This review is long overdue. I strongly encourage anyone considering treatment with this provider…read moreto conduct thorough research before making a decision.
There are serious questions prospective patients should ask themselves:
What is Dr. Franco's full legal name?
How could two individuals reportedly pass away after receiving implant procedures under his care in 2023 and 2025?
Does Dr. Franco possess the appropriate credentials to perform advanced implant surgeries?
Is he formally trained and certified as a Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and does that distinction matter in his current practice?
Why was he reportedly terminated by his former employer, Dental Alliance, around April 2021 for allegedly misrepresenting himself?
These are not minor concerns. They are questions that directly impact patient safety and transparency.
I personally explored Florida Dental Implant Studio and initially had a phone consultation on December 30, 2025. I provided my own X-rays for review, and I was encouraged to come into the office the very next day, December 31, to determine next steps.
I met with Dr. Franco and spent over three hours in consultation. After that lengthy meeting, I placed a $3,000 deposit. Additionally, I was required to pay a 2.5% processing fee--an extra $78--simply for using my Visa card. This immediately left a negative impression. Being charged a fee to pay for services felt exploitative and unnecessary, especially for a medical provider. It did not sit well with me.
Upon reviewing the treatment plan, I realized the total quoted price for upper implants and two additional single implants was $31,444. When I compared this to competitors offering similar procedures and comparable warranties, the difference was significant:
Jax Implants: $24,299 (a savings of $7,195)
ClearChoice: $27,600 (a savings of $3,844)
Despite similar services and warranties, Florida Dental Implant Studio's pricing was substantially higher.
I left the office feeling confused and unsettled. In addition to the quoted total, the 2.5% card fee and an additional $1,376 added to the overall bill made the financial structure feel unclear. Although the procedure was scheduled for January 12, 2026, and I felt relieved at the thought of addressing my dental challenges, I simultaneously felt uncomfortable moving forward.
As I walked to my car, I experienced a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Something told me to pause and do more research. It seemed unusual that an upscale practice would "nickel and dime" patients with additional fees, especially for substantial procedures.
I contacted the office manager, CJ, to request postponing the procedure so I could further review the treatment plan--specifically the necessity of the two single implants--and to express my unwillingness to pay the 2.5% Visa processing fee. I offered to provide a cashier's check on the day of the procedure instead. I was informed that full payment would be required prior to the scheduled procedure date. When I questioned why full payment was required in advance, I was given an explanation, and we agreed I would follow up the following week.
Even after that conversation, I still did not feel comfortable proceeding. However, I initially dismissed my concerns as normal anxiety about undergoing a significant dental procedure.
As a praying woman, I believe in listening to discernment. One evening while browsing YouTube, I came across a report regarding an implant doctor connected to two patient deaths following implant procedures. After watching the "Dateline Jacksonville 2025" segment, I was horrified. Suddenly, my earlier discomfort made sense. The report raised additional concerns about patient safety, oversight, and emergency preparedness.
As an educated consumer, I began asking more questions about whether I would receive proper medical support if complications arose during surgery. Ultimately, I concluded that I was not comfortable putting my health--and potentially my life--at risk.
I contacted CJ again and informed her of my decision to cancel services and requested the return of my $3,078 deposit. She stated she would consult the finance department and follow up. A week later, I was informed that my deposit would not be refunded because it was being applied as the doctor's consultation fee.
This was never clearly explained to me as a non-refundable consultation fee at the time of payment. I believed it was a deposit toward services.
It was my intention to write this review earlier, but I felt it was important to share my full experience thoughtfully and responsibly. Patients deserve transparency, clarity in pricing, and confidence in the credentials and safety practices of any provider performing invasive surgical procedures.
Please do your research. Ask questions. Trust your instincts.
Buyer beware. Dateline Jacksonville 2025 See Report;
https://youtu.be/oygqkqu29SM?si=iZgUVwyoh7nk2msy
