Are you missing teeth and dreaming of a quick fix? You've probably seen those tempting "Teeth-in-a-Day" ads promising a complete set of new replacement teeth in a single appointment. While the idea of same-day implants is appealing, it's crucial to separate fact from fiction. At the Florida Dental Implant Institute, we believe in empowering patients with the truth. Doing the right thing and being honest has never led to a shortage of patients for us. Here are five facts about same-day implants that might surprise you:
Those "same-day" implants you see advertised are typically not the final product. The teeth you receive on the day of surgery are temporary. Think of them as placeholders while your mouth heals and your implants fuse with your jawbone. This process, called osseointegration, is essential for the long-term success of your implants. The temporary teeth serve their purpose and can even be comfortable for our patients, but your final zirconia teeth will be attached during a subsequent visit. If you prefer your final teeth sooner, be sure to see an experienced specialist to determine if you are a candidate.
Most of the same-day implant ads you see on Google and Facebook are from general dentists, many of whom lack dental implant surgery experience and use a website template from a less-than-reputable marketing firm. Ever wonder why all the implant ads look alike? That is why. There are 203,315 dentists in America, but less than 4% are oral surgeons and less than 3% are periodontists. Make sure to find a certified specialist, not an inexperienced general dentist who just recently decided to start advertising for dental implants.
There are two phases of the dental implant process: surgical and restorative. The surgical specialist will extract your remaining teeth and place the implant screws, while the restorative dentist will use their artistic expertise to attach your final teeth to the implants. For optimal results, find an office with both a skilled surgical specialist and a talented restorative dentist who can work as a team to provide strong new zirconia teeth.
Don't let the promise of "same-day" distract you from the bottom line. Some dentists may advertise a low price for the initial procedure but fail to disclose the additional costs associated with the final zirconia restoration, adjustments, and follow-up appointments. For example, a local general dentist in South Florida advertises same-day full-mouth implants for $8,999, but after adding the other required fees, the total cost is closer to $20k. Always request a comprehensive treatment plan with a clear breakdown of all fees before making any decisions. And if in doubt, make sure you get a second opinion before committing to a treatment.
While the allure of "same-day" is strong, rushing the implant process can increase the risk of complications. Without adequate healing time, implants may fail to integrate properly, leading to discomfort, infection, and even the need for additional procedures. Patience is key to achieving a stable, long-lasting result. We have seen patients who chose to receive their final teeth too soon from other dentists need to have them remade due to gaps between their gums and the new teeth.
By understanding these facts, you can make a more informed decision about choosing the best implant dentist. At the Florida Dental Implant Institute, we're committed to providing transparent, high-quality care. If you're considering dental implants and want to learn more about the process, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we'll create a personalized plan to restore your smile—without any hidden surprises.