Overview
Why implants are the closest thing to a natural tooth
A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once it bonds with the jawbone — a process called osseointegration — it supports a crown, bridge or denture that stays put when you eat, talk and laugh.
Because the implant sits in the bone, it also helps preserve the jaw. When a tooth is lost and nothing replaces the root, the bone in that area slowly shrinks, which can shift neighboring teeth and change the shape of your face over time. Implants are the only tooth replacement that addresses that loss.
Not everyone is ready for an implant on day one. Gum disease, low bone volume or certain health conditions may need to be addressed first. At your consultation we examine the area, take X-rays and give you an honest answer about whether implants are right for you — and what the alternatives are if they are not.
At a glance
- Replaces a single tooth, several teeth or a full arch
- No need to grind down healthy neighboring teeth
- Helps preserve jawbone after tooth loss
- Fixed crowns and bridges, or snap-in implant dentures
- Can last decades with good care
- Free, no-obligation implant consultation
Treatment by Dr. Shanna Bernkrant, DMD at our West Dixie Highway office.
Your options
Implant options we offer
Single-tooth implant
One implant and one crown replace one missing tooth. Nothing is attached to the teeth on either side.
Implant bridge
Two implants can support a bridge of three or more teeth — a strong solution when several neighboring teeth are missing.
Implant-supported denture
Two to four implants anchor a full denture so it snaps firmly into place. No more adhesives or slipping while you eat.
Step by step
The implant process, from consultation to new tooth
Most treatment spans a few months, mainly to let the implant heal into the bone. Each step is planned so you are never without a smile.
- Consultation & imagingExam, X-rays and a look at your bone and gum health. We discuss options, timeline and cost in writing.
- Implant placementThe post is placed under local anesthesia. Most patients are surprised how manageable it is — often easier than an extraction.
- HealingOver roughly three to six months the implant bonds to the bone. A temporary tooth can fill the space when needed.
- Your final toothA custom crown, bridge or denture is attached to the implant, shaded to blend with your natural teeth.
Compare
Implants vs. bridges vs. dentures
Dental implant
Most natural feel and chewing strength, protects bone, does not involve neighboring teeth. Higher initial cost and a longer timeline.
Traditional bridge
Faster and often less expensive, but the teeth beside the gap must be reshaped to hold the bridge, and bone under the gap still shrinks.
Removable denture or partial
The most affordable way to replace many teeth. Less stable than implants, and may need relines as the jaw changes (here’s why). Can be upgraded to implant support later.
Cost & coverage
Paying for dental implants in North Miami
We accept any PPO dental plan and any Medicare dental plan, and we file the claim for you. Coverage for dental implants depends on your plan, so we verify your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment starts — no surprise bills.
No insurance? Your consultation is free, and our in-office savings plan and payment options spread the cost into manageable pieces. We do not publish fixed prices online because the right treatment — and the cost — depends on what we find at your exam.
Many dental plans cover part of an implant crown or the extraction and bone grafting that come before it. Payment plans can make implants comparable month-to-month to other options.
FAQ
Dental Implants questions, answered
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is done with local anesthesia, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Afterward most people manage soreness with over-the-counter pain relievers for a few days.
How long do dental implants last?
With good brushing, flossing and regular checkups, the implant post itself can last for decades. The crown on top may eventually need replacing from normal wear, often after 10–15 years or more.
Am I too old for implants?
Age alone is rarely the issue. What matters is your general health, bone volume and gum health. Many patients in their 70s and 80s do very well with implants.
What if I don’t have enough bone?
Bone grafting can rebuild the area before or during implant placement. In other cases an implant-supported denture or a different restoration may be the better route — we will walk you through it.
Can I replace my loose denture with implants?
Yes. Two to four implants can turn an existing or new denture into a stable, snap-in denture that stays in place while you eat.
Missing a tooth? Find out if implants fit.
Your implant consultation is free and no-obligation. Bring questions — we will bring the X-rays.
Keep exploring
Related care at our North Miami office
Dentures & Partials
Comfortable full and partial dentures, relines and implant-supported options.
Crowns & Bridges
Rebuild cracked or worn teeth and close gaps with tooth-colored restorations.
General & Family Dentistry
Exams, cleanings, X-rays and tooth-colored fillings for kids, parents and grandparents.
Holistic & Mercury-Free Dentistry
Metal-free, biocompatible materials and a conservative, whole-body approach.