Dental Implant Surgery Coral Gables, FL
Dental implants are teeth prostheses usually used for adults with missing teeth. Implant restorations are designed to feel, function, and appear like natural teeth. Dental implant surgery involves the surgical placement of implant posts into the jawbone.
Dental implant surgery is available at Shari A Witkoff, DMD in Coral Gables and the surrounding area. Aside from the cosmetic benefits of dental implants, they also help preserve the oral cavity structure. To learn more about this process, call our office at (305) 460-9561 to book an appointment with Shari A Witkoff, DMD.
Getting Started with Dental Implant Surgery
Due to the surgical nature of the process, the dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to ensure the patient is eligible for the implant restoration. The dentist may use X-rays, teeth models, CT scans, and a precision surgical guide during this process. This will allow them to determine the patient's bite, the proper positioning of the implants and restoration, and the quality and density of the jawbone. Then, they will judge the condition of the jawbone based on the scans and the number of teeth that need replacement.
The dental professional will also inquire about any existing medical condition and current medications, including supplements and those bought over the counter. If the patient has a cardiovascular condition, diabetes, or orthopedic implants, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics ahead of the surgery to stop the infection. The dentist will also discuss pain management options and provide instructions to follow before and after the surgery.
Patients should arrange for transport home after the treatment because they may not be fit to drive. In addition, it is also a good idea to free up one's schedule and rest for at least 24 hours after the surgery, as rest is an important part of the recovery process.
“Patients should arrange for transport home after the treatment because they may not be fit to drive.”
Preparing for the Surgery
Dentists typically perform dental implant surgery in multiple stages, allowing the jawbone to heal fully before attempting further operations. The surgery starts with a process known as "site preparation." This requires preparing a small hole in the bone, called an osteotomy. The dentist will create small incisions on the gums (to form small flaps) to reach the bone. Then, they will provide a visual of the bone's shape and location.
If a surgical guide was created, the dentist will place it in the patient's mouth and perform the osteotomy through it for accuracy. The dentist will use a drilling sequence that increases the hole gradually until it matches the implant shape perfectly for the required precision fit.
“Dentists typically perform dental implant surgery in multiple stages, allowing the jawbone to heal fully before attempting further operations.”
The Surgical Operation
The next process is to place the implants into the sites to begin the healing process. After placing the implants correctly, the dentist will end the surgery by closing the gum tissues. They usually use self-absorbing stitches that do not need removal.
The jawbone will need to heal (a process known as osseointegration) before the dentist places the abutment (the part that screws over the implants). Afterward, the final restoration will be attached on top to complete the implant restoration process. The entire treatment could take several months depending on the rate at which the jaw heals, so patience is necessary throughout.
“The jawbone will need to heal (a process known as osseointegration) before the dentist places the abutment (the part that screws over the implants).”
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Post-Op Care
After the surgery, it is normal to experience the following:
- Bruising
- Facial and gum swelling
- Minor bleeding
- Pain around the surgery site
If the symptoms persist for more than a few days after surgery, patients need to contact the dentist immediately, as it may indicate a more significant issue that needs urgent treatment. The dentist may recommend eating only soft foods and applying ice packs to alleviate the swelling to promote healing.
Dental implants generally have a high success rate, but there may be complications related to the bone's integration with the dental implant. Following these practices may help to lower the risk of complications:
- Adopt good oral hygiene practices
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
- Shun harmful oral habits, such as chewing on hard substances and teeth grinding
- Visit the dental office regularly
“Dental implants generally have a high success rate, but there may be complications related to the bone’s integration with the dental implant.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the risks of dental implant surgery?
Q. What happens during the initial consultation?
Q. How should someone prepare for dental implant surgery?
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. What should a patient do after dental implant surgery?
People Also Ask
Q. What is the importance of follow-up appointments after implant treatment?
Q. What factors enable a patient to receive dental implants?
Q. What can patients do to reduce their anxiety about receiving a dental implant?
Q. How many post-op follow-up appointments will I need?
Risks Associated with Dental Implant Surgery
The success rate for dental implant surgery is high, and complications are rare and typically not a serious concern with prompt dental care. Primary complications include nerve damage or injury to an adjacent tooth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, oral surgery raises the risk of local or systemic infection. However, we will take every precaution to help the patient avoid these complications. We will provide detailed instructions on how to recover, which may include good oral hygiene and possible medication to prevent infection.
The failure rate of dental implant surgery is low—only 5-10%. Bone loss is a leading cause, but something that can be remedied. It is not uncommon for those undergoing dental implant surgery to need bone grafting to prepare the jaw. This adds several months to the process, but greatly increases the chance of success.
“We will provide detailed instructions on how to recover, which may include good oral hygiene and possible medication to prevent infection.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What can I use for pain management after dental implant surgery?
A. The dentist will likely recommend Tylenol® or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Advil®, Motrin®, or Aleve® to alleviate pain. You need to use any prescribed medication according to the dentist's instructions. Ensure you eat or drink something before taking any pain meds, so you do not feel nauseated.
Q. What can I eat after the surgery?
A. It is advisable to stick to soft and easy-to-chew foods. Good examples include yogurt, ice cream, smoothies, steam vegetables, and warm soup. Ensure you avoid tough or sharp-edge foods such as steak, tortilla chips, and pretzels.
Q. How long before I get back to normal after my dental implant surgery?
A. Most patients get back to normal within a week after the implant surgery. The first few days may be slightly uncomfortable, but your condition will improve over time. Follow aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Q. Can I get a new tooth immediately?
A. The dentist will be able to provide an estimate of the treatment timeline after the initial evaluation. The dentist may provide qualifying patients with a temporary dental prosthesis to wear during the osseointegration process. However, the dentist will only place permanent dental restoration after the bone heals fully.
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Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
Get in touch with our team today at 305-460-9561. We respond to all who are interested in our services promptly. On your first visit, we will answer your questions, provide information about the process, and help you make an informed decision about dental implant surgery.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
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We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Coral Gables, FL area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, Family Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, All-on-4 Dental Implants, Implant Supported Dentures, Dentures and Partial Dentures.
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