Dental Implant Resources & Information
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium posts placed directly into the jawbone. Over time, living bone fuses around the implant, providing unparalleled stability and security for the prosthetic teeth placed on top of the implants. Dental implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. They’re durable and can last a lifetime while allowing a person to eat and speak with confidence.
Jump To:
- Types of dental implants
- Full arch dental implants procedures
- Dentures vs. dental implants
- Dental implant post-procedure care
- Dental implant FAQ
Dental Implant Components
Dental implants have three components:
- The implant. The dental implant is a biocompatible titanium screw that is permanently placed into the jawbone through a surgical procedure.
- The abutment: An abutment connects the implant to an artificial tooth or teeth. Abutments are permanent but can be removed by your oral surgeon.
- The crown. The crown is a prosthetic artificial tooth custom-made to fit the unique curve of your jaw. Crowns are made of porcelain or zirconium, both of which are durable, good-looking, and can last a lifetime.
Types of Dental Implants
There’s a type of dental implant for every need, whether it’s a single tooth implant, multiple tooth replacement, or a full arch dental implant. No matter what type of dental implant a person is receiving, the surgical procedures are similar.
Single Tooth Implant
A single tooth implant is the ideal treatment solution for a patient with one missing or severely damaged tooth. In a single tooth implant procedure, one crown is supported by one titanium post.
Multiple Tooth Implants
In a multiple tooth implant, a patient needs several adjacent teeth replaced, but may have some remaining teeth that are healthy. A multiple tooth implant requires a bridge to be placed on two implants while leaving the healthy teeth in place. In many situations, the full arch dental implant can be a more efficient and economical choice.
Full Mouth Dental Implants (i.e., Full arch, All-on-X, 4-on-1)
Full arch dental implants replace a full upper or lower arch of teeth. Full arch dental restoration uses four implants per arch to support a dental prosthetic that is permanently affixed to the implant’s post. It’s a smart choice for people who have several missing or damaged teeth and want to regain all benefits of having a full set of healthy, natural-looking teeth.
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Full Arch Dental Implants Procedures
Full arch dental implants, full mouth implants, All-on-X, 4-on-1, teeth-in-a-day dental implants all refer to the same surgical procedure. They all involve replacing an entire row of teeth using 4 implants. At America’s first, the full arch procedure is done using two high quality materials: The artificial tooth root implanted into the bones of the jaw is made of titanium, while the final permanent prosthetic tooth or teeth are constructed of zirconia. Zirconia is very strong and results in crowns that are lighter and more durable than those made of other materials. Zirconia is completely bio-inert and has been used in prosthetics for over 50 years.
Pre-procedure appointment
In the pre-procedure appointment, you will receive precise 3D digital CT scans of your jawbone to help your oral surgeon choose the most stable locations for your implants to be placed. These scans also help your implant team make a high-quality set of temporary teeth to wear until your jaw is fully healed. Your pre-procedure scans are also used to help make your permanent set of teeth. Your permanent teeth will be shaded to look natural and healthy and shaped to fit your mouth perfectly.
Surgery
During the surgery, your oral surgeon will make an incision in your gums and jaw tissue. The implant is placed into your jawbone. This process is repeated for each remaining implant. Four dental implants are typically used, but up to six may be placed.
Receive temporary teeth
You will go home that same day with a full set of temporary new teeth that connect securely to the implants. You won’t have to go a day without natural-looking teeth
Receive permanent zirconia teeth
Complete healing of the jawbones takes about 3 months. We don’t place permanent teeth onto the implants on the day of your surgery because your gums need time to heal and your jawbone needs time to fuse with the implants. After your gums and jawbones are healed, you’ll receive your permanent teeth. This ensures that your permanent teeth are a perfect fit for your mouth.
Dentures vs. Dental Implants
Dental implants are superior to dentures in most ways. While dentures are typically less expensive than dental implants, dental implants are better in their fit and function and will never slip or move when you speak or eat.
Dental implants are as comfortable as natural teeth and function just the same. You don’t have to bother with taking out dental implants; unlike dentures, dental implants are securely and permanently attached. Dental implants can last a lifetime, and they’re as strong as natural teeth. Dentures can be fragile and may break.
Some other differences between dentures and dental implants include:
Dentures
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A wearer needs to avoid hard foods
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Must be removed for cleaning
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Wearer will lose bone tissue over time
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Will need to be replaced every 5 to 8 years
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Can cause gum irritation
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Can be fragile and may break when chewing hard foods
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Speech and enunciation may be affected
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Chewing can be uncomfortable
Dental Implants
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A wearer can eat any food they want with no restrictions
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Cleans just like natural teeth
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Prevents bone loss in the jawbones
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Life-long investment
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Comfortable
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Durable and strong, like natural teeth
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Allows normal speech and correct enunciation
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Allows a person to chew without discomfort
Don’t know what type of dental implants is best for you?
Speak to a representative to learn more
What They’re Saying
I went in to [America’s First] due to bad work from another dentist… the previous work needed to be fixed ASAP. Dr. walked me through how he would fix my implants and made me feel much more at ease. It was easy to work with his office to schedule the procedure. I am so happy I found him and his work is great! Definitely smiling big now =)
– Katelyn R.
Patient from Miami, FL
After several months of going to many dental offices for consults, I finally found America’s First Dental Implant Centers, and thank GOD I did… I drove all the way from Naples to Miami for my treatment and it was definitely worth it. I recommend America’s First to anyone that needs dental implants. Thank you to the Doctor and team at America’s First!
– Kenneth O.
Patient from Naples, FL
Big thank you to the Oral Surgeon doctor and staff at America’s First Dental Implant Center in Miami. I had a tooth that broke and needed to be replaced with a dental implant… The surgery was painless and I was asleep the entire time and now I have a brand new tooth. It was really a stress free experience and at a much lower price than other offices. I highly recommend America’s First to anyone that needs dental implants.
– David C.
Miami, FL
Dental Implant Post-Procedure Care
During your recovery from a dental implant procedure, you will need to follow a few easy and helpful guidelines:
What Types of Foods Can I Eat?
Eat soft foods for the first 48 hours after your surgery and keep hydrated with plenty of liquids. After the initial few days, you may start to eat a wider range of food.
Add protein to your diet.
Your body needs a lot of protein for healing after your procedure, so make sure to add protein supplements to your diet. Many supplement brands offer protein powders that can be added to beverages.
Avoid Drinking Straws
Suction of any sort, including drinking straws and smoking cigarettes, will slow or stop the healing process.
Will I Go Home with Medication?
Most people receive oral antibiotics and pain medication after getting implants.
What Are My Oral Hygiene Instructions?
Practicing great oral hygiene is a must to ensure proper healing from implant surgery.
- Avoid disturbing the surgical sites
- Starting the day after surgery, gently rinse your mouth out with saltwater or Peridex.
- Use a soft, manual toothbrush to clean your new teeth.
- Use a Waterpik
What are some common reactions after receiving dental implants?
- Minor bleeding
- Pain at the surgical site
- Bruising of the skin and gums
- Facial swelling
- Swelling of the gums
What Are the Restrictions on Driving and Activities?
Avoid driving during the first 12 to 24 hours after your implant surgery and avoid any strenuous physical activities for 7 days.
When Can I Return to Work?
Depending on the extent of your implant procedures, you may be able to return to work within one to four days.
When Do I Return for Follow-Up?
After your full arch surgery, you’ll return to your oral surgeon’s office within 1-2 weeks. Then about 3 months after this follow-up, you’ll return to your oral surgeon’s office for your permanent teeth.
Is there a lot of pain involved with having dental implant surgery?
No, during the dental implant surgery, you will be under sedation and so you won’t be in any pain. After the surgery, most people report mild pain, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication (e.g., ibuprofen). Stronger medication may be prescribed by your oral surgeon if needed.
Don’t know what type of dental implants is best for you?
Speak to a representative to learn more
Dental Implant Resources FAQ
- 1. What is a dental implant?
- 2. What are all the benefits of dental implants?
- 3. Are dental implants better than dentures?
- 4. Who can get dental implants?
- 5. What happens during the dental implant procedure?
- 6. What materials are used in dental implant procedures?
- 7. What do dental implants cost?
- 8. How long does a dental implant procedure take?
- 9. Who performs dental implant surgeries?
A dental implant is a type of replacement for lost natural teeth that provides the patient with far more benefits than dentures. Dental implants are strong titanium posts surgically placed directly into the jawbone. Connectors called abutments join the implant to permanent artificial teeth, delivering a level of comfort and security that can’t be matched by dentures.
Back To Top- Dental implants look and function just like healthy natural teeth
- Dental implants restore speech and a normal bite.
- Because dental implants are as strong and secure as natural teeth, you can eat anything you want including all your favorite foods.
- Dental implants stop bone loss in the jaw, preventing changes in the shape of a person’s face.
- Dental implants are easy to care for. Daily brushing will keep your implants looking their best.
Dental implants are better than dentures in most ways. While dentures are less expensive than dental implants, dental implants offer superior comfort, stability, and fit. Dental implants feel and work just like natural teeth. Full arch (i.e., All-on-X, 4-on-1) dental implants are easy to care for, permanent, and can last a lifetime.
Back To TopMost people can get dental implants, including those with significant loss of bone tissue in the jaw.
Back To TopYou will be sedated, put to sleep before the procedure begins. Next, your oral surgeon will make incisions in your gums, exposing the jawbone. Small holes are made in the bone, in which small screw-like titanium posts are placed. The gum tissues are put back in place and allowed to heal. Later, artificial teeth made of zirconia are placed onto the implanted posts.
Back To TopCommon types of materials used during dental implant procedures include titanium and zirconia. Titanium is typically used for the posts placed into the jawbone. Zirconia is used to create new artificial teeth that will be permanently fixed on top of the implants.
Back To TopFull arch dental restoration can cost from $25,000 to ~ $40,000 per arch, but our pricing is set at $14,950 per arch, which is at least 40% cheaper than most competitors. We deliver identical if not better results than our competitors. Our pricing is much lower because our oral surgeons are highly trained in full-arch dental implant procedures and are able to utilize their expertise and advanced technology to perform the procedure efficiently.
This price includes all appointments, procedures, anesthesia, fittings, and materials.
Back To TopAn all-on-X full jaw restoration surgery takes up to 1-2 hours, with the complete procedure lasting 3-4 hours. This allows time for the temporary bridge to be made and inserted.
Back To TopOral surgeons perform all-on-X dental implant procedures. They have extensive medical education and an additional 4 + years of hospital-based training in performing complex dental surgeries. They’re also trained on the use of anesthesia.
Back To Top