Overview

Dunedin Dental Associates provides dental implants in Dunedin, FL. Call 727-734-3321 to learn more and schedule an appointment.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are unique in that they are the only solution for missing teeth that addresses tooth loss both above and below the gumline. By replacing the roots and crowns of teeth, dental implants can prevent and even reverse jaw bone loss, and provide a stable, long-lasting restoration that looks, feels, and functions more like natural teeth.

The dental implant itself is a small post or screw that is implanted into the jawbone to replace the root. The visible portion of your tooth (or teeth) is replaced with a restoration, which could be a crown, bridge, partial denture, or full denture. A third piece, known as an abutment, is often used to connect the implant and the restoration.

At Dunedin Dental Associates, we use advanced digital dentistry technologies for our dental implant procedures, including computer-guided implant placement software and state-of-the-art 3D cone beam CT radiography. This allows your dentist to assess your jaw’s health and bone density, then determine the best angle and placement for your dental implants.

Different Ways Implants Can Be Used

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots placed in the jawbone to hold replacement teeth or bridges. The implant is typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the jawbone over time. Dental implants are revolutionizing how we approach dental health, offering a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. You can enjoy your favorite foods, speak confidently, and smile without hesitation—dental implants make this a reality. With their durable design, implants fuse seamlessly with your jawbone, providing stability and preventing bone loss. 

Single Tooth Dental Implant

Overdenture

Fixed Denture

Benefits of Dental Implants

Longevity

Better Health

Improved Confidence

Are You a Good Candidate for Implants?

If you're in generally good health, don't have active gum disease, don't smoke, and have adequate bone mass in your jaw, you're a good candidate for traditional dental implants. If you’ve experienced jaw bone loss, you may be a candidate for a different type of dental implant procedure that requires less jawbone support or you may simply need bone grafting prior to your implant surgery.

Single Dental Implant

Dental implants are small anchors made of a biocompatible metal called titanium that are placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth in the mouth. After placement, the anchors will begin to fuse with the bone over the course of a few months. After the fusing process, known as osseointegration, abutment posts are inserted into the anchors to allow for the permanent attachment of the replacement teeth.

Implant Supported Bridges

An implant supported bridge is a restorative solution for spaces where three or more adjacent teeth are missing. This restoration typically requires two implants to support the bridge that provides a functional and aesthetic replacement for a patient’s natural teeth.

Fully Edentulous (Toothless) Solutions

For patients missing many or all of their teeth, implant retained or implant supported dentures may be an alternative to traditional dentures. These solutions can simulate the look and feel of natural teeth and stay fixed in place with the implants acting as anchors. Using implants for retention or the support of dentures allows for a smaller and more comfortable base and less shifting of the prosthesis during use.

Implant Supported Dentures

An implant supported denture requires the placement of four to six dental implants as “anchors” to provide a sturdier fit and minimal mobility for your denture. With implant supported dentures, there is no plate covering the roof of the mouth, so speaking and eating are more natural and comfortable than with traditional dentures. For qualifying patients, our doctors may be able to complete the removal of all teeth and the placement of a temporary arch on the same day.

Implant Retained Dentures

Available for full or partial dentures, implant retained dentures require the placement of two or more dental implants to secure the dentures in the mouth. This type of denture will “snap” onto the implants and can be removed for cleaning at night.

Guided Dental Implant Placement

Why Choose Dunedin Dental Associates

Our dentists have advanced training in implant dentistry, so you can feel confident knowing you’re getting the best possible care. We offer a patient-centered, personalized approach to dental implants, and we employ the latest technology for optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions About General Dentistry

The cost of dental implants varies depending on your specific needs and preferences; the best way to understand the costs involved is to schedule a consultation with us.
 
If you smoke or have active, untreated gum disease, you are not a candidate for dental implant surgery. If you have a medical condition that puts you at higher risk of infection or impairs your ability to heal after surgery, you may be ineligible for implant surgery or require special precautions during and after your procedure.
Although dental implants are usually preferable to dentures because they prevent bone loss in the jaw, each patient is unique, and there may be reasons for you to choose dentures over implants. We’ll help you make the best choice for your needs.
 
Absolutely! It’s common for patients to get dental implants after years of having a bridge or dentures. If you’ve experienced bone loss, you may need bone grafting or a sinus lift before implant surgery, but there’s no reason a tooth extracted years or even decades ago can’t be replaced with a dental implant.
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