Given all the options available, choosing the right option to replace missing teeth can feel overwhelming. But at Flax Dental, we make it simple! Dr. Hugh Flax, an experienced Atlanta dentist, offers dental implants, the top choice in restorative dentistry. These high-quality implants act like natural tooth roots, providing strength and lasting results.
Dr. Flax loves helping patients restore their smiles with dental implants. He is accredited by the International Congress of Implantology and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Keep reading to learn why dental implants may be the best solution for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial roots made from materials like titanium placed into your jawbone. These implants hold replacement teeth, called dental crowns, in place, making them a stable and secure option. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants look and feel like natural teeth and offer a long-lasting solution.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants have several advantages that make them a great choice for replacing missing teeth:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are designed to look just like your real teeth. They match the size, color, and shape of your existing teeth. Implants blend in perfectly and give you a natural smile.
- Stable and Secure: One of the best things about dental implants is that they are securely attached to your jawbone. This means you don’t have to worry about them shifting or moving around while you eat or speak, unlike dentures that can sometimes slip.
- Bone Health: When you lose a tooth, your jawbone can weaken. Dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, which prevents further bone loss and helps maintain your facial structure. This is important for keeping your face looking healthy and youthful.
- Long-Lasting: Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. This makes them a strong and reliable solution for tooth replacement so you can enjoy your smile for many years.
- Easy Maintenance: Taking care of dental implants is simple. You don’t need any special products or procedures—just brush and floss them like your natural teeth. Regular visits to the dentist for check-ups also keep your implants and mouth healthy.
The Dental Implants Process at Flax Dental
Knowing the steps of the dental implant process can help you feel prepared and decide if it’s the right option.
Initial Consultation
At your first visit, Dr. Flax will examine your mouth to see if dental implants are the best option. This includes a complete exam, X-rays, and impressions of your teeth and jaw.
Treatment Plan
Once it’s clear that implants are right for you, Dr. Flax will create a plan tailored to your needs. This plan considers how many teeth are missing, your bone health, and your overall dental health.
Dental Implant Placement
The next step is placing the implants into your jawbone. First, you’ll receive local anesthesia. Then, the oral surgeon carefully inserts the implant posts in the correct spots. After the surgery, the implants will need time to fuse with your jawbone, which takes several months.
Healing and Abutment Placement
During this phase, the implants naturally bond with the bone, creating a strong foundation for the new teeth. This step is crucial for the long-term success of your implants.
Once the implants are fully fused, Dr. Flax will attach abutments to them. These connect the implants to your new teeth, whether you have a crown, bridge, or full denture.
Final Step
Finally, we attach custom-made crowns to the abutments. These crowns are designed to match your natural teeth, restoring the function and look of your smile.
With dental implants, you can regain the ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently, knowing your new teeth look and feel like the real thing.
Teeth-in-a-Day Implants in Sandy Springs, GA
Don’t let missing or damaged teeth hold you back any longer. With our skilled team and modern dental office, we can plan, create, and place your implants all in one visit.
Are You a Candidate for Single-Visit Implants? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, Teeth-in-a-Day might be a great choice for you:
- Do you have missing or damaged teeth?
- Do you want results fast?
- Are you looking for a modern alternative to dentures?
- Do you not have a condition that could slow bone healing?
Teeth-in-a-Day uses a special implant bridge that maximizes your jawbone. With advanced 3D technology, we can place up to eight implants in one visit and attach a temporary set of teeth. After about six months of healing, Dr. Flax will place your permanent teeth on the implants.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read answers to your questions about dental implants and same-day implants in Atlanta and Sandy Springs, GA:
Who can get dental implants?
Most people can get dental implants! We often recommend this treatment for anyone who:
- Has damaged or missing teeth
- Needs a tooth pulled
- Is unhappy with or doesn’t want dentures
Few factors that could affect whether you can get dental implants. For example, smoking can impact the healing process, and certain medical conditions that affect bone growth might make it more difficult for the implants to succeed. However, age does not impact your ability to get implants. You can get implants if you are in good oral health.
Does the procedure hurt?
During the implant surgery, you’ll be under local anesthesia so that you won’t feel pain. After the procedure, you may have some discomfort and swelling, but over-the-counter pain medicine should help.
How long do implants last?
Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. They can last a lifetime with good care, routine check-ups, daily brushing and flossing, and a healthy diet. After many years, you may need to replace crowns, bridges, or dentures. However, the implant posts are permanent. They will stay in your mouth like natural tooth roots.
How long does the process take?
The total time it takes to get a dental implant can vary from person to person. Several factors can influence how long the process takes. For example, it might take a bit longer if you need a bone graft, gum disease treatment, or fillings. In addition, the complexity of your case can also affect the timeline. Some people may have more complicated dental issues that require additional steps before the implant can be placed.
On average, the entire dental implant process can take several months to a year. This includes time for initial consultations, any necessary treatments, and healing periods.
Can you get an extraction and implant in the same visit?
Yes, it is possible for some patients to have a tooth extraction and a dental implant placed during the same visit! This can be a convenient option if you need to have a damaged or unhealthy tooth removed and want to replace it with an implant right away.
During your consultation, Dr. Flax will evaluate your specific situation. He will look at your dental health and discuss your options with you. If it’s determined that your mouth is ready for the extraction and the implant, Dr. Flax will explain the procedure and what you can expect.
Having both procedures done in one visit can save you time and help you start enjoying your new smile sooner! Just be sure to ask any questions you have during your consultation so you feel comfortable and informed about your treatment.
Will I need a bone graft?
A bone graft may be needed if your jawbone isn’t strong enough to support the implant. However, Dr. Flax often uses a special placement technique that uses your existing bone. He will take X-rays to see if you have lost jaw bone.
Who performs the Teeth-in-a-Day surgery?
If your case is complex, Dr. Flax may refer you to a specialist to ensure you get the best results. Dr. Flax has training from Dr. Thomas Balshi, who developed a breakthrough implant technique that makes same-day placement possible.
If you think Teeth-in-a-Day could be the right solution, call us at 470-635-3604 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Flax has helped many patients regain their smiles, even those who thought it impossible.
Get a Lasting Tooth Restoration
Are you interested in replacing one or more missing teeth? Call 470-635-3604 for dental implants in Sandy Springs and Atlanta, GA. You can also schedule an appointment with Dr. Flax online.