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 4.8 out of 5 based on 36 reviews
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a year ago
Lifetime Smiles of Tampa is a 5-start dental practice. Exceptional customer service from the moment you walk in. I had my appointment with Cathy (hygienist), she took her time, and was very thorough and professional. She did an amazing job cleaning my teeth. The professionalism and friendliness of the whole team is outstanding, They make you feel right a home. Thank you Cathy, Sandra, Sheila, Shalimar & Dr Mason, I feel like I have known everyone there for years and they truly make you feel comfortable. Best dental office in the Tampa Bay Area. Highly Recommended!!
Fernando Resto-Rivera
a year ago
First, and foremost I would to thank LifeTime Smile of TampaBay. Lifetime smile stands for is slogan and services. I reviewed numerous offices near the Tampabay but neither compared to this elegance. While speaking via telephone with Ms.Ortega she offered me to come into the office. Everything about Dr. Donato office is wonderful. The cleanliness and comfort of the office is great. Staff took their time to explain every single detail. I have never consulted with a dentist who actually sits down with you and goes over your teeth one by one and explain any discrepancies. Also, upon my exit I was offered me to meet Team members from receptionist to assistants, and anesthesiologist, such friendly and warm beings who are very knowledgeable and who really take care of you with great energy. I informed the Team I work locally for the Hillsborough County Sheriff Office and currently didn't have insurance. They had no worries and had set me up with great finance package comfortable for my daily lifestyle . The insurance policy and financial assistance programs available were explained down to the tee. If you want to feel like at home. And have at Team that works for you LifeTime Smile here in the TampaBay area should be your #1 choice. Thank you Dr. Donato,Ms.Ortega, Ms,Mattei, Ms.Jeffery, Ms, Varon.
Sheree Gill
a year ago
The office staff is very friendly and courteous. No troubles with my appt. time. Went in and was taken in right away as always. Dr. Donato is caring, kind and very friendly. Plus he is absolutely gorgeous!
John Mason
2 years ago
Had a cleaning and exam. Was a very pleasant experience. Everyone was very nice and friendly.
Naomi May
2 years ago
I've been going here for several years now and Dr. Donato is the best there is! He is a painless dentist and has never hurt me. His staff is friendly and helpful. His hygienist is also gentle and thorough. I would give them more stars if I could!
Miriam Franceschi
2 years ago
Dr Donato and TGH personnel are So empathic and sweet . I will sponsor them always. Thanks
sonia diaz
2 years ago
I Lifetime. I started last year when I changed insurance. My hygienist, Kathy, is one of my favorite as she does such a great job cleaning my teeth. Everyone has been great and I feel blessed having found them!!!
Kyle McGowan
2 years ago
Staff and doctors are excellent, they really understand the challenges of handicap adults when going to the dentist.
Peggy Brust
2 years ago
The staff were very nice. They took the time to answer all of our questions and go over the next steps for our sons treatment. We have a special needs son who requires special care to get him the dental treatment he needs. The staff if very caring and flexible. Highly recommend Dr Donato and his team.
Laura Hovan
2 years ago
Always professional yet personable! Mary Catherine is absolutely the best dental hygienist who provides indepth cleanings and Dr Donato is the best dentist I've ever had. We found him as he specializes in working with special needs patients...truly a gift. I had a daughter with extreme anxiety and he was the only dentist who was able to work with her to accomplish extractions. The entire staff has always been extremely helpful and kind. If you have to go to the dentist, which we should all do regularly to avoid trouble and cost down the road, I highly recommend Lifetime Smiles and Dr Christopher Donato!
Gary Nolen
2 years ago
Dr. Donato is the best! He may possibly be the best dentist in the entire United Ststes. Plus he's also a very nice guy
Kelly Brewer
2 years ago
Wonderful people in a wonderful practice. Professional and caring!
Kelly Brewer
3 years ago
Wonderful people in a wonderful practice. Professional and caring!
Pamela RobinsonAltman
3 years ago
I have been going to Lifetime for a very long time (over 10 years) - always wonderful people - from the front desk to the dentists themselves. I recommend them for any dental work you have.
Carl Scott
3 years ago
Dr. Donato has gone above and beyond his services to help our son jarrett.jarrett is 25 years old ,Down syndrome and needs extensive dental work.medicaid and insurance has sent us to over 12 dentist in last year only to be turned down! DR.DONATO is number one and can do this surgery !Thanks to great staff and their willingness to help, our prayers may be soon answered! Carl Scott our prayers were answered this year.jarrett smiles for first time and eats everything thanks dr donato
Michelle Burgos
4 years ago
Been coming here for almost 12years and there is no dentist like Dr D he always greets you with kindness and remembers you even if it's been a while since your last visit. He really loves what he does and has such a beautiful relationship with his patients! He is an honest dentist which is very hard to find. He's staff is also amazing, Sandra the dental assistant is the best, she knows you by name and always greets with a smile and a hug. Wouldn't change Dr D for anything, I wish he was more in the office but I will work around his schedule just to get treated by such professionalism and dedication.
Pamela RobinsonAltman
4 years ago
I have been going to Lifetime for a very long time (over 10 years) - always wonderful people - from the front desk to the dentists themselves. I recommend them for any dental work you have.
Carl Scott
4 years ago
Dr. Donato has gone above and beyond his services to help our son jarrett.jarrett is 25 years old ,Down syndrome and needs extensive dental work.medicaid and insurance has sent us to over 12 dentist in last year only to be turned down! DR.DONATO is number one and can do this surgery !Thanks to great staff and their willingness to help, our prayers may be soon answered! Carl Scott our prayers were answered this year.jarrett smiles for first time and eats everything thanks dr donato
EEDG
4 years ago
Awesome experience. I am glad we were referred here by our case manager for my special needs son's dental care needs. Even though we live in Orlando, the drive to Tampa was completely worth it. Our experience at the clinic for the initial evaluation was very pleasing. The staff and Dr. Kroll were not only nice but also professional and efficient. They really made things easy. My son ended up needing several extractions, a deep clean and a couple of filings that were done under general anesthesia at the local hospital. Dr. Donato did an amazing job. Very quick and most of all professional. The office did a great job of following up as well. Our family feels deeply grateful. I recommend this practice greatly.
EEDG
4 years ago
Awesome experience. I am glad we were referred here by our case manager for my special needs son's dental care needs. Even though we live in Orlando, the drive to Tampa was completely worth it. Our experience at the clinic for the initial evaluation was very pleasing. The staff and Dr. Kroll were not only nice but also professional and efficient. They really made things easy. My son ended up needing several extractions, a deep clean and a couple of filings that were done under general anesthesia at the local hospital. Dr. Donato did an amazing job. Very quick and most of all professional. The office did a great job of following up as well. Our family feels deeply grateful. I recommend this practice greatly.