For most patients, implants offer superior long-term outcomes — they feel like natural teeth, preserve jawbone, and don't require removal or adhesives. However, dentures are a better fit for patients who aren't surgical candidates, need a faster or more affordable solution, or have health conditions that complicate surgery. The right answer depends on your specific situation.

Yes — many patients start with dentures and transition to implants when they're ready. However, the longer you wear traditional dentures, the more bone loss occurs in the jaw. Significant bone loss may require a bone grafting procedure before implants can be placed, which adds time and cost. If you're considering implants eventually, having a conversation with Dr. Nwokorie sooner gives you more options.

A dentist may recommend against implants if you have insufficient jawbone density and aren't a candidate for grafting, uncontrolled chronic conditions like severe diabetes, active gum disease that needs treatment first, or lifestyle factors like heavy smoking that hinder healing. Dr. Nwokorie evaluates all of this with 3D imaging and a health review before making a recommendation.

Yes — age alone is not a disqualifier. As long as you're in good general health and have sufficient jawbone (or are a candidate for grafting), implants can dramatically improve quality of life for older adults. Many of our implant patients are in their 60s, 70s, and beyond. The functional benefits — eating normally, speaking clearly, and preserving facial structure — are especially meaningful for seniors.

The 3-2 rule is a clinical guideline for implant spacing: there should be at least 3mm between two adjacent implants and at least 2mm between an implant and a neighboring natural tooth. This ensures adequate bone and gum tissue health around each implant. Dr. Nwokorie uses 3D CBCT imaging to plan precise implant placement that follows these clinical standards.

Traditional dentures do not prevent bone loss — the jawbone continues to resorb beneath them because there's no root or implant stimulating it. Over time, this changes the shape of the jaw and face, and requires periodic denture adjustments or replacements as the fit changes. Implant-supported dentures address this by placing implants that stimulate the bone at key points.

Implant-supported dentures are a hybrid option: 2 to 4 implants are placed in the jaw, and a custom denture snaps onto them for stability. You get the secure fit and bone-stimulation benefits of implants at a lower cost than a full arch of individual implants. They're especially popular with patients transitioning from traditional dentures. Learn more about our implant-supported options →

Exactly like natural teeth — brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. There's no removal, no adhesive, and no special cleaning routine. Avoiding smoking and keeping up with regular dental visits gives your implants the best chance of lasting a lifetime.

Yes. Dr. Nwokorie is trained in implant surgery and places implants in-house — you don't need a separate referral to an oral surgeon. From the initial 3D scan and treatment plan through the surgical placement and final crown, the entire process happens at our office in Decatur.