22
Mar
How safe are dental implants near me in Alpharetta, GA?
At the Atlanta Center for Dental Health, we work with our patients to help them achieve healthy bodies and beautiful smiles. When tooth loss becomes a concern, and our patients are searching for a dentist “near me” that offers solutions, Alpharetta, GA dentist, Dr. Bradley Hepler, can provide a solution that many patients love: dental implants.
Dental implants explained
Dr. Bradley Hepler describes dental implants as tooth root replacements. These titanium posts are surgically placed into the bone of the jaw to function as a tooth root once did. The versatile posts can be restored in a variety of ways, and they can replace one or more teeth. The most common use of dental implants is to replace a single tooth, covering the implant with a crown to restore the smile. However, dental implants can also anchor a bridge or stabilize full dentures. The versatility of dental implants makes them an advantageous solution for many of our patients.
How safe are dental implants?
Dental implants have been used for years for restoring the smile. Made of titanium, which does not corrode, these restorations are highly desirable and safe. The metal is biocompatible with the body and provides an opportunity for osseointegration – the growth of bone around the implant to hold it in place. Bone loss in the jaw is a serious concern, so with the placement of a dental implant, patients can stimulate the natural growth of bone and maintain their youthful appearance. This is often a concern with denture wearers who will gradually lose bone and experience a “sunken in” look to their lower facial area. Dental implants keep this from happening.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants are:
- A smart investment
- A permanent solution
- A strong, durable option for tooth replacement
- Versatile
- Biocompatible
- Great at maintaining bone structure
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Dr. Bradley Hepler encourages patients to book a consultation appointment and initial evaluation to determine if they are appropriate candidates for dental implants. Implants do require patients to have enough bone in the jaw for successful integration. Without enough bone, the surgical procedure could fail, and the dental implant can become loose and unable to stimulate osseointegration. At this point, patients would need to consider an alternative based on their specific needs and desires.
What are some other options instead of dental implants?
If patients are not candidates for dental implants or are considering an alternative solution, they are welcome to ask about dentures and bridges. Dentures include full or partial dentures, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced. Bridges may be a solution for patients who are missing one or a few teeth in a row, as these ceramic restorations can be bonded into place within the smile. Bridges are a great middle-of-the-road solution for patients who want something more permanent than a removable denture but less expensive than dental implants.
What is the procedure required for dental implants?
Patients who are ready to have dental implants placed are educated on the surgical process required to achieve their new smile. The dentist will take x-rays to determine the appropriate placement of the dental implants prior to surgery. Patients are properly sedated and anesthetized before their treatment to ensure optimum comfort. The dentist will drill a precise hole into the bone of the jaw and then place the dental implant. The gum tissue is sutured, and patients may have a temporary restoration over their dental implant for a few weeks as the process of osseointegration occurs. Once the implant is firmly in the bone of the jaw, a final restoration is placed on the implant, whether it is a denture, bridge, or dental crown.
Learn about the advantages of dental implants
Contact Dr. Bradley Hepler and his team of professionals at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health today to make an appointment with his friendly front office staff for a visit. His practice can be reached at (866) 687-1992 and is located at 11190 Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta, GA. Call today and get started on your journey to a more beautiful smile!
Dr. Bradley R. Hepler
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Dr. Bradley R. Hepler, founder of the Atlanta Center for Dental Health, is a distinguished dentist with over 20 years of experience. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry and completed advanced training in comprehensive dentistry in San Diego, obtaining certification in Advanced Education in General Dentistry. A dedicated member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. Hepler is also a founding member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health and a certified Fastbraces and Invisalign provider. His commitment to ongoing education ensures top-notch care for his patients.
