Everything you Need to Know About Dental Implants

Dental Implants: What to Know Before You Commit

If you've lost a tooth, dental implants may be one of your best options for restoring your smile. These replacements feel and function much like your natural teeth, but before you move forward, there are a few important questions worth asking.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once placed in the jawbone, your body begins a healing process where the bone fuses with the implant - a process called osseointegration. This typically takes anywhere from two to six months and forms a stable base for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Fun fact: early attempts at dental implants go back centuries, with some evidence suggesting ancient civilizations tried using shells. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way since then.

What Does the Implant Process Involve?

It starts with a full evaluation: your medical and dental history, an exam of your entire mouth, and detailed imaging like X-rays. From there, a custom treatment plan is developed to fit your needs.

Once the plan is finalized, the implant is surgically placed under local anesthesia. Healing time varies depending on the bone’s condition and the type of implant used. After healing, the implant is ready to support your restoration, whether that’s a single tooth or something more extensive.

How Many Implants Will I Need?

In general, one implant per missing tooth is the goal. But other factors come into play, including the amount and quality of bone, your overall oral anatomy, and yes, your budget.

Here’s why it matters: underplacing implants can lead to failure. It's better to modify the type of restoration or wait until the right number of implants can be placed, rather than rushing into treatment that may not hold up.

Who Should You See for Dental Implants?

Implant dentistry has two parts: the surgical placement and the final restoration. Depending on the case, this might involve an oral surgeon or periodontist for surgery and a general dentist or prosthodontist for the restoration.

In some cases, a single provider trained in both phases may handle everything. Either way, choose a provider in Miami with real experience and a solid understanding of the entire process. That knowledge makes a big difference in how your smile turns out.

Are There Different Types of Implants?

Yes, and your dentist will help determine which type is best based on your jawbone and specific goals. The most common option today is the endosteal implant, it’s placed directly into the jawbone and acts like a manmade tooth root. Subperiosteal implants, which rest on top of the jaw, are less common but still viable in certain situations.

Being informed allows you to participate more fully in your treatment. The more you know, the better your long-term outcome.

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, implants can help restore your confidence and function. Let’s talk through your options in a way that feels manageable. Schedule your consultation at our Miami office today, and get the answers you need.