Missing a tooth — or several — can affect far more than your smile. It changes the way you eat, the way you speak, and even the way you feel about yourself. Dental implants have transformed the lives of millions of patients worldwide, and for good reason: they are the only tooth replacement solution that truly replicates the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. But not all implant providers are created equal. In this guide, Dr. Sharon Zachariah — ICOI Fellow and implant-trained dentist at The House of Dentistry in Wilton Manors — walks you through everything you need to know.
Who Is Dr. Zachariah — and Why Does Her Training Matter?
When it comes to dental implants, the credentials and experience of your provider matter enormously. Implant dentistry is one of the most technically demanding disciplines in all of dentistry — requiring a deep understanding of bone biology, surgical technique, restorative precision, and long-term case management.
Dr. Sharon Zachariah, DMD
Dr. Zachariah is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) and completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at the Orlando VA Medical Center — one of the most rigorous and respected post-doctoral training programs in the country. This combination of elite credentials and real-world surgical experience sets her apart as one of South Florida’s most qualified implant providers.
AEGD — Orlando VA Medical Center
DMD — UF College of Dentistry
ADA Member
FDA Member
The ICOI Fellowship is awarded to dentists who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and clinical proficiency in oral implantology — fewer than 1% of dentists hold this designation. Combined with her AEGD residency at the Orlando VA Medical Center, where she treated veterans with complex full-mouth and surgical cases in a high-volume, high-stakes clinical environment, Dr. Zachariah brings a level of precision and experience that is truly exceptional.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Once the post integrates with the bone — a process called osseointegration — a custom crown is attached on top, creating a replacement tooth that is virtually indistinguishable from a natural one.
A complete implant has three components:
- The implant post — a titanium screw placed into the jawbone that fuses with the bone over time
- The abutment — a connector piece that links the post to the visible crown
- The crown — a custom-made porcelain or ceramic tooth matched to your natural teeth
Unlike dentures that can slip or bridges that require altering adjacent teeth, implants are completely self-supporting and permanent. They are widely considered the gold standard in tooth replacement.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults who are missing one or more teeth are good candidates for dental implants. Dr. Zachariah evaluates the following factors during your consultation:
✅ You’re likely a good candidate if you have:
Sufficient jawbone density · Healthy gums free of active disease · Good overall health · A commitment to oral hygiene · One or more missing or failing teeth · A desire for a permanent, long-lasting solution
⚠️ You may need additional steps first if you have:
Significant bone loss (bone grafting may be required) · Active gum disease (must be treated before implant placement) · Uncontrolled diabetes or certain medical conditions · Heavy tobacco use · Insufficient bone volume at the implant site
The only true way to determine candidacy is an in-person consultation with Dr. Zachariah. She uses advanced imaging and clinical evaluation to give you a complete, honest picture — with no pressure and no surprises.
The Dental Implant Process at The House of Dentistry
Here’s exactly what to expect when you choose The House of Dentistry for your implant treatment:
Step 1 — Free Consultation: Dr. Zachariah performs a comprehensive exam, reviews your X-rays or 3D cone beam images, and evaluates your bone and gum health. You leave with a complete treatment plan and transparent cost breakdown.
Step 2 — Preparatory Treatment (if needed): Some patients require bone grafting or gum disease treatment before implant placement. Dr. Zachariah’s advanced training allows her to handle these in-house — no extra referrals.
Step 3 — Implant Placement: The titanium post is placed under local anesthesia. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the procedure is and how manageable the recovery feels.
Step 4 — Osseointegration: Over 3–6 months, the implant fuses with your jawbone. Most patients experience no disruption to their daily life during this period.
Step 5 — Abutment Placement: Once healing is confirmed, the connector piece is attached in a simple, comfortable appointment.
Step 6 — Crown Placement: Your custom-designed crown is placed and adjusted for perfect fit. You leave with a complete, beautiful, permanent tooth.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures vs. Bridges — An Honest Comparison
| Feature | Implants | Bridges | Dentures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Looks natural | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Mostly |
| Feels like real tooth | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Close | ❌ No |
| Preserves jawbone | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Alters other teeth | ✅ No | ❌ Yes | ✅ No |
| Removable | ✅ No (permanent) | ✅ No (permanent) | ⚠️ Yes |
| Lifespan | Lifetime | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Medium | Lower |
While dental implants carry a higher upfront investment than alternatives, they are typically the most cost-effective long-term solution — because they last a lifetime with proper care, eliminating the replacement and maintenance costs associated with dentures and bridges.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Wilton Manors?
A single dental implant at The House of Dentistry typically ranges from $3,000–$5,000, including the post, abutment, and custom crown. The exact cost depends on your bone density, need for preparatory procedures, and the crown material selected.
We offer flexible financing to make implants accessible for every patient:
- Cherry financing — simple monthly payments with quick in-office approval
- CareCredit — healthcare credit with promotional interest-free periods
- Flexible payment plans — ask our team about customized options
How to Care for Dental Implants
Implant care is beautifully simple. No soaking trays. No adhesives. No special routines. Just:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily using implant-safe floss or a water flosser
- Visit Dr. Zachariah every 6 months for professional cleanings and implant checks
- Avoid chewing extremely hard items (ice, hard candy) that can damage the crown
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Avoid or quit smoking — tobacco significantly increases implant failure risk
With proper care, dental implants can last 20, 30, or even 40+ years — making them one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health and quality of life.
Why Choose The House of Dentistry for Your Dental Implants?
There are many dental offices in South Florida. Here’s why patients from Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, and beyond choose Dr. Zachariah for their implant care:
- 🏅 ICOI Fellowship — held by fewer than 1% of dentists worldwide
- 🎖️ AEGD residency at the Orlando VA Medical Center — intensive surgical training in complex cases
- ⭐ 900+ five-star Google reviews — consistent 4.9-star rating
- 💙 Inclusive, welcoming practice — proudly serving all patients in the heart of Wilton Manors
- 📅 Open Monday through Saturday — flexible scheduling for busy patients
- 💳 Cherry & CareCredit financing — affordable monthly payment options
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Book a free implant consultation with Dr. Zachariah. We’ll evaluate your candidacy, answer every question, and give you a clear, honest treatment plan — with no pressure and no surprises.
👉 Want the full visual guide? Read our complete Free Dental Implant Guide →
💡 Remember: A great dental visit is a two-way conversation. At The House of Dentistry, we want you to feel heard, respected, and informed every step of the way.
📍 Visit us at:
1201 NE 26th Street, Suite #107
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
📞 Call us at (954) 870-6970
🌐 thehouseofdentistry.com
Your smile deserves thoughtful care — and we’re here to provide it. 💙
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