Considering Dental Implants? Here's What You Should Know

Missing a tooth or two? Dental implants have revolutionized tooth replacement by offering a permanent solution that both looks and acts like natural teeth. Approximately three million Americans already have dental implants, and this number is increasing by 500,000 annually. While implants have become a go-to option for restoring smiles and confidence, making an informed decision requires understanding how they work, what the procedure involves, and whether they're right for your specific situation. 

Continue reading to learn everything you need to know before taking the next step toward a complete smile with an expert cosmetic dentist who can provide the best dental implants in Miami Beach.

What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as replacement tooth roots for missing teeth. These metal anchors serve as a strong foundation for attaching replacement teeth. What makes implants special is how they become part of your body, through a remarkable process called osseointegration, where the titanium actually fuses with your jawbone over several months. This secure foundation creates a stable base that won't slip or move, unlike traditional dentures. This means that dental implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Not everyone immediately qualifies for dental implants, but most people can become good candidates with some preparatory treatments: 

• Ideal candidates have healthy gums free from periodontal disease and enough jawbone density to securely anchor the titanium posts. Treatment for gum disease or bone grafts can help solve these issues. 
• Your overall health matters too. Certain conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes or habits like heavy smoking, can significantly slow healing and compromise implant success. Quitting smoking and lowering your A1C can help prepare you for dental implant surgery. 

What Is the Procedure Like for Getting Implants?

Getting dental implants involves a series of steps that span several months: 

• First, your dentist conducts a thorough dental exam, taking dental X-rays and impressions of your mouth. 
• During the second visit, your dentist will surgically place the titanium implant post into your jawbone under local anesthesia. This is followed by a healing period of three to six months, during which the implant fuses with your bone. During this time, you’ll have temporary dental crowns that will keep your smile intact and functional. 
• Once healing is complete, your dentist attaches the permanent abutment to the implant and then places your custom-made, permanent crown. 

Despite sounding intensive, most patients are surprised by how manageable the discomfort is, typically requiring only over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen for a few days after surgery.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

While costs vary based on factors such as location, the number of implants needed, and whether additional procedures like bone grafts are required, they typically cost more than less permanent restorative dentistry options like dental bridges or dentures.

Unfortunately, many dental insurance plans classify implants as cosmetic procedures and don't fully cover them. However, some insurers may partially reimburse related components, such as the crown that attaches to the implant or necessary tooth extractions. The good news? Most dental practices offer flexible payment plans that spread costs over time. Many also work with third-party financing companies, such as CareCredit or LendingClub, which provide special healthcare financing options with manageable monthly payments, making this valuable treatment more accessible.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants stand out as one of dentistry's most durable solutions, typically lasting 20 years or more. In fact, many patients enjoy their implants for the rest of their lives. Unlike traditional dentures that generally need replacement every five to seven years, the titanium posts of implants become permanently integrated with your jawbone. While the crown attached to the implant might need replacement after 10 to 15 years with normal wear, the implant itself usually remains intact. 

The key to maximizing implant lifespan is diligent oral care: 

• Brushing twice daily
• Flossing around the implant
• Maintaining regular dental checkups
• Avoid biting down on hard items such as hard candy or ice 

With proper maintenance, your investment in dental implants can provide decades of comfortable chewing and confident smiling.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer several significant advantages when compared to dentures or dental crowns, including: 

• Looking and functioning just like natural teeth
• Providing a permanent solution that lets you eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence
• Not slipping or clicking
• Not requiring any grinding down of healthy adjacent teeth for support
• Preventing the bone loss that typically occurs after tooth extraction

However, implants aren't without drawbacks: 

• The upfront cost is higher than traditional tooth replacement options
• The process requires minor surgery along with patience during the healing period before your final tooth is attached 
• Some patients also need preliminary procedures like bone grafting

Where to Find the Best Dental Implants in Miami Beach  

Getting dental implants is a big decision, and we’re here to make it feel like the right one. At Miami Beach Smiles, we combine advanced technology with a deeply personal approach to care, ensuring that your treatment is as precise and comfortable as possible. 

Dr. Gaertner and his expert team bring both technical excellence and an artist’s eye to every case, drawing from years of experience, global training, and a lifelong passion for dentistry. We treat our patients like family, taking the time to understand your goals and walk you through every step with clarity and compassion. 

Whether you’re local or visiting from abroad, our multilingual team and boutique office environment create a seamless, stress-free experience for achieving the confident smile you deserve.

Ready to make the smile of your dreams a reality with the best dental implant dentist in Miami Beach?