Sweet Spot Smiles is pleased to offer complete implant dentistry and dental implant restorations to repair and maintain your smile. From tooth extractions to placing dental implants and creating customized dental restorations, our skilled dentist can provide thorough care every step of the way. Depending on your case, we might also consult with other doctors to ensure your care is crafted for you. We invite you to contact our office at 770-285-2864 today to learn more about dental implants in Locust Grove, Georgia, and to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Linda King.
If you have lost teeth, dental implants could be the solution you need to regain your oral health and smile. Implant dentistry is considered the ideal option for replacing missing teeth, as it works to replace the entire tooth, including your tooth roots. Dental implants consist of two main parts – the implant post and the implant restoration.
Dental Implant Placement
Your implant treatment begins with the placement of your implant post. This post replaces the roots of your missing tooth and performs all the same functions as your natural tooth roots, working to stimulate your supporting bone, keeping it strong and healthy and providing your smile with a stable foundation. Implant posts are made of titanium or another biocompatible material and are surgically inserted into your jawbone at the site of the missing tooth or teeth. Following your implant placement procedure, there will be a period of healing to allow the post to integrate with the bone.
Dental Implant Restorations
After your healing period, our dentist will work with you to create a custom-made restoration. This restoration caps the implant post, replacing the visible portions of your teeth to finish your treatment and give you back full oral function as well as a beautiful smile. Depending on how many teeth you are replacing, your implant restoration could be a dental crown, a dental bridge or a denture. Your restoration will be carefully crafted to fit your smile perfectly, giving you a beautiful and long-lasting result.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Implants offer many benefits, including:
- A long-lasting restoration – when properly cared for with regular brushing and flossing and routine dental visits, implants can last for a lifetime. You may need to replace the implant restoration atop the post if it wears out, but the implant itself should continue to function properly as long as you take good care of your oral health.
- A solution which promotes your oral health and function – unlike other tooth replacement options, a dental implant replaces the entire tooth and will perform the same functions as your natural teeth. This promotes your long-term oral health and function as well as giving you back a beautiful smile.
- Preservation of your natural tooth structure – implants are anchored by posts in your jawbone, not by other teeth. This means that the teeth adjacent to the implant will not require any preparation or removal of tooth structure. Instead, the health, strength and integrity of your teeth and surrounding bone and gums will be preserved. Implants even prevent the jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss, which in turn prevents changes in the shape of your face and overall appearance.
- Permanently anchored in your mouth – tooth replacement options such as dentures are not permanently anchored in your mouth, and many people report slippage or “floating” of their dentures. This is not the case with implants, as they are firmly anchored in your mouth through the placement of the implant posts.
- Improved quality of life – you will once again be able to eat, speak and smile with complete confidence.
Candidates for Implant Dentistry
Anyone who has lost teeth is a candidate for dental implants. Our dentist will examine your mouth and discuss your oral health and treatment options with you to determine if implants are indeed the right solution for you. Please keep in mind that if you have tooth decay, gum disease or another pre-existing condition, you will need to complete treatment for that issue before you can receive a dental implant.
To find out more about dental implants and schedule your personal consultation, give us a call today!
FAQ
What are dental implants?
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Dental implants are prosthetic teeth consisting of an artificial tooth root and a custom-made restoration. Implants are made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium, and are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Dental implants offer a long-lasting and highly stable solution for your smile, promoting better oral health by preventing bone loss and preserving the structure of your natural teeth.
How long do dental implants last?
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Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth replacement. With proper care, including regular dental exams and cleanings, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like smoking, implants can last a lifetime. The prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the implant itself will remain intact as long as it is properly cared for.
Are dental implants painful?
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The dental implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you feel minimal discomfort during the surgery. Post-surgery, you may experience some swelling and mild pain, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients report that the discomfort is less than expected and that the benefits of having a stable, natural-looking tooth far outweigh the temporary discomfort.
How do I care for my dental implants?
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Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss regularly, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash. Regular dental visits for cleanings and exams are also essential. Our dentist may also recommend special tools like an interdental brush or water flosser to help keep the area around the implant clean.
Are dental implants right for everyone?
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Dental implants are an option for anyone missing teeth, but not everyone is an ideal candidate. Good candidates typically have healthy gums, sufficient jawbone density to support the implant, and are in overall good health. Certain conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking, may affect the success of the implant. Dr. King will evaluate your specific situation to determine if implants are the best option for you.
How long does the dental implant process take?
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The dental implant process usually takes several months from start to finish. After the implant is placed, it typically takes three to six months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Once this is complete, our dentist will attach the prosthetic tooth. The entire process timeline can vary depending on individual healing times and any additional procedures needed, such as bone grafting. You will receive an estimate of your treatment timeline following your initial consultation.
What areas do you serve?
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Dr. King provides dental implants in Locust Grove, Georgia, and to patients in the surrounding areas, including East Griffin, Flovilla, Hampton, Jackson, Jenkinsburg, Jonesboro, Lovejoy, McDonough, Milner, Orchard Hill, Stockbridge, and Sunny Side, Georgia. Call today to schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist and learn if dental implants are right for you!