Dental Implants

Missing teeth can leave you unhappy with how your smile looks, as well as cause a host of oral health issues if left untreated.

Tired of hiding your smile because of missing teeth? Dental implants do more than just restore your teeth: they support your overall health.

Learn how dental implants from Family Dentistry & Prosthodontic in Merritt Island, FL, can give you something to smile about.
 

What Are Dental Implants?
 

A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root to support various restorations, such as dentures, crowns, and bridges. These implant-supported restorations replace missing teeth to restore the health, function, and appearance of your smile. 

Unlike many other practices, we also offer posts made of medical-grade ceramic. This provides a great option for our implant patients who prefer not to place metal in their bodies. 

All-on-4 Dental Implants

For patients who may not qualify for traditional implant-supported dentures, our practice offers All-on-4® dental implants. This method involves using four implant posts versus six to eight. Two of the four posts are placed at a strategic angle to maximize existing bone material. In many cases, All-on-4 patients do not have to undergo preparatory bone grafting.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

Don't Live With the Effects of Tooth Loss Call Our Merritt Island, FL, Dental Practice Today!

Not only can tooth loss be embarrassing, but it can also impact your ability to eat and speak properly, which can affect your overall health and diet. Fortunately, you don't have to suffer because of missing teeth. Using advanced, state-of-the-art technology, our dentists in Merritt Island can accurately diagnose and treat your oral health issues and give you a beautiful and fully functioning smile with implants.

Whether you are missing a single tooth or all of your teeth, our team is here to help you with custom treatment options to fit your unique dental needs with implants and custom restorations that look just like natural teeth. Don't live life with limited oral function. Call us or reach out to us online today.

(321) 459-2444

Older woman with dental implants biting into an apple
"As a new client I was pleasantly surprised at the atmosphere of the office. Warm, welcoming, and beautiful. When I met Dr Schmid he was kind and took time to listen to my concerns and answer all my questions. When I left I felt more than relieved to finally have found a dentist office in the area."
Jay Wayne

The Extraordinary Benefits of Dental Implants 

The most advanced dental restoration is no substitute for your natural teeth, but an implant-supported restoration is the next best option. With proper care, an implant can provide a lifetime of benefits.

Boosted Oral Health

Implants act as bionic tooth roots by providing the necessary signals to your jawbone, stopping further atrophy, and restoring your dental health. Implants are titanium or ceramic posts to which a restoration such as a crown, bridge, or denture is directly anchored to your jawbone so that you can enjoy a fully functional, symmetrical smile.

Increased Stability

Dental implants are constructed of advanced materials such as titanium and medical-grade ceramic to give your new implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture unmatched stability. Furthermore, because they are anchored directly into the jaw, there is a reduced risk of unexpected sliding or shifting. 

Preserve Jawbone Density

Losing teeth can have a significant impact on your appearance due to weakened bone tissue. The roots of a tooth stimulate the jaw in a way that maintains bone density. Without them, the jaw can begin to deteriorate and lead to a sunken facial appearance. Implants are the only dental treatment that can halt and even reverse this side effect of tooth loss.

Improved Self-Esteem

Missing teeth leave gaps in your smile and can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. After implant placement, we can provide a stunning restoration such as a crown, denture, or bridge that is indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Patients can enjoy all the benefits of dental implants while feeling confident about their smiles.
We work with a trusted local dental lab to maximize your treatment benefits. The lab technicians often visit our office to ensure a natural appearance and a great fit for each and every restoration.

Unmatched Bone Health Benefits

Implants are the only proven treatment option to stop and prevent the bone loss that occurs with even a single missing tooth. In some cases, it can even reverse the effects of tooth loss. Additionally, when you receive implants in a timely manner, you may not require preparatory treatments like bone grafting later. Made of high-quality materials like titanium and medical-grade ceramic, implants can last you a lifetime when cared for properly, making them a worthwhile investment in your oral health.

Dental implants

Untreated Tooth Loss Can Lead to Further Complications

If you have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth as a result of periodontal disease, facial trauma, or tooth decay, you may be at risk of future oral health complications. Missing teeth can also cause serious overall health concerns such as poor diet and malnutrition.

To help patients regain the health and aesthetics of their smiles, Dr. Wilkhu, Dr. Cork, and Dr. Schmid can place and restore dental implants at our dental office in Merritt Island, FL

Illustration of a dental implant.
Dental implants consist of three parts: an implant, an abutment, and a custom restoration.

A Dentistry Practice Dedicated to Your Smile

Are you ready to dramatically improve the form and function of your smile while enhancing your quality of life with dental implants? Whatever your dental needs may be, our team prides itself on offering life-changing solutions.

Whether you need to replace a missing tooth with a crown, a few adjacent teeth with a bridge, or an entire arch with an implant-supported denture, our dentists can help restore your smile.

To learn more about how we can restore your dental health with the help of dental implants, request a consultation at our Merritt Island, FL, office today by contacting us online or by calling:

Family Dentistry & Prosthodontics waiting area

"Awesome, caring and amazing experience."

1

Victoria Robinson

Merritt Island, FL

2024

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Awesome, caring and amazing experience....best DDS in Cocoa Beach..thank you so much for resolving my dental issue

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Ashley Biasetti

Merritt Island, FL

2024

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Dr. Schmid is the best! He’s very detailed and dedicated to his work. I live in Viera, there are a few options closer to here but I’d rather drive to Merritt Island and have Dr. Schmid because I truly trust his work.

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A Dental Office Designed for Comfort

Nitrous Oxide

While we have a 98% success rate for dental implants, we understand that the procedure may make some patients nervous. We offer safe and effective nitrous oxide sedation to induce a state of calmness and relaxation. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide involves wearing a mask during treatment and the effects wear off as soon as the implant procedure is over.

Amenities

We strive to make your dental visit as enjoyable as possible. We have Netflix in every treatment room of our office and headphones so you can dive into your favorite shows. If there's anything we can do to make your visit more pleasant, our staff is more than happy to try to accommodate.

Advanced Technology and Techniques

For patients in Merritt Island, FL, living with the challenges of a missing tooth, Family Dentistry & Prosthodontics can provide solutions to even the most complex cases with the help of an implant-supported restoration. Our office features state-of-the-art technology not found in other practices in the area in order to provide our patients with the best dental care available.

Advanced tools such as cone beam imaging allow our dentists to place guided implants. The resulting higher degree of accuracy leads to a higher success rate. Our ultimate goal is to provide you with optimal oral health. For patients affected by the detrimental effects of tooth loss, there is no better treatment than dental implants.

cone beam scanner

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Good Overall Health

Patients must be in good overall health to qualify for implants. Certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled autoimmune disorders can increase the risk of complications. Patients must also have good oral health and be committed to following an at-home dental care routine and attending regular checkups with our Merritt Island, FL, dentists.

Jawbone Density

Dental implants require a strong, sturdy foundation to ensure the best results. Patients with a compromised jawbone may need a bone graft before qualifying for implants. This bone graft will strengthen your jawbone and allow for a successful implant procedure.

No Periodontal Disease

Healthy gums are key when it comes to dental implants. Any signs of gum disease must be addressed and resolved before starting the implant process. Fortunately, our dentists can provide you with a variety of solutions to treat gum disease.

Non-Smoker

Smoking increases the risk of implant failure and can compromise the healing process. Patients must quit several months in advance before being considered for dental implants. For the best results, you should plan to quit for good.

"Highly recommend this dentist office!!"

1

Brian Setters

Merritt Island, FL

2024

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I haven’t been to the dentist in a while!!! So I knew I was gonna need some extensive work done. I took some research to find the right dentist for me as I have great anxiety in going to the doctor or dentist. So after searching on google I chose to go to Dr Wilkhu. I am so happy I did. Tiffany was my hygienist for the day and Dr Cork did my exam and they were awesome! They both made me feel at peace and were very gentle and reassuring that I was in good hands. Thank you to the entire staff from the time I started with phone calls, the front desk, the hygienist and Doctors! You all rock!! Highly recommend this dentist office!!

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sylvia barto

Merritt Island, FL

2024

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I was so very very pleased. I followed Dr Schmid here from where he use to work, he was my dentist there, I found out where he moved to and made an appoint for this cleaning. He is so very nice, and friendly and so are are all the staff, they were all so very friendly. I am glad that I transferred to this dentist office. My visit was great Thank you......

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Worried About the Cost of Treatment? Ask Us About Financing

Our dentistry practice in Merritt Island strives to give patients the care they need, when they need it. Though they may contribute to the cost of your restoration or preparatory procedures like tooth extraction, basic insurance plans do not contribute to the cost of dental implants. Don't worry - we can help make this life-changing procedure a comfortable fit for your budget.

We offer financing through CareCredit®, a third-party lender that allows you to make low-interest and interest-free monthly payments. We encourage you to request a consultation so our team can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. To get started, fill out our online form or call our Merritt Island practice at:

(321) 459-2444

Take a Look at the Dental Implant Process

Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. A single missing tooth can be replaced with a dental implant that supports a dental crown. The abutment is secured to the restoration, firmly holding it in place so the patient doesn't have to worry about it coming loose. They can then enjoy restored dental function, improved aesthetics, and preserved jawbone density.

A Look at the Dental Implant Process

From planning to the placement of your final restoration, the implant process spans several months. Any preparatory procedures such as bone grafting will extend the treatment timeline.
Implants can dramatically improve the form and function of your smile while enhancing your quality of life.
Implants can dramatically improve the form and function of your smile while enhancing your quality of life.

Initial Consultation

To determine your candidacy for dental implants, our dentists will determine the complexity of your case at our Merritt Island practice. Any underlying dental issues like gum disease or low bone density in your jawbone may require treatment before implants can be placed.

First Surgery

Small incisions will be made in your gums to place your dental implants. Once your implants are securely in place, we will suture your gums together and instruct you on how to care for your implants to ensure healthy, efficient healing.

First Healing Period

Over the next four to six months, your implants will fuse with the surrounding bone tissue. This process is known as osseointegration and is vital to the long-term stability and success of your implants.

Abutment Placement

A small connector called an abutment is used to attach your restoration to the implant in your jawbone. During a second surgery, the abutment is connected to your dental implant.

Second Healing Period

After your second surgery, your gums will heal around the abutment. This generally takes far less time than the initial healing period, but can take 12 to 16 weeks.

Attachment of Final Restoration

Once your implants have fully fused to your jawbone, our dentist will place your final crown, bridge, or denture to the implant abutment so you can enjoy the benefits of your newly restored smile.
"Dr Wilku and staff are awesome! They address my issues and excellence service. Highly recommend!" Kelly Collura

Dental Implant Recovery and Aftercare

Here are a few tips to help make your recovery from dental implant surgery as easy as possible.

We use platelet rich plasma–an advanced technique which harnesses the body's own healing abilities–for an easier recovery.

  • Take Medications

    Some discomfort after implant placement is to be expected. Your dentist may prescribe you medications, or you can take over-the-counter pain medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Take these as directed.

  • Use Ice Packs

    Ice is a great way to reduce swelling and pain. Apply ice packs to your cheeks for about 20 minutes at a time. 

  • Eat a Soft Diet

    It is best to stick to a soft diet for about a week after dental implant placement surgery. This will minimize irritations to the implant site, which helps with recovery. 

If you have excessive bleeding, pain that is not easily managed, or excessive swelling, or if you run a fever during your recovery, please call our Merritt Island office immediately so we can promptly address your concerns. 

We Can Help You Through Every Stage of the Implant Process

When you choose Family Dentistry & Prosthodontics, you can rest assured that we will guide you through the entire implant process. We can handle every stage of your treatment and provide you with comprehensive dental care, so you don't have to visit multiple specialists.

Our dentists can perform preparatory treatments like bone grafting and tooth extractions to prepare you for your surgery. We can then place Nobel Biocare™ or Hiossen® implants, which are among the finest dental implants available. After your treatment, our dentists can create lifelike restorations that are color-matched to your teeth, so you can smile confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Aren't traditional restorations cheaper than implants?

Initially, yes; however, it is important to remember that even a single missing tooth can cause the jawbone to deteriorate. This can then require treatments like bone grafting to correct, adding to your overall cost.

Investing in dental implants now can save you time and money later. It is also important to note that implants provide other benefits such as stability. For example, traditional dentures rely on adhesives to remain in place, causing them to occasionally slip while eating or speaking. There are no risks of your denture slipping with implant-supported dentures.

Is implant placement painful?

During placement, you will receive local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. We can even provide nitrous oxide if you're anxious about dental work.

Because it is a surgical procedure, you can expect some discomfort following your surgery, but this can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication and other measures. If you experience pain that cannot be managed at home, call our Merritt Island, FL dental office so we can address it immediately. 

How do I care for my newly restored smile?

One of the many benefits of implant-supported restorations is that you treat them just like natural teeth. Maintain good oral health by brushing with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste for at least two minutes twice a day. Don't forget to floss. Your dentist may remove and clean the restoration during your regular exam and cleaning, but otherwise, your restoration remains secured to the implant post. 

How long do implants and implant-supported restorations last?

Because dental implants are made of durable ceramic and titanium, they are designed to last a lifetime. It is important to keep in mind that your denture, bridge, or crown will wear over time and will eventually need to be replaced. However, with proper care and maintenance, your restoration can last for up to 15 years or more. 

Have more questions?

"Kind, courteous and very informative."

1

margey Lumbard

Merritt Island, FL

2024

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Dr. Steven Schmid is a super prosthodentist! Skilled, creative, versatile, kind & gentle. The office staff and state of the art equipment also add to having the best dental care possible in this area.

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Kevin Gray

Merritt Island, FL

2024

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Doctor Cork was kind, courteous and very informative. Took his time and went over all the options available. Look forward to having my procedures done and walking away with a new and improved smile !!

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Dr. Chan Wilkhu

Family Dentistry & Prosthodontics

Our team of friendly dental professionals can help you and your family enjoy beautiful, healthy smiles for years to come. Our dentists are members of a number of professional associations including:

  • American Dental Association
  • Florida Dental Association
  • International Dental Implant Association

To schedule a consultation at our Merritt Island, FL, office contact us online or call (321) 459-2444.

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