Sarasota Dental Implants

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dental implants at Sarasota Bay Dental

Implants can permanently replace missing teeth with natural-looking prosthetics, and this treatment is a major advancement in modern dentistry. Before dental implants, dentures were a patient's only option to replace missing teeth, which require daily removal and can’t remedy the bone degeneration that occurs after tooth loss. At Sarasota Bay Dental, Sarasota dentist Dr. Miller works with highly-qualified implant specialists to offer personalized treatment and restorations that look and feel natural.

Single Tooth Dental Implants

Single tooth dental implants are the most common type of implant-based restoration. If you need a single tooth replaced, Dr. Miller will assess your dental health, take x-rays and images of your teeth, and work with specialists to develop your personalized treatment plan. Then, a trusted implant dentist will surgically place the implant into your gum and jaw. Once your mouth heals, Dr. Miller will attach a beautiful, natural-looking crown to restore your smile.

Full Arch Restorations

Full arch restorations, such as All-On-Four, use multiple dental implants to replace one or both arches of your teeth. Typically, 4-6 implants are placed into the upper or lower jaw, and a dental bridge or implant-supported denture is permanently attached once they heal. Full arch restorations with dental implants from our Sarasota office are comfortable, durable, and can last a lifetime with proper care.

the benefits of implants

Dental implants are becoming the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Our patients love dental implants because:

  • They feel completely natural. Implants imitate the structure of a natural tooth root, and the restoration is permanently attached to the implant so it will not move or shift.
  • Bone and gum resorption is a common issue for patients with missing teeth, but implants can strengthen jaw and gum tissue to remedy this problem.
  • Dental implants will last you the rest of your life with proper daily care. The implant is permanently anchored to your jaw tissue, so as long as you keep it healthy and free of infections and it heals properly, it will never wear out. More than 90% of implants last 30+ years, and many patients are able to keep them for the rest of their lives.

If you neglect your oral health and your gums become infected with gum disease, for example, this could cause a condition called “peri-implantitis,” which could lead to premature implant failure. Keep your mouth in good shape with proper brushing and flossing and regular dental visits, and your new tooth will last a lifetime!

the dental implant process

Once Dr. Miller approves you for implant surgery, he will refer you to a trusted local implant specialist who will work with you to develop your treatment plan and explain the implant process. Treatment will begin with a cleaning, and after anesthetic or sedation is administered to keep you comfortable, a small incision will be made into your gum and jaw. Next, the dental implant (a small titanium post) will be placed into the opening. The treatment area is then cleaned and sutured shut, and your implant will heal over a period of a few months.

You may experience some pain and discomfort as you recover from this surgical procedure. Usually this is quite mild, and symptoms like pain, tenderness, bleeding, swelling, and inflammation will peak within 2-3 days and fade quickly. During this time, it’s important to follow the recovery instructions provided to you by Dr. Miller. This ensures your mouth heals properly, and that you minimize discomfort after your surgery.

As it heals, the implant will permanently bond with your gum and jaw tissue (this process is called “osseointegration”). Once your implant has completely healed and bonded, Dr. Miller will design a beautiful, custom-made dental restoration and permanently affix it to your implant. When treatment is finished, you’ll leave our office with a restored smile that looks and feels completely natural.

It All Starts with a Consultation!

Dr. Miller has years of experience designing and placing implant restorations, and he has developed relationships with highly-qualified dental implant specialists in Sarasota to make your treatment seamless and efficient. You can trust our team to deliver fantastic results and help you restore your smile permanently. Call us at (941) 200-3723, contact us online, or visit our office at 2809 University Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34243 to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Navigating the world of dental insurance can often feel like a maze. When it comes to dental implants, the coverage varies significantly between different insurance providers and individual policies. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of dental implants, while others may not offer any coverage at all.

It's crucial to understand that dental implants are often considered a "cosmetic" procedure, which is why some insurance companies may not cover them. However, at Sarasota Bay Dental, we believe that dental implants are much more than a cosmetic solution. They are a vital investment in your oral health and overall well-being.

We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to understand what your specific plan covers. Alternatively, our friendly and knowledgeable team at Sarasota Bay Dental can help you navigate your insurance policy and discuss various financing options available to ensure you receive the quality dental care you deserve.

How Long Does a Dental Implant Last?

The longevity of a dental implant can depend on several factors, including your overall health, oral hygiene habits, and regular dental check-ups. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years, often several decades, and in many cases, for a lifetime.

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth. They are made from biocompatible materials, which allow them to fuse with your jawbone, providing a stable and durable foundation for the replacement tooth.

Dr. Robert Miller of Sarasota Bay Dental is highly skilled in the placement of dental implants. He ensures that each implant is placed with precision and care, maximizing its lifespan and effectiveness.

Are Dental Implants Better Than Dentures or Bridges?

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants can offer several advantages over traditional dentures or bridges.

Unlike dentures, which can slip and move in your mouth, dental implants are securely anchored in your jawbone, providing a stable foundation for your replacement teeth. This means you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about your teeth moving or falling out.

Compared to bridges, dental implants don't require the alteration of your surrounding healthy teeth. A dental bridge requires the adjacent teeth to be filed down to support the bridge, which can compromise their health and longevity.

Furthermore, dental implants help to preserve your jawbone and maintain your facial structure, which can often be compromised when you lose a tooth.

How Long After Dental Implants Can I Eat Normally?

After the placement of dental implants, it's essential to follow a soft food diet for a few days to allow the surgical site to heal. During this time, foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies are excellent choices.

As your mouth heals, you can gradually reintroduce harder foods into your diet. It's important to avoid chewing directly on the implant site until it has fully healed.

Once your dental implant has healed and your replacement tooth has been placed, you should be able to eat normally. Dental implants function just like your natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without discomfort or fear of dislodging a denture or damaging a bridge.