Dental Implants in Clearwater

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved

The implants are tiny posts made of titanium or zirconia and are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.

Dental implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either Dr. Precaj or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

We Provide Faster Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Precaj is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.

Dental implant placement is a team effort between a periodontist and a restorative dentist. Dr. Precaj performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

We Offer Zirconia Based Dental Implants for a Higher Rate of Implant Success

Zirconia dental implants are a modern tooth replacement option that offers unique benefits, especially for those seeking a metal-free solution. Composed of zirconium dioxide, a highly durable ceramic, zirconia implants have become popular for their strength, compatibility with the body, and natural-looking appearance.

Benefits of Zirconia Dental Implants

1. Biocompatibility

• Hypoallergenic: Zirconia is highly biocompatible, meaning it is well-tolerated by the body with minimal risk of allergic reaction or rejection. This makes it a great option for patients with sensitivities or allergies to metals, such as titanium.
• Lower Risk of Inflammation: Zirconia does not trigger inflammatory responses, which can help reduce the risk of peri-implantitis, a type of gum infection around implants that can lead to implant failure.

2. Strength and Durability

• High Fracture Resistance: Zirconia is incredibly strong and highly resistant to cracks and fractures, making it an excellent choice for long-term tooth replacement.
• Corrosion Resistant: Unlike metals, zirconia doesn’t corrode over time, which can increase its longevity and stability in the mouth.

3. Aesthetics

• Natural Tooth Color: Zirconia is white, which closely matches the natural color of teeth, making it a more aesthetic option than titanium. This is especially beneficial for implants in the front of the mouth, where metal implants may sometimes show through the gums.
• Reduced Risk of Gray Gum Line: With titanium implants, there can sometimes be a visible gray line at the gumline, especially if the gums recede over time. Zirconia implants eliminate this risk, providing a more natural look.

4. Reduced Plaque Accumulation

• Smooth Surface: Zirconia has a very smooth surface, which makes it harder for bacteria and plaque to adhere. This can help improve oral hygiene and reduce the likelihood of gum disease around the implant site.
• Supports Gum Health: By minimizing bacterial buildup, zirconia implants support healthier gums and help prevent inflammation and infection.

5. Metal-Free Option

• Ideal for Metal-Sensitive Patients: Some patients prefer a completely metal-free dental option, whether due to sensitivity or personal preference. Zirconia is entirely metal-free, which appeals to patients seeking holistic or biocompatible dentistry.
• No Interference with MRI Scans: Because zirconia is not a metal, it won’t interfere with MRI or other types of imaging, which is a consideration for some patients with medical needs.

6. One-Piece Design Option

• Fewer Parts, Lower Infection Risk: Many zirconia implants come in a one-piece design, where the implant and abutment (the part that connects the implant to the crown) are a single unit. This reduces the risk of bacterial infiltration and provides a solid, seamless structure.
• Simplified Placement: The one-piece design can sometimes simplify the implant placement process, though it may not be suitable for every case.

7. Long-Term Stability

• Osseointegration: Zirconia has shown excellent osseointegration, meaning it fuses well with the jawbone, providing strong, stable support for crowns. While titanium also offers excellent osseointegration, zirconia is increasingly showing comparable results.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jaw bone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the dental implant has bonded to the jaw bone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Dr. Precaj can then start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.