At Donato Implant Dentistry, we specialize in implant placement. Although having a beautiful smile and the confidence that comes with that are important, there are also important health reasons to have dental implants. Whether replacing one tooth or several, implants are an important solution to restoring and maintaining dental health.
Once a tooth is lost, several things begin to happen that are not immediately noticeable to a patient and which can have a significant negative effect on both health and appearance. Tooth roots help hold teeth in place, but they are also critical in maintaining health in the surrounding gums and supporting bone structures. Bone loss in the jawbone is one of the significant problems that naturally occurs once a tooth is lost. This bone loss can compromise the integrity of neighboring tooth roots and tooth stability. This bone loss is also a large part of what causes the sunken look that is seen in people who have lost several or all of their teeth. It is the reason patients who wear dentures find that over time their dentures are harder and harder to fit and keep in place.
Dental implants are the replacement of tooth roots in the mouth. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Dental implants, which are placed in the jawbone, are small anchors made of a biocompatible metal called titanium. The anchors 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.
Using a virtual 3-D model or a physical model, implant placements and the following restorative work can be simulated to create the ideal patient treatment plan. These virtual plans allow the doctor to take multiple aspects of implant placement and restoration into consideration, resulting in optimal aesthetics, function and longevity for the patients final restoration. Working with a 3-D model also allows the patient to better understand the procedures and visualize the end result.
Once planning is complete, specialized software can be used to create a surgical guide for use during implant placement. This guide directs the exact location, angle and depth of the implant placement. The use of the guide increases the accuracy, efficiency, safety and predictability of the procedure.
An implant supported bridge is a restorative solution for spaces where three or more adjacent teeth are missing. Thebridge replaces multiple adjacent missing teeth without the use of a denture. This restoration typically requires two implants to support the porcelain bridge. The bridge provides a functional and aesthetic replacement for the patients natural teeth.
Implant supported dentures can be either fixed or removable. This solution requires the placement of two or more implants. If a removable denture is selected, the denture will snap on to the implant rather than requiring the use of denture paste or adhesives. Removable dentures can be taken out for cleaning at night.
Easy to care for, this solution can simulate the look and feel of natural teeth and stay fixed in place with the implants acting as anchors. Patients will not experience the typical rocking and movement or gum irritation associated with dentures.
Dental implant placement can also help alleviate the sunken look that can occur with bone loss in the jaw by stimulating bone growth in the area around the implant. This process is called osseointegration and can also help prevent future bone loss.
Easy to care for, this solution can simulate the look and feel of natural teeth and stay fixed in place with the implants acting as anchors. Patients will not experience the typical rocking and movement or gum irritation associated with dentures. Patients can often leave the same day with a full arch of teeth, reducing both overall cost and healing time for the patient.
Dental implant placement can help alleviate the sunken look that can occur with bone loss in the jaw by stimulating bone growth in the area around the implant. This process is called osseointegration and can also help prevent future bone loss.
Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as laughing gas, is an effective and safe sedation agent that is inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. Mixed with oxygen, Nitrous oxide allows you to breathe normally through your nose and within minutes you should start to feel the effects. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some patients comment that their legs and arms feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel comfortable and calm. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly after the small mask is removed. Talk to the doctor about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.
IV sedation/general anesthesia uses medications to allow the patient to go to sleep while receiving dental treatment. Surgical patients or patients with high levels of anxiety, or special needs may benefit from IV sedation/general anesthesia. The doctor can discuss the benefits of general anesthesia and help patients determine if it is the best choice for them.
Reviews
Rating 4.6 out of 5 based on 144 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAmy Hardcastle
2 years ago
I am so happy to have found this dental practice! The staff is extremely friendly and professional (thanks Alexis!) and Dr Fortier was very thorough, taking time to review and explain all of the dental images with me on my first visit. My cleaning was also painless, the hygienist was kind and did an amazing job.
Robert DeFelice
2 years ago
Thank you Alexis and Dr. Fabrica for taking such great care of me. Like everyone I'm not a fan of going to the dentist, but this office makes going tolerable. They use the newest technology, they take the extra time to explain all your options and give you real answers..not just what you want to hear. Extra thanks to Alexis for taking the extra time with me and my temporary bridge. It looks great. In the future I wouldn't consider going to another place if I needed more work done. Highly Recommend.
Paris Lee
2 years ago
I had my first initial appointment today with Dr. Kevin Fortier, and I must say how very pleased I was with the service from start to finish! The front staff was very professional, friendly and overall very welcoming! Dr. Fortier showed and explained to me everything in great detail and offered options to things that I wasn't even aware of or offered by my previous dentist of over 10yrs. The x-ray tech was really sweet and the hygienist also was awesome and gentle! If you are looking for a dentist in the north St. Petersburg area, I highly recommend Lifetime Smiles for satisfying dental care!
Marian Lovern
2 years ago
Dr. Danato is truly special! If you pay close attention, you will notice that he is not only the highest quality dentist I have ever had to pleasure of work on my teeth but an exceptional person in many other ways. Pay attention because he is so humble and polite you might miss the fact that he loves what he does by his intricate work to ensure everything is done at its best for those he serves. I had a root canal that altered the tooth so much for the crown waiting to be placed, he had to rebuild the tooth so a crown could be placed at all. His patience, artistry, and remarkable interest for me getting the crown done right, touched me deeply. Although he never said anything, I am sure since there was no rear molar next to it, the loss of another tooth in this area would have altered my smile. He and his staff spent 2 hours getting preparing the tooth by basically making enough to hold firmly the new crown. This is a true professional with artistic abilities and a desire to put his patients above himself. While he did this intricate work with his assistant, he explained each process he was doing, thereby also training his staff in a very complicated, artistic process. He has a desire to help people, not just do the job. One needs only to look in his eyes to know his heart!
Kyle Troxel
2 years ago
Lived in St. Pete for over 30 years, this is the 3rd dentist I've been to and by far the best. I've gone 5 times now and the service and quality is always above and beyond anything I've dealt with in the past. I've had dental issues my whole life and spent so much time at the dentist, I just wish I started going here sooner.
Ankit Gupta
2 years ago
I have visited here 3-4 times. One of my sealant (filling) didn't go well. Dr Alter and his team helped and with no extra charges. I will probably now need to see Dr Denato. Only thing i want to point out is that they should keep the patient in confidence like what is gonna happen next and what are the best practices post op.
Mon Mur (MonMur)
2 years ago
WAS 5 STARS BEFORE: Dr. Bushati and all the hygienists, and frankly the entire staff, are the best in the area. They strive to give you the best treatment and best aesthetics at the same time. Everyone has a great personality and demeanor. No one likes going to the dentist. But when you find a great one, it makes dental visits a bit easier to go through with. UPDATE TO 1 STAR : since the office was sold and Dr. Bushati left, I had a multi-week ordeal with the office. Staff is still very nice and wonderful. Newer dentist(s) in this office will ask if you are numb and when you say no or not entirely, they will proceed with the painful thing anyway that you didn't consent to (removal of live tissue). Multiple times this happened, and I got 4-5 rounds of shots before they finally decided to numb my face for real (purple needle) before I passed out. I don't have a fear of dentists or cry, but this one has put a fear in me now and the experience did cause some tears. Sadly, was on a timeline with some crowns on order, so I couldn't change practices, otherwise I would have run screaming from their chair. I am still appalled I had to go through that AND pay for it.
princy4183
2 years ago
Alexis, Tatiana, and Dr. Pierpont always make me feel at ease. I do appreciate coming here and highly recommend.
Bao Abraham
2 years ago
My visit to this dental office was great. Starting with the front office, very polite, very helpful, and kind. From my cleaning to dental repair, my visit was memorable not only because everything went smoothly. But also because Alexis and Dr P are an entertaining pair, they seem to be enjoying their work together and if that's anything to judge this office by, I'd give it a 10 out of 10. My story starts back in 2017 when I first moved to Florida, I have visited other dental offices but decided to come back to this one there you go it's one of the best offices around.
golddonut9847
2 years ago
Everyone is very nice and welcoming. Best dentist I've been to. I wouldn't go anywhere else
Tatum Stam
2 years ago
Everyone here is fabulous! It is hard to find a group of people that are fun and still professional. You can tell they have a good time together. I have yet to have a bad experience and always leave with a smile on my face.. pun intended! If you are looking for a dentist this is your spot.
Ocean Cohen
2 years ago
Christopher at the front desk was wonderful and my dental hygienist Shannon was also amazing! I appreciated how thorough all the staff members and doctors were.
Trinity L
2 years ago
I've been going to this dentist for over 5 years now I've always had such amazing service. The receptionist is always so kind and he make sure that everything is taken care of. Alexis has been my hygienist for a year now and she is phenomenal! She is SO great at her job, always makes sure I'm comfortable and happy with the results as well. She is so nice and has always made sure that I'm aware of what's going on each and every step of the way - unlike the experience you can get from a lot of other lesser quality dentists out there. It really is nice to be able to relax throughout the appointment and not feel that jittery stress that can happen with clinical appointments. The actual building is very clean and everyone here follows COVID procedures so I feel safe as well (especially since I obviously cannot have a mask on during my appointment). Overall, this is a 5/5 establishment and everyone you'll work with here knows there stuff .. really!
Janna Franklin
2 years ago
Alexis is an Exceptional Dental Hygienist with a very strong Positive Can Do Attitude! She begins with Listening, Acknowledging and truly Caring about any concerns you have or any changes you've noticed. Alexis then explains her process and approach ... before starting with her examination :>) Alexis also explains what she's doing and seeing as she cleans your teeth ... she will compliment you on the areas where you are doing a great job :>) And more importantly, will point out "areas of concern" that require more of your attention :>) I sincerely recommend Alexis to ALL ... to become your Professional Lifetime Smiles Dental Hygienist :>) Addiionally, please note that the Lifetime Smiles Office Staff is always ready and willing to assist new patients as well as existing patients ... just give them a call!
Yara Lugo
2 years ago
I didn't like dentist visits, so for many years I neglected my dental health just because of the bad experiences I've had. Lifetime Smiles really changed that. The office staff is so kind; the dentists and hygienists are excellent. I just feel so comfortable there. Everyone treats you well. Highly recommend.
Tynesha Ryan
2 years ago
Mary was excellent with my 9 year old daughter she explained everything to her making her feel very comfortable my daughter is a piece of work and she didn't let that stop her anything she continued to work with her she definitely have PATIENCE with kids. The doctor was amazing I would highly recommend
Dwayne Tran
2 years ago
Before starting the service they told me what was covered through the insurance and what I'm responsible to pay at the end of the service. Signed the pricing we agreed on. Got the serviced done and paid the remaining balance before leaving the office. 3 weeks later I get a bill from them that I owed them money. Called back to talk to esa, the manager. She was no help. Apparently they underestimate their pricing and now they're making the client pay for the difference even though I already paid what was due from me at the service. I tried to get the corporate number and she refuse to give me one. Then I asked for the business owner number and she refused to give it to me. She insist she was the only one you can talk to. I gave them my insurance info 3 weeks prior to my appointment date. They should of been able to give me the correct pricing for the service.
Amyah Anderson
2 years ago
Absolutely the best hands down, the entire staff is absolutely fantastic. I have never been at ease in a dental office I actually fell asleep while get my service. Everyone here is patient. Kind and knowledgeable.
Stephanie Jean-Baptiste
2 years ago
Cathy my hygienist was very gentle and sweet with my long neglected teeth. Lex was super informative on whitening. Dr. Donato is very nice and explained everything thoroughly. The entire staff is always super friendly and make you feel comfortable. I have been coming for years. Really a great find in St Pete, couldn't ask for a better dental practice.
Katrina Kerber
2 years ago
Lex and Christopher were awesome today. I've been coming here for years. Thank you for doing a great job on my crown! Finished my entire treatment an today on 12/28! Great job.
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