Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Care in Atlantis, FL


Clear Answers About Emergency Dentistry, Dental Implants, Dentures, Root Canals, Extractions, and Preventive Care

Dentist explaining a tooth model to a seated patient in a bright clinic

Dental questions often arise when you are experiencing pain, considering dental implants, dealing with damaged dental work, or trying to protect your oral health. Clear information can help you understand what may be happening and when you should schedule an appointment.

Complete Dental Care at JFK provides emergency, preventive, restorative, denture, and dental implant care in Atlantis, Florida. Led by Dr. Jackie Johns, DMD, our practice serves patients from Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and nearby Palm Beach County communities.

Use this page to find answers by topic. These answers provide general information and cannot replace a dental examination, diagnosis, or personalized treatment plan.


Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Care

  • What dental services does Complete Dental Care at JFK offer?

    Complete Dental Care at JFK offers emergency dental care, dental implants, complex dental implant care, root canal therapy, emergency tooth extractions, cracked tooth and crown repair, dentures, preventive dental care, and complete general dental services in Atlantis, FL.

  • Who is Dr. Jackie Johns, DMD?

    Dr. Jackie Johns, DMD is an experienced dentist who has practiced implant dentistry for more than 30 years. He specializes in complex dental implant cases and leads Complete Dental Care at JFK in Atlantis, FL. 

  • Do you treat dental emergencies?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK treats urgent dental problems such as severe tooth pain, cracked teeth, broken crowns, emergency extractions, root canal needs, and emergency implant issues.

  • Can dental implants replace missing teeth?

    Yes. Dental implants can replace missing teeth by supporting crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are designed to help restore chewing function, improve smile appearance, and provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth.

  • What makes a dental implant case complex?

    A dental implant case may be complex when a patient has bone loss, failed dental work, damaged implants, multiple missing teeth, infection, or needs extractions before implant placement. These cases require careful evaluation and planning. 

  • Do you serve patients from Lake Worth and West Palm Beach?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves patients from Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, Lantana, Greenacres, Wellington, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and nearby Palm Beach County communities. 


Frequently Asked Questions About Dr. Jackie Johns

  • When Should You See Dr. Jackie Johns?

    You should schedule a visit with Dr. Jackie Johns if you are dealing with any of the following dental concerns:

    • You have a missing tooth and want to learn about dental implants
    • You have loose, painful, or damaged dental implant work
    • You have severe tooth pain
    • You have been told you may need a root canal
    • You have a cracked tooth or broken crown
    • You need a tooth extraction
    • You need dentures or want to improve the fit of current dentures
    • You want a complete dental exam
    • You have not seen a dentist in a long time
    • You want a second opinion about a complex dental problem

    You do not need to know the exact treatment you need before calling. The first step is dental evaluation. From there, Dr. Johns can explain what is happening and what options are available.

  • Why do patients choose Dr Jackie Johns and Complete dental care at JFK?

    Dr. Jackie Johns, DMD has practiced Implant Dentistry for more than 30 years and specializes in complex dental implant cases.


    Dr. Johns graduated from Texas College with a Bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry; earned a Master’s Degree in Biochemistry from Prairieview University; and earned his Doctorate at Rutgers University, School of Dental Medicine.  He performed his one-year residency at the VA Hospital in West Palm Beach, FL.  Dr. Johns served as a Captain in the U.S. Army and is also a licensed commercial airline pilot.

  • What areas do you serve?

    Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves patients from surrounding Palm Beach County communities. The office is convenient for patients looking for a dentist near:

    • Atlantis
    • Lantana
    • Lake Worth
    • Greenacres
    • Wellington
    • West Palm Beach
    • Delray Beach
    • Boynton Beach

    If you live or work near JFK Medical Center, Congress Avenue, Lake Worth Road, Lantana Road, or nearby areas, Complete Dental Care at JFK provides accessible dental care for routine, restorative, implant, and emergency dental needs.


Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Implant Care

  • What should I do if my dental implant feels loose?

    Call Complete Dental Care at JFK as soon as possible. Do not chew on the loose implant, do not try to tighten it, and save any loose parts. A loose implant, crown, screw, bridge, or denture attachment should be checked quickly.

  • Is a painful dental implant an emergency?

    A painful dental implant should be evaluated as soon as possible, especially if you have swelling, bleeding, pain when biting, drainage, or a bad taste near the implant. These symptoms may point to infection, bite pressure, gum inflammation, or other implant problems.

  • Can a broken implant crown be repaired?

    Sometimes a broken implant crown can be repaired or replaced. The right option depends on the condition of the crown, screw, abutment, implant, and bite. Bring any broken pieces with you to the appointment.

  • Can Complete Dental Care at JFK help if my implant was placed by another dentist?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK can evaluate implant problems even if another dentist placed the implant. Bring any prior records or implant information if available, but you can still schedule an evaluation without them.

  • What causes a dental implant to fail?

    A dental implant may fail because of infection, bone loss, bite pressure, poor healing, damaged components, gum disease, trauma, or other health and dental factors. An exam is needed to understand what is happening and what options are available.

  • Can an infected dental implant be saved?

    Some implant infections can be treated, but it depends on the severity of the infection, bone support, implant stability, and surrounding tissue. Dr. Johns can evaluate the implant and explain whether treatment, repair, removal, or replacement may be needed.

  • Do you offer emergency implant care near Lake Worth and Lantana?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves patients from Lake Worth, Lantana, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and nearby areas.

  • Should I go to the emergency room for a dental implant problem?

    Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you have trouble breathing, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or symptoms that may be life-threatening. For dental implant pain, looseness, broken crowns, or swelling around the implant, call Complete Dental Care at JFK for dental care direction.


Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Tooth Extractions

  • Can I get a tooth pulled the same day?

    In many cases, emergency treatment can begin after an exam and X-rays. The timing depends on the tooth, infection level, medical history, and procedure complexity. Call the office so the team can help you understand urgent availability.

  • How do I know if my tooth needs to be extracted?

    Common signs include severe pain, swelling, deep decay, a broken tooth, infection, a loose adult tooth, or a wisdom tooth causing pressure. Only a dental exam and X-rays can confirm whether extraction is needed.

  • Will the extraction hurt?

    The area is numbed before the tooth is removed. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but the goal is to keep you comfortable. After the procedure, soreness is normal and will be managed with aftercare instructions.

  • What should I do before an emergency extraction?

    Call the office first. Share your symptoms, medical history, medications, allergies, and whether you have swelling or fever. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums or tooth. If you have severe facial swelling, trouble breathing, or trouble swallowing, seek emergency medical care.

  • What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

    Soft foods are usually best at first. Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or sticky foods until the area begins to heal. Follow the instructions given by the office after your procedure.

  • Can I replace the tooth after it is removed?

    Yes, many extracted teeth can be replaced with options such as dental implants, dentures, or other restorative treatments. Dr. Johns can explain which option makes sense for your mouth, health, and goals.

  • Do I need a dental implant after an extraction?

    Not always. Some teeth do not need replacement, such as certain wisdom teeth. Other teeth play an important role in chewing, bite support, or smile appearance. If replacement is recommended, dental implants may be discussed.

  • What happens if I wait too long to treat an infected tooth?

    A dental infection can become more painful and may spread. Prompt care helps reduce risk and gives you more treatment options.


Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy

  • What is a root canal?

    A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. The infected or inflamed tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned, and the tooth is sealed to help prevent reinfection.

  • How do I know if I need a root canal?

    You may need a root canal if you have severe tooth pain, pain when biting, lingering sensitivity, swelling, a gum bump, deep decay, or a cracked tooth. A dental exam and imaging are needed to confirm the best treatment.

  • Can a root canal save my tooth?

    Yes, in many cases root canal treatment can save a natural tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. The tooth may also need a crown after treatment for added strength and protection.

  • Is root canal treatment painful?

    Root canal treatment is performed with local anesthesia to help keep you comfortable. Most patients seek treatment because they are already in pain from infection. The procedure is designed to remove the source of that pain.

  • What happens if I avoid a root canal?

    If an infected tooth is not treated, pain, swelling, abscess, bone damage, or tooth loss may occur. Delaying care can also limit your treatment options.

  • Will I need a crown after a root canal?

    Many teeth need a crown after root canal treatment, especially molars and teeth with large fillings, cracks, or major decay. A crown helps protect the tooth from breaking.

  • Do you offer emergency root canal treatment?

    Complete Dental Care at JFK provides urgent dental evaluations for tooth pain and possible infection. Call the office as soon as possible so the team can help you determine the next available appointment.

  • What areas do you serve?

    Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and nearby areas.


Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Tooth & Crown Repair

  • Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?

    A cracked tooth can be a dental emergency, especially if you have pain, swelling, sensitivity, or trouble chewing. Even if there is no pain, the crack should be checked before it becomes worse.

  • Can a cracked tooth be saved?

    Many cracked teeth can be saved when they are treated early. The right treatment depends on how deep the crack goes and whether the nerve or root is involved.

  • Do I need a crown for a cracked tooth?

    A crown is often recommended when a tooth is weak, cracked, or too damaged for a filling. The crown helps protect the tooth and restore chewing function.

  • What should I do if my crown falls off?

    Save the crown and call the office. Avoid chewing on that side. Do not use household glue to put it back. The tooth underneath may be sensitive or vulnerable to decay.

  • Can a broken crown be repaired?

    Some crowns can be adjusted or recemented. Others need to be replaced. Dr. Johns will evaluate the crown, the tooth underneath, and your bite before recommending the best option.

  • Why does my crowned tooth hurt when I bite?

    Pain when biting may be caused by a loose crown, a cracked tooth, bite pressure, decay under the crown, or nerve irritation. A dental exam can identify the cause.

  • Will I need a root canal if my tooth is cracked?

    Not always. A root canal may be needed if the crack reaches the nerve or the tooth becomes infected. If the nerve is healthy, a crown or other repair may be enough.

  • Can you repair a crown on a dental implant?

    In many cases, implant crowns can be evaluated and repaired or replaced. Dr. Johns has extensive experience with implant dentistry and complex implant cases.

  • What areas do you serve?

    Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and nearby Palm Beach County areas.


Frequently Asked Questions About Our Complete Range of Dental Care

  • What is complete dental care?

    Complete dental care includes preventive, restorative, emergency, denture, and implant-related dental services. It focuses on helping patients protect their oral health, repair damaged teeth, replace missing teeth, and manage urgent dental problems.

  • Does Complete Dental Care at JFK treat dental emergencies?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK helps patients with urgent dental concerns such as tooth pain, cracked teeth, broken crowns, tooth extractions, root canal concerns, and implant-related problems. If you are in pain or unsure if your issue is urgent, call the office.

  • Do you provide dental care near Lantana and Lake Worth?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves patients from Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and surrounding areas.

  • Can I visit for both routine care and dental implants?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK provides routine dental care and also helps patients with dental implants, complex dental implant cases, and emergency implant concerns.

  • What should I do if I have a cracked tooth or broken crown?

    Call the office as soon as possible. A cracked tooth or broken crown can worsen over time and may lead to pain, infection, or further damage. An evaluation can help determine whether repair, replacement, root canal therapy, or another treatment is needed.

  • Do you offer dentures?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK helps patients with denture-related needs, including full dentures, partial dentures, denture concerns, and tooth replacement planning.

  • When should I schedule a preventive dental visit?

    Most patients benefit from regular preventive visits, but the right schedule depends on your oral health, gum health, dental history, and current concerns. During your visit, the team can recommend a schedule that fits your needs.

  • Can a painful tooth be saved?

    Sometimes. A painful tooth may be treated with restorative care, root canal therapy, or another option depending on the cause and severity of the problem. An exam is needed to determine whether the tooth can be saved or if extraction is the better choice.


Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dental Care

  • How often should I schedule a dental cleaning?

    Many patients benefit from a dental cleaning about every six months. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on gum health, cavity risk, medical history, or existing dental work.

  • Do I need dental X-rays at every visit?

    Not always. Dental X-rays are recommended based on your symptoms, dental history, risk level, and the amount of time since your last images.

  • Can preventive dental care help stop gum disease?

    Preventive care can help detect gum inflammation early and reduce plaque and tartar buildup. If gum disease is already present, Dr. Johns may recommend a more specific gum treatment plan.

  • Is preventive dental care only for people with natural teeth?

    No. Patients with implants, dentures, bridges, and crowns still need preventive dental visits. These visits help monitor gum tissue, bite, fit, comfort, and the condition of existing dental work.

  • What if I have not been to the dentist in years?

    You are welcome here. Our team will start with a complete exam, explain what we find, and help you take the next step without judgment.

  • Do you serve patients outside Atlantis?

    Yes. Complete Dental Care at JFK serves Atlantis, Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and nearby Palm Beach County communities.


Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

  • What are dentures?

    Dentures are custom appliances that replace missing teeth. They may replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or they may replace only several missing teeth.

  • What is the difference between full dentures and partial dentures?

    Full dentures replace all teeth in an arch. Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while using remaining natural teeth for support.

  • Do dentures look natural?

    Modern dentures can be designed to look natural and fit your face, gums, and smile. The goal is to create a result that looks comfortable, balanced, and realistic.

  • How long does it take to get dentures?

    The timeline depends on your needs. Some patients need extractions first. Others may be ready for impressions and denture planning right away. Same-day options may be available when clinically appropriate.

  • Can dentures be repaired?

    Yes. Many broken, cracked, loose, or uncomfortable dentures can be repaired or adjusted. Schedule an appointment before trying to fix a denture at home.

  • Are implant dentures better than regular dentures?

    Implant-supported dentures may provide more stability for some patients. They are not the right choice for everyone. A consultation can determine whether implants are a good option for your mouth.

  • Do I still need dental visits if I wear dentures?

    Yes. Regular visits help check your gums, oral tissues, bite, and denture fit. If you still have natural teeth, they also need ongoing care.


Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

  • How long do dental implants last?

    Dental implants are designed as a long-term tooth replacement option. Their lifespan depends on your oral health, home care, bite, overall health and regular dental visits.

  • Do dental implants hurt?

    Most patients are surprised that the process is more manageable than they expected. Your comfort is a priority. Dr. Johns will explain what to expect before treatment begins.

  • Can I get a dental implant after an extraction?

    In many cases, yes. The timing depends on your bone support, infection level, healing and the condition of the area. Dr. Johns can evaluate your tooth and explain the best plan.

  • Can dental implants replace dentures?

    Dental implants can be used to support dentures and help improve stability. This may be helpful if your dentures feel loose, shift when you eat or make you feel self-conscious.

  • What if I was told I do not have enough bone for implants?

    You may still have options. Complex dental implant cases often require a more detailed evaluation. Dr. Johns can review your situation and discuss possible next steps.

  • Do you treat dental implant emergencies?

    Yes. If you have pain, swelling, a loose implant crown, a broken implant restoration or another urgent implant concern, call Complete Dental Care at JFK.

  • How do I know if I am a candidate for dental implants?

    A consultation is the best first step. Dr. Johns will review your teeth, gums, jawbone, bite and health history to determine whether implants are appropriate.


Frequently Asked Questions About Complex Dental Implant Cases

  • What is a complex dental implant case?

    A complex dental implant case is an implant situation that involves more than a simple single-tooth replacement. It may include bone loss, gum issues, failed implants, multiple missing teeth, loose dentures, bite problems, or full-mouth treatment needs.

  • Can I still get dental implants if I have bone loss?

    Possibly. Bone loss makes implant treatment more involved, but it does not always rule out implants. Dr. Johns will evaluate your bone, gum health, bite, and medical history before recommending options.

  • Can a failed dental implant be fixed?

    Some implant problems can be repaired, especially when the issue involves the crown, bridge, abutment, screw, or denture attachment. If the implant itself is loose or infected, a different treatment plan may be needed.

  • What should I do if my dental implant feels loose?

    Call Complete Dental Care at JFK as soon as possible. A loose implant, loose crown, pain, swelling, or trouble chewing should be evaluated quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.

  • Are implant-supported dentures better than regular dentures?

    Implant-supported dentures may provide better stability than traditional removable dentures for patients who qualify. The right option depends on your bone, health, budget, and treatment goals.

  • How long does a complex implant case take?

    Timing depends on the number of teeth involved, bone condition, healing needs, temporary restorations, and final restoration type. Some cases are completed in stages over several months.

  • Do complex dental implant cases hurt?

    Treatment is planned with patient comfort in mind. Most patients can expect some soreness after surgical procedures, but the level of discomfort and recovery time vary by case.

  • Can I get help if another dentist placed my implant?

    Yes. Dr. Johns can evaluate existing implants, implant crowns, bridges, dentures, and related concerns to help determine what can be repaired or replaced.

  • Where is Complete Dental Care at JFK located?

    Complete Dental Care at JFK is located in Atlantis, FL and serves patients from Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, and Boynton Beach.

Still Have Questions About Your Dental Care?

You do not need to diagnose the problem yourself. Whether you are dealing with dental pain, damaged dental work, missing teeth, loose dentures, or an implant concern, an evaluation can help you understand what is happening and what options may be available.

Complete Dental Care at JFK provides dental care in Atlantis, Florida for patients from Lantana, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and surrounding Palm Beach County communities.