Be surprised at how relatively easy dental implant surgery is

At Gables Exceptional Dentistry, we provide dental implant surgery to replace missing teeth with a long-lasting solution. Even with advances in modern dentistry, many adults lose at least one permanent tooth during their lifetime due to injury, gum disease, or the natural aging process. Dental implants are unique because they replace both the missing tooth root and the visible tooth, unlike bridges and dentures, which replace only the crown portion. During the procedure, a titanium implant is placed beneath the gums and positioned within the jawbone. As healing takes place, the implant bonds with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a secure foundation for your new dental crown. If you are considering dental implants, call (305) 569-9001 to schedule a consultation at our Coral Gables office.

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Video Question:

Sue asks, “Why are more and more patients opting for dental implant surgery?”

Summary:

Interested in learning why so many patients choose dental implants? This procedure replaces both the missing tooth and its root. Watch our video to discover why dental implant surgery continues to be a popular option for restoring smiles.

Dental Implant Surgery: What to Expect From the Actual Procedure

When you arrive for your implant surgery, we will first ensure you are comfortable by administering anesthesia before treatment begins. The length of the procedure depends on how many implants are being placed. A single implant may take about 30 minutes, while replacing several teeth can require several hours. If multiple appointments are necessary, we will explain the treatment timeline in advance.

Post-Operation Care for Dental Implants

Because dental implant surgery is a surgical procedure, some swelling and tenderness are normal during the healing process. Following our aftercare instructions helps reduce irritation and supports proper healing. We generally recommend using ibuprofen to manage discomfort and minimize swelling, along with applying an ice pack or cold compress for about 15 minutes at a time. At Gables Exceptional Dentistry, we usually advise patients to take a couple of days away from work while they recover. Most people begin feeling much better within two to five days, although mild gum tenderness may last a little longer.

Check out what others are saying about our dental implant surgery services on Yelp: Dental Implant Surgery Coral Gables

Dental Implant Recovery FAQ

Here are a few of the questions patients commonly ask us about dental implant surgery.

What can I eat after oral surgery?

A. Soft foods are the best choice while your mouth heals. Foods such as yogurt, smoothies, soup, steamed vegetables, and ice cream are generally comfortable to eat. During your consultation, we can provide a more complete list of recommended foods. It is also important to avoid hard, crunchy, or sharp foods, including steak and tortilla chips, since they can irritate the surgical site.

How long before I am back to normal?

Most patients feel back to normal within about a week after implant surgery. The first few days are typically when discomfort is most noticeable, but each day should become easier. Many patients find that over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen provide adequate relief.

Is there any pain after dental implant surgery?

Before your procedure, we will discuss how to manage discomfort both during and after treatment. Anesthesia keeps you comfortable throughout the surgery. Once you return home, over-the-counter pain medication is often enough to keep soreness under control. Taking your medication according to the recommended schedule can help prevent discomfort from becoming more noticeable and allow you to recover more comfortably.

Will my new tooth be attached right away?

During your consultation, we will explain when your permanent crown can be attached. In most cases, we wait until the implant has completely fused with the jawbone through osseointegration. This healing period usually takes between three and six months and creates the stable foundation needed for long-term success. If you would like to avoid the appearance of a missing tooth while healing, we can often provide a temporary removable denture that stays in place similarly to a retainer. We will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and determine when your permanent crown can be placed.

Can dental implants replace my dentures?

Yes. Many patients choose dental implants as an alternative to removable dentures because implants provide greater stability during everyday activities such as eating and speaking. If you have worn dentures for many years, jawbone resorption may have reduced the amount of available bone needed to support implants. If necessary, we may recommend a bone graft before treatment begins. After examining your mouth and reviewing your X-rays, we will develop a personalized treatment plan.

Dental Implant Surgery: What to Expect From Your Consultation

Your consultation is designed to determine whether dental implants are the right solution for you. We will perform a thorough examination and take X-rays to evaluate the health and density of your jawbone. This appointment is comfortable and non-invasive, giving you the opportunity to learn about your treatment options, ask questions, and make an informed decision. To schedule your consultation, call our Coral Gables dental office at (305) 569-9001.

Questions Answered on This Page

Q. How long will the recovery process after implant surgery take?

Q. Will I be able to eat my favorite foods after receiving dental implants?

Q. How long until they attach the tooth to my dental implant?

Definition of Dental Implant Terminology

Abutment

An abutment is a component that attaches to the dental implant so a professional can place a dental crown to provide patients with an artificial, aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional smile.

Bridge

Multiple replacement teeth that are fixed in place via attachment to dental implants, natural adjacent teeth, or a combination of the two.

Dental Crown

A crown is an artificial tooth, usually consisting of porcelain, which covers the top of the implant to provide people with an aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional tooth.

Dental Implant

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.

Endosteal (endosseous)

Endosteal is a type of dental implant that a professional places in the alveolar and basal bone of the mandible that transcends only one cortical plate.

Eposteal (subperiosteal)

Eposteal is a type of dental implant that conforms to whichever edentulous surface of an alveolar bone is superior.

Implant-Supported Bridge

An implant-supported bridge is a dental bridge that professionals fix in place with the use of dental implants inserted in the jaw to create a sturdy set of artificial teeth.

Osseointegration

Osseointegration is the process in which a titanium dental implant fuses with the surrounding bone over several months after an oral health professional places the implant in the jaw.

Periodontal

Literally “around the tooth”

Resorption

Resorption is the process in which the body absorbs the calcium from the jaw since there are no tooth roots to cause the necessary stimulation and proceeds to use the calcium in other areas.

Transosteal (transosseous)

Transosteal is a type of dental implant that includes threaded posts which penetrate the superior and inferior cortical bone plates of the jaw.

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