Questions patients actually ask — answered straight.
No jargon, no dodging. Here's what people want to know about implants, costs, comfort, and cosmetic care at The Smile Bar — with links to go deeper on each.
Dental implants
What are dental implants?
The most natural way to replace missing teeth. Typically made of titanium or zirconia, implants replace the root structure of a missing tooth, providing support and stability for replacement teeth. They are the longest-lasting tooth-replacement solution available.
What does "All-on-4" mean?
All-on-4 is a treatment that replaces all missing teeth in one jaw using only four implants. It is especially beneficial for patients who have lost significant bone in the back areas of the mouth, since the angled placement uses the denser bone toward the front.
How long will dental implants last?
Implants can last many years with proper care — many have been in place for more than 40 years. Daily hygiene and regular checkups are what protect the investment.
How do I know if I am a candidate?
Anyone healthy enough for a tooth extraction is likely a suitable candidate. Certain conditions — some chronic diseases, heavy smoking, or alcohol abuse — can complicate treatment. A complete exam and medical-history review is the only honest answer, and the consultation is free.
Do I really get teeth the day of surgery?
With full-arch treatment, yes — a functioning full-arch temporary healing prosthesis. It is made from a different material than your final teeth so adjustments can be dialed in before your final restoration is milled.
Go deeper: how implants work · All-on-4 · bone grafting · free second opinion
Costs & insurance
How much do dental implants cost?
It genuinely depends on your mouth — how many teeth, your bone condition, and what your final teeth are made of. That is why every free consultation at The Smile Bar ends with an exact, personalized price instead of a guess. Beware of any office quoting a number before imaging.
What should a quote include?
Everything the treatment requires: sedation, any extractions, removal of infected tissue, implant placement, and both temporary and final teeth. Many advertised "cheap implant" prices leave pieces out — always compare complete quotes.
Will insurance cover implants?
Generally, dental insurance does not cover the implants themselves, but policies vary and most cover a portion of the restorative procedure. Our team verifies your specific benefits so you know before you commit.
Can I finance treatment?
Yes — financing options with competitive rates are available, and payments can be tailored to your budget. See the full breakdown on our cost and financing page, or bring your questions to a free consultation.
Go deeper: implant cost & financing, explained
Visits & comfort
Does getting dental implants hurt?
Discomfort varies person to person, but most patients say it was much less than they expected. You receive anesthetic during the procedure, Dr. Forbes uses gentle techniques, and pain medication is provided afterward — though many patients never use it.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Sedation options are part of your plan. Some soreness in the days after surgery is normal — discomfort in the chin, cheeks, or under the eyes, minor bruising, and light bleeding — and is typically manageable with recommended pain relievers.
How long does the whole process take?
For full-arch cases, the procedure itself is completed within a 24-hour period, though you may spend up to three days with us in the office. Complete timelines vary by case; your consultation maps yours precisely.
How do I care for my new teeth?
Initially, a prescribed medicated mouth rinse. Once healed, a water flosser cleans around the implants and under the secured bridge, plus regular hygiene visits. Full details live on our post-op instructions page.
Go deeper: post-op instructions · schedule a visit
Cosmetic & facial
What facial treatments does a dental office offer?
The Smile Bar offers Botox, Bio-LIFT natural filler, microneedling, and plasma facials — all non-surgical, all planned by a team with deep expertise in facial anatomy and proportion.
How long does Botox last?
Results typically appear within 3 to 5 days, reach full effect around 10 to 14 days, and generally last 3 to 4 months. Many patients maintain their look with treatments on that schedule.
Can my gums be treated for cosmetic reasons?
Yes. Gum grafting can even out a receded gum line, and laser recontouring can rebalance a "gummy" or uneven smile — health and aesthetics addressed together.
Go deeper: facial treatments · Botox · gum grafting
Still have a question only your mouth can answer?
General answers only go so far — imaging and a conversation with Dr. Arielle Forbes, DMD go the rest of the way. The consultation is free.
Book your free consultation