can feel confusing to know which is right for you.

At Foxley Lane Dental in Purley, we provide expert-led, advanced dental implant treatment for every patient - including complex cases. Whether you’re comparing flexible dentures to implants, researching mouth dental implants for the first time, or ready to begin the full process and choose the best solution to replace your lost teeth, here’s your guide to finding the right option for your smile.

Patient at Foxley Lane Dental Purley learning about dental implants for entire mouth, full mouth dental implants, and flexible dentures as alternatives
From flexible dentures to full mouth dental implants, we’ll help you choose the right solution for your smile in Purley.

Types of dental implants explained

Every patient’s needs are unique - which is why there are different kinds of implant treatment available. Here are just some of the main options you may have come across:

Single tooth dental implants

The ideal treatment if you’re missing one tooth anywhere in your mouth. A single implant post is placed securely into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root, and supports a custom-made crown that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth and gums.

Full arch dental implants (full mouth dental implants)

If you have an extensive number of missing teeth, choosing full mouth dental implants can be a transformative, long-term solution. Full arch systems (sometimes called full mouth dental implants, complete mouth dental implants, full jaw implants, or full mouth implants) can restore a full set of teeth with a process that uses just a few implants as anchors.

Patients often search online using terms like full mouth dental implants, dental implants for entire mouth, or whole mouth implants – all different ways of describing the same life-changing procedure. Whatever the name, the benefits are the same: a secure, long-lasting alternative to regular dentures. Choosing full mouth dental implants is especially effective for patients with widespread tooth loss, offering stability and function far beyond what traditional dentures can achieve.

Same day teeth (All-on-4, All-on-5, All-on-6)

This innovative approach allows a complete full set of teeth to be placed on as few as four implants - often in just one day, restoring bite across the full jaw. Variations like All-on-5 and All-on-6 provide additional stability for patients with sufficient bone density.

At Foxley Lane Dental, our experienced clinicians use advanced techniques such as All-on-4, All-on-5, and All-on-6 dental implant treatment. As the names suggest, All-on-4 uses four implants, All-on-5 uses five, and All-on-6 uses six - each tailored to provide the right balance of stability and support. For many patients, these approaches make it possible to achieve a new smile with full mouth dental implants in fewer visits.

Zygomatic implants

If you’ve been told you don’t have enough jawbone for implants, zygomatic implants may be the answer. This specialist treatment uses longer posts that anchor into the cheekbone rather than the jaw, providing support without the need for extensive grafting.

Implant-retained dentures

Unlike traditional dentures, implant retained dentures are secured to a small number of implants. This means no slipping, improved bite strength, and greater comfort - a popular choice for patients wanting more stability than regular dentures can offer.

Other advanced options

Some patients may benefit from additional techniques such as bone grafting, sinus lifts, or even a CT scan to plan the best approach. In certain cases, mini implants can provide support in areas with limited space or bone, and implant-supported bridges are ideal when several teeth in a row are missing, requiring fewer implants than replacing each tooth individually.

At Foxley Lane Dental, our experienced restorative dental clinicians are here to guide you through the best options tailored to your goals.

Implant Dentist Dr Nev Jeyakumar with patient after successful whole mouth dental implants treatment including All-on-6 dental implants in Croydon
Trusted care with Implant Dentist Dr Nev Jeyakumar - supporting patients through every stage of their dental implant journey.

Flexible dentures vs implants

Some patients look into alternative options such as flexible dentures (also called flexi dentures or flexi false teeth). While dentures remain popular because they’re cost-effective, they don’t offer the same strength, stability, or long-term oral health and dental health benefits as implants.

That’s why so many patients in Purley and Croydon ultimately opt for mouth dental implants - they’re as close to natural teeth as modern dentistry can achieve, restoring both function and self esteem.

Benefits of dental implants

Dental implants aren't just about appearance - the treatment offers numerous benefits for both oral health and everyday life:

Longevity

With the right care, implants can last for decades, or even for life, making them one of the most durable treatment options available.

Bone and gum health

Acting as a natural root replacement, implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss. This also helps maintain facial structure and a healthy, natural gum colour.

Comfort and stability

Unlike regular dentures, implants don’t slip or move, meaning you can eat, laugh and smile with complete confidence.

Everyday function

From chewing tough foods to speaking clearly, implants restore the function of your bite.

Protects remaining teeth

Implants don’t rely on neighbouring teeth for support, helping preserve the health of your remaining teeth.

Confident woman enjoying life after complete dental implants, also called complete mouth dental implants or whole mouth implants, at Foxley Lane Dental Purley
Complete dental implants can transform your smile - restoring both function and confidence.

Cost and finance options

One of the most common questions we hear is about cost. Searches like free dental implants for low income UK, NHS grants for implants, or how to get free dental implants UK show how many people are looking for financial assistance to pay for their treatment at the dentist.

While specific government grants or free implants on the NHS (National Health Service) are very rare, at Foxley Lane Dental we do everything possible to make implants accessible. That’s why we offer flexible finance options and payment plans following your initial consultation - helping you enjoy a new smile without financial stress.

How to know which implant is right for you

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right dental implant treatment depends on your oral health, bone density, and personal goals. That’s why an initial consultation with an experienced dentist is essential.

At Foxley Lane Dental in Purley, we’ll assess your needs at our clinic using tools such as a CT scan, and explain whether a single implant, an implant-supported bridge, or a full mouth dental implant solution such as All-on-4 or All-on-6 is best for you. We’ll also explain alternative options like flexible dentures so you can make an informed choice.

Book your free dental implant consultation in Purley

If you’re researching dental implant treatment, interested in full mouth dental implants, or comparing flexible dentures vs implants, we’re here to understand your goals - and help you achieve them.

Book your free consultation appointment with Foxley Lane Dental in Purley today and take the first step towards a new smile and restored confidence.

Patient at Foxley Lane Dental Purley asking about cost, finance and dental implant grants UK including free dental implants for low income UK and NHS options
We offer clear advice on costs, finance options and payment plans for dental implants, making treatment accessible for every patient.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are All-on-6 dental implants?

    All-on-6 implants use six posts to support a full jaw of teeth, offering extra stability compared to All-on-4 or All-on-5. These full mouth implants are ideal for patients with good bone density who want maximum quality and support.

  • Are flexible dentures better than implants?

    While flexible dentures (sometimes called flexi dentures or flexi false teeth) remain popular, many patients opt for implants as they are generally stronger, more stable, and longer-lasting. They also promote better oral health by preventing bone loss. Whatever treatment you’re most interested in, book a free consultation appointment and we can advise the best option for you.

  • What are chrome dentures?

    Chrome dentures (also referred to as a chrome denture or even chromium dentures) are a type of metal-based denture. They can be durable, but unlike implants, they don’t integrate with the jaw or bone and don’t help preserve gums or facial structure.

  • What are same day teeth?

    Same day teeth, also known as Teeth in a Day or All-on-4, allow a full set of teeth to be fitted on the same day your implants are placed. This means you leave the clinic with a working smile straight away, while the implant site heals and integrates with the jawbone.

  • Can I get free dental implants in the UK?

    It’s very rare to get free dental implants for low income UK patients or through the NHS (National Health Service). While you may see references to UK government grants, specific government grants, or other forms of financial assistance in the UK, these are limited and usually only apply in exceptional medical cases. For most patients, the cost of dental implants is a key consideration, which is why we make sure our prices are clear from the outset. At Foxley Lane Dental, we offer flexible finance options and payment plans to spread the cost, helping you manage your treatment cost in a way that suits you.

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I couldn’t have asked for better treatment. Highly recommended. I am a very happy patient!

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