Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

The gold standard in tooth replacement

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it functions as a synthetic tooth root. Once it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration, a custom crown, bridge, or full-arch restoration is attached on top — creating a result that looks, feels, and performs like a natural tooth.

Unlike removable dentures or traditional bridges, implants don't rely on neighboring teeth for support, and they preserve the bone structure beneath the gumline that would otherwise deteriorate after tooth loss.

At Wellington Periodontal Associates, implants are placed directly by our specialist periodontists — Dr. Baradarian and Dr. Ceravolo — who limit their entire practice to periodontics and implant surgery. You won't be referred out. Everything is handled in-house, at one of our two Palm Beach County offices.

Ideal For

One or more missing teeth
Failed or failing dental bridges
Loose or uncomfortable dentures
Full-arch tooth loss (All-on-X)

Procedure Time

Single implant placement: 1–2 hours
Full-arch (All-on-X): half-day procedure
Healing period: 3–6 months

Specialist Advantage

Both doctors limit their practice exclusively to periodontics and implant surgery — every implant is placed by a board-trained specialist, not a generalist.

How It Works

Your implant journey, step by step

Every implant case is unique. Here is what most patients can expect from their first consultation to their final restoration.

Consultation & 3D Imaging

We assess your bone volume, gum health, and bite using advanced 3D cone-beam imaging and create a precise, individualized treatment plan.

Implant Placement

Under local anesthesia, a titanium post is placed into the jawbone in an outpatient procedure. Most patients return to normal activity within a few days.

Osseointegration

Over 3–6 months, the implant fuses with your bone — creating a permanent, stable foundation. A temporary restoration keeps things looking and functioning normally.

Final Restoration

A custom crown, bridge, or arch prosthetic is attached. The final result looks natural, fits precisely, and is designed to last a lifetime with proper care.

Why Choose Implants

Benefits that last a lifetime

Look and feel completely natural

Custom restorations are crafted to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. Most people can't tell the difference — including you.

Preserve your jaw bone

When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone begins to deteriorate. Implants are the only tooth replacement that stimulates the jaw and prevents this bone loss.

Designed to last a lifetime

With proper care and regular maintenance, dental implants can last 20–30 years or more. They are the longest-lasting tooth replacement option available.

No impact on neighboring teeth

Unlike traditional bridges, implants don't require filing down healthy adjacent teeth. Your natural teeth remain completely intact.

Eat and speak with confidence

Implants function with the same biting force as natural teeth. No dietary restrictions, no slipping, no adhesive — eat whatever you want.

Easy to maintain

Care for implants exactly as you would your natural teeth — regular brushing, flossing, and periodic cleanings with your hygienist.

Am I a Candidate?

Most adults are good candidates for implants

The best candidates for dental implants are:

Missing one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease

Adults with fully developed jawbones (typically 18+)

Adequate bone density, or willing to undergo a bone graft first

Healthy gum tissue, or with treatable gum disease

Non-smokers, or willing to stop during healing

Not sure if you qualify?

A free consultation with Dr. Baradarian or Dr. Ceravolo will give you a clear answer. We evaluate bone volume, gum health, and overall suitability — and if you're not quite ready, we'll tell you exactly what to do first.

What to Expect

Before, during, and after your procedure

Before

Comprehensive planning

We take 3D cone-beam CT scans to map your bone and plan implant placement precisely. We review your medical history, discuss anesthesia options, and answer every question before scheduling.

During

Comfortable outpatient procedure

Performed under local anesthesia (sedation available), the placement itself takes 1–2 hours for a single implant. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward it is. You'll go home the same day.

After

Mild, manageable recovery

Some swelling and tenderness is normal for 3–5 days. Most patients return to desk work the next day. We provide detailed post-op instructions and follow up with you directly throughout healing.

Common Questions

Frequently asked about dental implants

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, the titanium implant post itself can last a lifetime — it integrates with your bone and becomes a permanent part of your anatomy. The crown on top typically lasts 15–25 years before needing replacement due to normal wear. Regular dental cleanings and good home hygiene are the main factors in long-term success.

Is the implant procedure painful?

Most patients are surprised by how tolerable the procedure is. The placement is performed under local anesthesia, so you feel pressure but not pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is similar to a tooth extraction — typically managed well with over-the-counter pain relievers. Sedation is available for anxious patients.

Do I need a referral from my dentist?

No referral is required. You can call our office directly or submit a consultation request online and we'll confirm your appointment within one business day. If you do have a referring dentist, we're happy to coordinate with them throughout your care.

What is the difference between implants and dentures?

Dentures sit on top of the gums and are removed at night. They can slip, affect speech and taste, and don't prevent bone loss. Implants are anchored in the bone and are permanent — they function, look, and feel like natural teeth, preserve the jawbone, and require no special removal or adhesive. For patients who qualify, implants are almost always the superior long-term choice.