Are you missing one or more teeth? Do you want to fix gaps from lost teeth in your smile? Dental implants are a great option to replace teeth and bring back your confidence. Our doctors are skilled Sarasota dentists who offer natural-looking and long-lasting results.
We offer custom treatment plans to provide you with a comfortable and secure solution for missing teeth. Say goodbye to gaps in your smile and hello to a brighter, more confident you with dental implants. We offer tooth implants as a restorative treatment to new and existing patients in Sarasota, Florida.
Why Should You Replace Missing Teeth?
Even if you only have one missing tooth, several dental problems can happen. Here are some common issues we see when you don’t replace missing teeth:
- Shifting Teeth: When you have a gap from a missing tooth, your other teeth can move into that space. This shifting can cause overcrowding, making you more prone to decay and bite problems.
- Gum and Dental Infections: Harmful bacteria can gather in the empty space left by a missing tooth. If you lost teeth because of decay and don’t treat the infection, it can spread to other teeth.
- Bite and Speech Problems: Missing teeth can cause an uneven bite. Over time, this uneven bite can put pressure on your jaw joints, leading to teeth grinding, headaches, and facial pain. Missing teeth can also make it harder to speak clearly.
Dental implants and other implant-supported restorations give lasting support for missing teeth and help prevent jawbone loss.
Dental Implant Treatment in Sarasota, FL
Before beginning implant treatment, we first evaluate your oral health to determine if you are a good candidate and to address any existing concerns such as cavities or gum disease. A qualified implant specialist then performs the surgical placement of the implant post and healing components. Over the following three to six months, the implant integrates with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration.
Once healing is complete, our team focuses on the restorative phase by placing the abutment, which serves as the connection between the implant and the final restoration. Depending on your needs, the restoration may be a crown, bridge, or denture. Single-tooth crowns are designed in our office, while more complex restorations such as bridges and dentures are fabricated in collaboration with trusted local dental labs. Once ready, the final restoration is securely attached to the abutment.
The result is a functional, natural-looking smile. Many patients report improved comfort, better chewing ability, and increased confidence after completing implant restoration treatment.
Implant-Secured Dentures
For patients missing multiple teeth, implant-secured dentures offer improved stability and function compared to traditional dentures. Conventional dentures rest on the gums, which can make chewing difficult and may contribute to gradual bone loss over time.
Implant-secured dentures are supported by dental implants that have been placed by a specialist. In some cases, as few as four implants can support a full arch restoration. After the implants have healed, our team designs and restores a custom denture that attaches securely to the implants, helping improve comfort, function, and long-term oral health.
Teeth In a Day
Teeth In a Day refers to an advanced restorative approach that allows eligible patients to receive a temporary full-arch restoration shortly after implant surgery performed by a specialist. This approach is commonly associated with systems such as SmartFix for full-arch tooth replacement.
Prior to treatment, we complete a comprehensive evaluation and digital imaging to plan the restorative outcome. After implant placement by the specialist, our team restores the temporary prosthetic and later replaces it with a final custom restoration once healing is complete. This coordinated approach helps patients regain function and appearance more quickly while maintaining long-term stability.
Implant Systems
We restore dental implants using advanced systems such as Astra Tech Implant EV and PrimeTaper Implant systems from Dentsply Sirona. These systems are designed to support long-term implant success and allow for precise restorative outcomes.
Astra Tech Implant EV components are designed for flexibility in restorative planning, including cases with limited bone space. PrimeTaper components are well-suited for patients with compromised bone density and allow for secure restorative connections. Both systems are engineered to support strong integration and durable, predictable restorations.
Patient Review
Dental Implant FAQs
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Implant restorations are typically recommended for patients in good overall oral health with sufficient jawbone support. If additional bone support is needed, we can coordinate care and recommend bone grafting services through a qualified specialist. Our dental team can also provide preparatory treatments, such as root canal therapy or periodontal care, if needed before restorative treatment begins.
What Should I Avoid After Treatment?
Following implant-related treatment, you should avoid:
- Smoking and Tobacco Use: These can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Intense Exercise: Allow your body time to heal before resuming strenuous activity.
- Aggressive Brushing or Rinsing: Gently clean the area using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
- Chewy, Crunchy, or Hard Foods: These foods can place excess pressure on healing tissues and restorations. Stick to soft foods during recovery.
- Hot Foods or Beverages: Hot temperatures can increase sensitivity and discomfort. Choose room-temperature or cool foods and drinks instead.
How Should I Sleep After Treatment?
After implant-related surgery performed by a specialist, it’s recommended to keep your head elevated for two to three days. Sleeping with your head raised at about a 45-degree angle can help reduce swelling and support proper healing.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants replace missing tooth roots and serve as a foundation for restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Once implants have been surgically placed by a specialist and fully healed, our team restores them with custom prosthetics designed to improve function, appearance, and long-term oral health.
How Long Does the Implant Process Take?
The implant process involves multiple stages and can take several months to complete. After surgical placement by a specialist, a healing period allows the implant to integrate with the bone. Once healing is complete, we proceed with the restorative phase, including placing abutments and securing the final prosthetic. Timelines vary depending on individual needs and healing.
What Is the Success Rate of Dental Implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95%. Long-term success depends on factors such as overall health, proper healing, and consistent oral hygiene. When these factors are met, implant restorations offer a durable and reliable solution for missing teeth.
Do Implants Look Natural?
Yes. Implant restorations are custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your smile and provide a natural-looking result.
Can Smokers Get Dental Implants?
Smokers may still be candidates for implant restorations, but smoking can negatively affect healing and long-term success. Reducing or quitting smoking significantly improves outcomes, and your dental team may recommend lifestyle changes to support the best possible results.
How Do I Know If I Need Bone Grafting?
Advanced imaging and a comprehensive evaluation are used to assess bone density. If insufficient bone support is present, bone grafting may be recommended by a specialist before implant treatment to help create a stable foundation.
Can Dental Implants Fail?
Although uncommon, implant failure can occur due to factors such as infection, poor healing, or inadequate bone support. Following care instructions, maintaining good oral hygiene, and addressing concerns promptly helps reduce these risks and supports long-term success.
Do you have additional questions or concerns? Schedule a consultation today. Contact our Sarasota dental office for restorative care at 941-398-0609. You can also schedule an appointment online anytime.