The Complete Guide to
Dental Implants
Everything you need to know about dental implants — from candidacy and process to cost and recovery.
📅 Book a Free Implant Consultation
📞 (954) 870-6970
What Exactly Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the bone — a process called osseointegration — a custom-made crown is attached on top, creating a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions exactly like a natural one.
Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants don’t slip, don’t require adhesive, and don’t rely on surrounding teeth for support. They are the closest thing modern dentistry has to a natural tooth — and with proper care, they can last a lifetime.
🔩 The Implant Post
A small titanium screw placed into the jawbone. Titanium is biocompatible — meaning the bone grows around it and bonds with it naturally, creating a stable, permanent anchor.
🔗 The Abutment
A connector piece attached to the top of the implant post. It serves as the link between the implant and the final crown restoration that is visible above the gumline.
👑 The Crown
The visible part of the implant — a custom-made porcelain or ceramic tooth designed to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth perfectly.
⏱️ The Timeline
Most implant cases take 3–6 months from placement to final crown. The majority of that time is the osseointegration healing period — the implant doing its work quietly below the surface.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults who are missing one or more teeth are good candidates for dental implants. However, there are several factors that are evaluated during your consultation to determine if implants are right for you:
✅ Good Candidates
Adults with one or more missing teeth · Sufficient jawbone density · Healthy gums · Non-smokers or willing to quit · Patients with controlled chronic conditions · Those seeking a permanent solution
⚠️ May Need Additional Steps
Significant bone loss (may need bone grafting first) · Active gum disease (must be treated first) · Smokers (healing is slower) · Uncontrolled diabetes · Patients on certain medications
The only way to truly know if you’re a candidate is to come in for a consultation. We use advanced imaging and clinical evaluation to assess your bone density, gum health, and overall oral health — and she’ll give you a completely honest picture of your options, with no pressure whatsoever.
Not sure if you’re a candidate?
We offer free implant consultations. In one appointment, you’ll have a clear answer — and a clear path forward.
The Dental Implant Process — Step by Step
Here’s exactly what the process looks like at The House of Dentistry:
Free Consultation & Imaging
We conduct a comprehensive exam including X-rays and/or 3D cone beam imaging to evaluate your bone volume, gum health, and overall oral health. She reviews your medical history and discusses your goals. You leave with a complete treatment plan and clear cost breakdown.
Preparatory Treatment (If Needed)
Some patients require preparatory procedures before implant placement — such as bone grafting to build up insufficient bone, or treatment of existing gum disease. We can handle these in-house, saving you referrals and extra appointments.
Implant Placement Surgery
The titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. The procedure is typically completed in under an hour. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is — and how manageable the recovery is afterward.
Osseointegration (Healing Period)
Over the next 3–6 months, the implant post fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates the incredibly strong, stable foundation that makes implants so durable. Most patients experience little to no disruption to their daily life during this period.
Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant post. This is a minor procedure that is typically done in a single appointment with minimal discomfort.
Custom Crown Placement
Your custom-made crown — designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth — is attached to the abutment. We make final adjustments for perfect fit and bite. You leave with a complete, beautiful, fully functional tooth.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implant costs vary depending on the number of implants needed, whether preparatory procedures are required, and the complexity of the case. At The House of Dentistry, we believe cost should never be a barrier to restoring your smile — which is why we offer several flexible payment solutions.
💰 Single Implant
We provide a complete, transparent cost breakdown at your free consultation — no surprises. The total investment for a single dental implant depends on several factors specific to your case, including bone density, whether preparatory procedures like bone grafting are needed, and the crown material selected. We’ll walk you through every cost component so you know exactly what to expect before any treatment begins.
🦷 Multiple Implants
Multiple implants or implant-supported bridges are priced per implant with discounts for multiple placements. Full-mouth options are also available. We provide a detailed cost breakdown at your consultation.
🏦 Cherry Financing
Apply for Cherry patient financing with simple monthly payment plans — making implants accessible without paying the full cost upfront. Many patients are approved quickly right in our office.
💳 CareCredit
We also accept CareCredit — a healthcare credit card with promotional financing options specifically designed for dental procedures, including interest-free periods for qualified applicants.
While dental implants have a higher upfront cost than dentures or bridges, they are widely considered the most cost-effective long-term solution — because with proper care, they last a lifetime. Dentures and bridges, by contrast, typically need to be replaced every 5–15 years.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures vs. Bridges
Understanding the differences between tooth replacement options helps you make the best decision for your lifestyle, health, and budget. Here’s an honest comparison:
| Feature | Implants ✅ | Bridges | Dentures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Looks natural | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Mostly |
| Feels like real tooth | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Close | ❌ No |
| Preserves jawbone | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Requires altering other teeth | ✅ No | ❌ Yes | ✅ No |
| Removable | ✅ No (permanent) | ✅ No (permanent) | ⚠️ Yes |
| Lifespan | Lifetime | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Medium | Lower |
How to Care for Your Dental Implants
One of the greatest advantages of dental implants is how easy they are to care for. Unlike dentures, there’s no special soaking routine. Unlike bridges, there’s no flossing underneath. You simply care for implants the same way you care for natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily around the implant using implant-specific floss or a water flosser
- Visit us regularly for professional cleanings — typically every 6 months
- Avoid chewing very hard items like ice or hard candy that can crack the crown
- Don’t smoke — tobacco significantly increases the risk of implant failure
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth — we can fit you for one
With proper care, dental implants placed by a qualified provider can last 20, 30, or even 40+ years — making them one of the best long-term investments in your health and quality of life.
An Implant Specialist You Can Trust — Right in Wilton Manors
🏅 ICOI Fellowship
Dr. Zachariah is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists — one of the most respected credentials in implant dentistry worldwide, held by fewer than 1% of dentists.
🎖️ VA Medical Center Training
Her AEGD residency at the Orlando VA Medical Center provided intensive hands-on surgical experience in complex cases — the kind of precision and adaptability that benefits every implant patient.
⭐ 900+ Five-Star Reviews
Our patients consistently rate their experience at The House of Dentistry 5 stars — praising Dr. Zachariah’s skill, kindness, and the team’s welcoming, professional environment.
💙 Inclusive, Judgment-Free Care
Located in the heart of Wilton Manors, we proudly serve patients of all backgrounds and identities. Every patient walks through our doors deserving the same excellent care — and that’s exactly what they receive.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Book a free implant consultation. We’ll evaluate your candidacy, answer every question, and give you a clear, honest treatment plan with no pressure and no surprises.
📅 Book Your Free Consultation
📞 Call (954) 870-6970
1201 NE 26th Street, Suite #107 · Wilton Manors, FL 33305 · Open Mon–Sat