Dental Implant FAQ
Pembroke Pines
 Are you considering dental implants in Pembroke Pines? You're not alone. Many patients have questions about this popular tooth replacement option. At Everglades Family Dental, we understand that making informed decisions about your oral health is important. That's why we are here to answer the most frequently asked questions we receive about dental implants.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is not actually a real tooth but rather a titanium post that serves as an artificial tooth root. This post is surgically placed beneath the jawline into your bone, where it fuses with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration. Once healed, this sturdy foundation supports replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Unlike traditional tooth replacement options, dental implants replace the entire structure of your missing tooth. The implant itself is the metal post, while the visible portion that looks like a natural tooth is called a crown or bridge. When you visit our implant dentist in Pembroke Pines, we will explain how these components work together to create a complete tooth replacement system.
The dental implant procedure is performed in stages, allowing adequate healing time between each step. This approach ensures the best possible outcome and longevity for your new teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer numerous advantages over alternative tooth replacement options, making them the preferred choice for many patients in Pembroke Pines:
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Unmatched Durability: Dental implants are designed to last for decades with proper care. Unlike dentures or bridges that may need replacement every five to10 years, implants can be a permanent solution.
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Natural Feel and Function: Because dental implants are anchored in your jawbone just like natural teeth, they feel and function more like your original teeth. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
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Preservation of Bone Structure: When you lose teeth, your jawbone begins to deteriorate in those areas. Dental implants stimulate bone growth, preserving your facial structure and preventing the sunken appearance that often occurs with missing teeth.
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No Special Maintenance: Unlike removable dentures that require special cleaning solutions and overnight soaking, dental implants can be cared for just like your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.
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Protection of Adjacent Teeth: Traditional bridges require grinding down neighboring healthy teeth for support. Dental implants are independent and don't compromise surrounding teeth.
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Improved Oral Health: Gaps from missing teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to gum disease and decay. Dental implants in Pembroke Pines help maintain better overall oral health by eliminating these spaces.
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Enhanced Confidence: Perhaps most importantly, dental implants restore your smile and confidence. Many patients report significant improvements in their quality of life after implant treatment. |
Am I a Candidate?
While dental implants are an excellent solution for most patients, not everyone is an immediate candidate. Several factors determine whether you're suitable for dental implant treatment:
Good Oral Health
Healthy gums are essential for successful implant integration. If you have periodontal disease, this must be treated before implant placement. At our practice in Pembroke Pines, we assess your gum health thoroughly before recommending implants.
Adequate Bone Structure
Dental implants need sufficient jawbone density to support them. During your consultation with our implant dentist in Pembroke Pines, we'll evaluate your bone structure through X-rays or CT scans. If you have thin or low bone density, bone grafting procedures can often address this issue, though this will extend your treatment timeline by several months to allow for healing.
Age Considerations
Dental implants are not recommended for children or teenagers whose jawbones are still developing. Placing implants before bone growth is complete could lead to complications or aesthetic issues as the child continues to grow.
Overall Health Status
Certain medical conditions and medications may affect healing and osseointegration. It's important to discuss your complete medical history with your implant dentist in Pembroke Pines.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Successful long-term outcomes with dental implants require excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Patients must be committed to maintaining their oral health.
If you're not immediately eligible for dental implants, don't be discouraged. Many patients can become candidates after preliminary treatments such as bone grafting, gum disease therapy, or management of other health conditions.
The Dental Implant Process
Understanding the timeline for dental implant treatment helps set realistic expectations. The complete process typically takes between four to eight months, sometimes longer if bone grafting is required.
Initial Consultation
Your implant dentist in Pembroke Pines will evaluate your oral health, take images of your jaw, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Preparatory Procedures
If needed, tooth extractions, bone grafting, or treatment for gum disease may be performed first. Healing from bone grafting can take several months.
Implant Placement
The titanium implant post is surgically placed into your jawbone. This outpatient procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia.
Healing Period
Over the next two to six months, your jawbone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong foundation for your new tooth.
Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant.
Crown Placement
Finally, a custom-made crown that matches your natural teeth is attached to the abutment, completing your dental implant.
Choose Everglades Family Dental
When seeking dental implants in Pembroke Pines, choosing the right provider makes all the difference. At Everglades Family Dental, our experienced team has successfully placed dental implants for countless patients, restoring both function and confidence.
We understand that dental implant treatment is an investment in your oral health and quality of life. That's why we take time to answer all of your questions, explain each step of the process, and ensure you're comfortable with your treatment plan.
Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with advanced technology to plan and place dental implants with precision. We prioritize patient comfort throughout the entire process and offer sedation options for those with dental anxiety.
Don't let missing teeth affect your confidence or oral health any longer. Contact Everglades Family Dental today at (754) 764-0465 to schedule a consultation with our implant dentist in Pembroke Pines. Let us help you discover if dental implants are the right solution for your smile. |
