Ready to replace your missing teeth? If you’re looking for a natural-looking and long-lasting way to replace missing teeth, we’ve got what you need. Dental implants not only look amazing but also perform better than other options.
Dr. Angie Hedlund, a trusted restorative dentist in Alpharetta, GA, is proud to offer dental implant treatment. Implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth because they blend right in with your smile and feel just like the real thing.
Dental implants are super versatile. They can:
- Replace teeth lost to gum disease.
- Fix damage from an accident.
- Take the place of teeth that are completely missing.
No matter your situation, we’ll help you figure out if implants are right for you. Our restorative dentistry treatments can help, even if you’ve had other work done before.
The Dental Implant Process
A dental implant procedure consists of three parts. First, an oral surgeon will insert the implant posts into your jawbone during surgery. Then, your dentist attaches an implant abutment to the replacement tooth roots after they heal.
After the abutment is in place, your dentist will secure custom ceramic prosthetic teeth or a dental crown. This process will give you a false tooth or a new set of teeth that looks, feels, and works like natural teeth. Whether or not you are the best candidate for dental implants, our office can help you. We can also help you if you had work done in the past but now want dental implants.
Getting dental implants happens in a few steps:
- An oral surgeon places the titanium implant post into your jawbone during a simple procedure. We will let your mouth heal over a couple of months.
- Once the implant site heals, your dentist attaches a small piece called an abutment to the post. The abutment will hold the final restoration on the post. The restoration can be a crown, bridge, or full dentures.
- When the custom crown, bridge, or denture is ready, Dr. Hedlund will secure it to the abutment. The replacement teeth will look and feel totally natural.
By the end of the process, you’ll have a permanent solution that works and looks just like real teeth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime! Good oral hygiene, regular checkups, and avoiding habits like smoking will keep your implants in great shape for years to come
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants might cost more upfront, but they’re a long-term investment with major benefits, like:
- A permanent fix for missing teeth.
- Keeping your jawbone strong and healthy.
- A natural look and feel.
- No special diets, so eat what you love!
- No worries about shifting or falling out.
- Helping your face keep its natural shape.
Patients with dental implants can eat whatever they want and don’t need any extra dental care. These teeth work just like your real ones, so you can treat them the same. They make your smile look great and give you confidence. Plus, they last a long time and keep your jawbone healthy, stopping your face from sagging.
Dental implants do more than just replace teeth. They also improve your overall oral health. Implants help:
- Restore your ability to chew and speak clearly.
- Prevent jawbone loss.
- Keep the rest of your teeth in place.
- Improve your smile and facial appearance.
The titanium post acts like a natural tooth root, giving your new teeth a solid and stable foundation.
Types of Dental Implants
We offer different kinds of implants to meet various needs. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Endosteal Implants: These are the most common type. The surgeon places them directly into the jawbone. They’re ideal for most patients and provide a strong base for replacement teeth.
- Subperiosteal Implants: These sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum. They’re best for patients that don’t have enough jawbone for a traditional implant.
- Mini Implants: Smaller than regular implants, these are often used as temporary solutions. They’re also for patients who aren’t ready for permanent implants.
Dental Implant FAQs
Since implants are such a popular choice for replacing missing teeth, we get tons of questions about them every day. Our team is here to give you all the answers you need and help you decide if implants are right for you. Feel free to reach out, we’d be happy to chat about the procedure, costs, healing process, or anything else you’re curious about.
What’s the Healing Process like for Dental Implants?
Since getting dental implants involves surgery, the healing process takes a bit longer than other tooth replacement options. After we place the implant, you’ll need about 3-6 months to heal completely. This gives your jawbone and the surrounding tissues enough time to bond with it.
After the surgery, make sure to let your body rest for a faster recovery and proper healing. It might take a while, but the final result is a permanent solution that will stay with you for a long time.
Once that’s done, we attach a small connector called an abutment to the implant. Your gums will need a couple more weeks to adjust before we secure your custom crown or restoration on top. While the whole process can take several months, the result is worth it. You will have a new tooth that feels, looks, and works just like the real thing.
Will Anyone Be Able to Tell I Have a Dental Implant?
Not at all! We create high-quality restorations that are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. They’ll blend right in, so no one will ever know you have an implant.
What Should I Avoid After Getting Dental Implants?
You’ll need to avoid certain foods, especially anything hard, crunchy, sticky, or spicy. This is important for the first few weeks after your implant surgery. You don’t want to irritate your gums and the healing implant. Once your mouth has adjusted, you can get back to enjoying your favorite foods.
How Can I Help My Implant Heal Faster?
The best way to speed up healing is to take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, stick to soft foods for the first week, and drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Icing the area can help reduce swelling. Keeping up with your regular oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing, is key.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most patients are great candidates for dental implants, but there are a few things to consider. You’ll need good overall health, healthy gums, and enough jawbone to support the implant. If you have certain health conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or if you smoke, these factors could affect the success of the procedure.
Does the Procedure Hurt?
Not really! Your oral surgeon will use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you won’t feel anything. You might have some mild discomfort or swelling after the surgery. But most patients manage it with over-the-counter or prescribed medication.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on how many you need, where they’re placed, and whether you need any extra procedures like bone grafting. On average, a single implant can cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Keep in mind, this doesn’t include the cost of the crown or restoration.
We know dental implants are an investment, so we offer financing options to make them more affordable. Be sure to check with your dental insurance provider to see what they cover.
Will I Need a Bone Graft for My Dental Implants?
If you have significant bone loss in your jaw, you might need a bone graft to create a solid foundation for the implant. This is a common procedure, and we’ll evaluate your jawbone to see if it’s necessary. If you do need a graft, it helps ensure your implant is stable and lasts as long as possible.
Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to guide you through the process and help you feel confident about your smile.
Visit Us for Dental Implants in Alpharetta, GA Today
If you’re ready to restore your smile with dental implants, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need a single tooth replaced or a full smile makeover, we’ll create a personalized plan to meet your needs.
Schedule a consultation today with Esthetic Dental Solutions to learn more about tooth replacement options. You can either request an appointment online or call our office at 678-352-1333. We serve patients in Alpharetta, North Point, Roswell, Johns Creek, and surrounding North Fulton County areas.