Are You a Candidate for Metal-Free Dental Implants in Melbourne, FL?
Losing a tooth can deeply affect your confidence, your ability to chew, and your overall health. When considering tooth replacement, finding a solution that aligns with your biological needs is just as important as restoring your smile’s appearance. At Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC, our skilled team is dedicated to providing advanced, biocompatible restorative care. If you are looking for a highly trusted dentist’s office near you, our Melbourne, FL location offers specialized implant dentistry tailored to your unique wellness goals.
Led by Dr. Lee Sheldon, Dr. Matt Sheldon, and Dr. Michel Furtado—a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology—our dentist office has proudly served Brevard County since 1980 and has been voted Best of Brevard for the eleventh year. We are proud to offer Metal-Free Dental Implants made from zirconia, a durable and holistic alternative to traditional titanium.
If you want to discover if this biocompatible option is right for you, reach out to our friendly dental team in Melbourne by calling us at (321) 259-8000.
What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Metal-Free Implants?
Traditional titanium has long been the standard for dental implants, but it is not the ideal choice for everyone. Zirconia is a high-strength ceramic that functions just like a natural tooth root, providing excellent stability without the use of metal. You may be an ideal candidate for metal-free implants if you fall into any of the following categories:
Patients with Metal Allergies or Sensitivities 
One of the most common reasons patients seek out zirconia implants is a known allergy to titanium or other trace metals. Placing metal into the jawbone of a sensitive patient can cause inflammation, discomfort, or implant failure. Because zirconia is a highly biocompatible ceramic, it is completely hypoallergenic. It integrates seamlessly with the human body, making it the safest and most comfortable choice for individuals with hypersensitivities.
Individuals Preferring Holistic Dentistry
Many patients today are taking a closer look at the materials used in their medical and dental treatments. If you prefer a holistic approach to your health and wish to avoid having metallic components permanently placed in your body, zirconia implants are an excellent candidate for your restorative needs. They offer a natural, health-focused way to rebuild your smile.
Patients with Thin or Receding Gums
Aesthetics play a massive role in dental restoration. Some patients have naturally thin gum tissue or are prone to gum recession. With traditional titanium implants, this can sometimes lead to a dark gray line becoming visible near the gum margin over time. Because zirconia is naturally bright white—closely resembling the color of natural tooth roots—it remains completely invisible. This makes it an exceptional choice for patients replacing teeth in the highly visible “smile zone.”
To schedule an evaluation and see if zirconia fits your needs, reach out by calling us at (321) 259-8000.
Prerequisites for Metal-Free Implant Success
While zirconia implants offer incredible benefits, successful placement requires a healthy oral foundation. During your first visit, our doctors will conduct a thorough examination to ensure you meet the necessary health requirements.
Sufficient Jawbone Density
An implant needs a strong foundation to anchor securely. When a tooth is missing for a long period, the underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate. Our doctors utilize high-tech dentistry, including 3D X-rays and imaging technology, to evaluate your bone density in precise detail. If you have been told you do not have enough bone for an implant, do not lose hope. As a highly trained periodontist, Dr. Furtado can perform advanced bone grafting procedures to build up the area, making you a viable candidate for metal-free tooth replacement.
Healthy Gums Free of Infection
Periodontal health is crucial for the longevity of any implant. Active gum disease can spread to the tissues surrounding the new implant, causing it to fail. If you have periodontitis, our practice will address the infection first. We specialize in advanced periodontal treatment and are among fewer than 100 offices in the USA to use the Perioscope. This slender periodontal endoscope allows our doctors to treat severe gum disease non-surgically in nearly every case, creating a healthy environment for your new zirconia implant.
If you are dealing with failing teeth or gum issues, take the first step toward a restored smile by calling us at (321) 259-8000.
The Consultation Process for Metal-Free Implants
At Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC, we believe that predictable, long-lasting results begin with meticulous planning. We do not rely on guesswork. When you visit our dentists near you, our doctors use the most recent breakthroughs in technology to plan your implant placement ahead of time.
By utilizing our 3D imaging software, we create a computer-designed surgical guide for your procedure. This ensures the zirconia implant is placed at the exact angle and depth required for optimal stability and aesthetics. This approach makes for less invasive surgery, reduces the amount of time in the chair, and leads to a faster, more comfortable recovery.
We also understand that dental work can feel daunting. Our advanced procedures are designed to fully restore your dental health in a comfortable, friendly, and relaxing environment. For patients who experience dental anxiety, we offer comfort & IV sedation. This allows you to sleep peacefully through your procedure and wake up with your new smile well underway.
To experience our state-of-the-art approach to holistic implant dentistry, reach out by calling us at (321) 259-8000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are metal-free implants as strong as traditional titanium implants?
Yes. Zirconia is an incredibly durable, high-strength ceramic designed to withstand the heavy forces of biting and chewing. With excellent oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings at our Melbourne office, your zirconia implants can last a lifetime, providing the same structural integrity as traditional titanium posts.
Can I get a metal-free implant if I have an autoimmune condition?
For many patients with autoimmune conditions or compromised immune systems, minimizing inflammation and allergic responses is critical. Because zirconia is highly biocompatible and hypoallergenic, it is often considered the safest tooth replacement option for these individuals. Our doctors will carefully review your complete medical history during your consultation to ensure this approach is safe for you.
How do I care for my zirconia dental implant?
You care for your metal-free implant exactly as you would a natural tooth. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily to remove plaque from the gum line, and maintain your regular checkups with our dental team. Zirconia actually has a very smooth surface that naturally resists plaque accumulation, making it easier to keep the surrounding gum tissue healthy.
Schedule Your Metal-Free Implant Consultation in Melbourne, FL
Rebuilding your smile is a major decision, and choosing the right team is just as important as choosing the right materials. At Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC, our guiding principles are skill, experience, technology, and integrity. We are proud to serve Melbourne and the nearby cities of Palm Bay, Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Titusville, and Viera.
When you trust our practice to restore your oral health, you benefit from the collaborative expertise of Dr. Lee Sheldon, Dr. Matt Sheldon, and board-certified periodontist Dr. Michel Furtado. We combine specialized periodontal care, precise computer-guided implant placement, and holistic zirconia options to give you a natural, beautiful smile that you can be proud of for years to come.
Do not let metal sensitivities or failing teeth hold you back from living life to the fullest. Contact Us today or call our office to schedule your comprehensive metal-free implant consultation.