Dental Implants

Get Your Smile Back For Good

Missing teeth make eating and speaking difficult, and they make you want to hide your smile. Our custom-designed dental implants can replace one or more missing teeth permanently, seamlessly blending in with your smile and making chewing, talking, and smiling easy again. The best part? With proper care, they can last you a lifetime!

Dr. Morales and our friendly team here in Coral Gables use the latest dental technology and years of experience to give you a smile that you can feel proud of again. Call us today at 305-518-1922 and get your smile back for good!

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What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the pinnacle of all tooth replacement solutions. They last the longest and bear the closest resemblance to a real tooth.

A single implant consists of a small titanium post and a crown.

The post acts as the root of your tooth, sitting firmly in your jaw and keeping your new tooth stable.

The crown is the visible part of your new tooth, and it is custom-designed to look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth. We even match the color exactly to your neighboring teeth, so it blends seamlessly into your smile.

Why Implants Are The Ideal Tooth Replacement Solution

They look natural: We make sure that your implants blend in seamlessly with the shape and color of the rest of your smile.
They’re easy to clean: Implants are just like your natural teeth, so you can brush and floss easily.
They’re stable: Implants are fixed, so you don’t have to worry about them shifting or falling out when you’re talking or eating.
They’re versatile: They can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth.
They prevent bone loss: Implants are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates your jaw bone, which stops it from disintegrating.
They’re permanent: Our implants are made from durable material that, with the proper care and maintenance, can last you a lifetime.

The Dental Implants Process

1. The Initial Consultation

Your first consultation will involve talking to Dr. Morales about your smile goals and checking to see if you qualify as a good candidate for dental implants. Once he has determined that dental implants are the best solution for your smile, you’ll be able to choose a date for your placement procedure. We’ll also take digital impressions of your teeth to start designing your new tooth, making sure to match it to the color, shape, and size of your other teeth.

2. Placing Your Implant

The first procedure involves inserting the titanium post carefully into your jaw and helping your gum to grow around it with some sutures.

3. The Healing Period (AKA Osseointegration)

After seven to ten days, your sutures should dissolve. The real healing process happens in your jaw, where your bone starts fusing with the implant post. This process is called osseointegration and generally takes three to six months.

During this time, you will get a temporary crown so you can still smile, eat and talk normally.

4. Placing the Crown

Once you’ve healed fully and your implant post is secure, we will attach a connector (called an abutment) which will connect your crown to your post. Your custom-designed crown can then be attached and stabilized, and you can leave with a natural-looking smile.

Now, all that’s left is for you to take good care of your implants and enjoy your new smile!

We Focus On Precision Every Time

Dr. Morales uses his years of experience and the latest dental technology to give your implant the best chance of success.

Our technology gives us:

More accuracy when taking measurements
More precision when we’re placing your implant
More control during the procedure

All of which minimizes the risks and helps your implants last longer.

More Options For Restoring Your Smile

Single-tooth dental implants might not be the right solution for you. You might have too much bone loss to support just one implant, or you are missing multiple teeth and are looking for a more comprehensive solution, or you might just not qualify as a candidate for implants.

That’s okay! We have other options tailored specifically for you:

If you’re missing multiple teeth: We offer all on 4 dental implants, which can replace a full arch or even all of your teeth
If you’ve lost bone tissue: We offer bone grafting, which can help you restore your bone density and help you get dental implants in the future.
If you don’t qualify as a candidate for implants: We can still help you rebuild your smile with dental crowns and bridges, or custom dentures

Ready To Transform Your Smile?

Whether you’re considering dental implants, snap-on dentures, or have questions about our same-day teeth options, our dentist in Coral Gables is here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let dental concerns hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile today and schedule an appointment or call our dental office today at 305-518-1922!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are ideal for individuals who are in good general and oral health. Suitable candidates should have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant, as well as healthy gums free from periodontal disease. Age is typically not a barrier to dental implant therapy; however, they are not recommended for children and young adolescents whose jawbones are still developing.

Our comprehensive evaluation includes dental X-rays and sometimes a CT scan to assess your bone quality and to plan the implant procedure. Smokers or those with chronic disorders such as diabetes or heart disease may require special consideration and evaluation to determine if dental implants are the right choice for them. We encourage a consultation with our skilled dental team to discuss your specific needs and suitability for dental implants.

How Long Does the Dental Implant Procedure Take?

The timeline for dental implant procedures can vary greatly depending on the individual case and specific needs. Generally, the process involves several stages spread over a few months. Initially, the implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, requiring a healing period that can last from 3 to 6 months. During this time, osseointegration occurs, where the implant fuses with the bone to create a secure base. After the healing phase, an abutment is attached to the implant, which will hold the crown or artificial tooth. Finally, the custom-made crown is attached, completing the process. In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary, extending the overall timeline. Our dentists at University Dental Group will provide a detailed treatment plan with estimated timelines to help you understand each step of the process.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

Our priority at University Dental Group is to ensure our patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the dental implant procedure. Most patients report that the discomfort associated with dental implants is less than they anticipated and is typically described as less intense than a tooth extraction. Local anesthesia is used during the surgery to numb the area, and sedation options are available for patients who may feel anxious. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We provide detailed post-operative care instructions and are always available to address any concerns or questions about pain management following the procedure.

How Do I Care for My Dental Implants?

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, emphasizing the importance of good oral hygiene to ensure their longevity. Regular brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash are essential to keep the implants and surrounding gums healthy. It’s important to avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the implant or the attached crown. Regular dental checkups are crucial, as they allow us to monitor the implants and address any potential issues early. Professional cleanings, typically every six months, help maintain the health of the implant and the surrounding gum tissue. Our Coral Gables dentists at University Dental Group will provide you with personalized care instructions and tips to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth loss and can last many years with proper care and maintenance. The implant itself, which is the titanium post inserted into the jawbone, can last a lifetime if properly cared for. However, the crown or prosthetic tooth attached to the implant may need replacement due to normal wear and tear. On average, these can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, but with diligent care and regular dental visits, they can last much longer. Factors such as oral hygiene, lifestyle choices (like smoking), and general health can impact the longevity of dental implants. At University Dental Group, we use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure the durability and effectiveness of our dental implants.

What are Snap-On Dentures?

Snap-on dentures, also known as implant-supported dentures or overdentures, are a type of removable denture that attaches to dental implants for a more secure fit. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, snap-on dentures snap onto strategically placed implants in the jawbone, providing increased stability and reducing the risk of slipping or discomfort. This solution is especially beneficial for lower dentures, which can be more challenging to keep in place.

Snap-on dentures can be removed for cleaning and sleeping, offering a convenient and comfortable alternative to conventional dentures. They are an excellent option for individuals who have lost multiple teeth but wish to avoid the inconvenience and limitations of traditional dentures.

Can I Get New Teeth in a Day?

The concept of “teeth in a day” refers to a revolutionary dental implant procedure where patients can receive implants and a full set of temporary replacement teeth in one day. This procedure is often called “immediate load” or “same-day implants” and is suitable for certain candidates who meet specific criteria, such as having enough healthy jawbone to anchor the implants securely. During the procedure, dental implants are placed in the jaw and temporary teeth are attached, providing immediate function and aesthetics. These temporary teeth remain in place while the implants integrate with the jawbone, a process that takes several months. After this healing period, the temporary teeth are replaced with permanent ones. It’s important to note that not everyone is a candidate for this procedure, and a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine suitability.

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