Dental Implants

Transform Your Smile

Discover the Art and Science of Dental Implants

Dental implants are recommended to patients with the following concerns:
Dental-Implant-Service

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium “root” that is placed into the jaw bone to support a crown to form an artifical tooth. Titanium is a biocompatible material and does not cause allergic reactions. The implant is inserted into the jaw bone under anesthesia, and the bone grows onto the implant and integrates with the surface.
Implant supported teeth look, feel, and function like natural teeth. When the natural roots of teeth are lost, bone resorption in the jaws may occur. These problems can be avoided by inserting dental implants.

Precision and Expertise

Specialized Skills & Professional Care for Oral Surgery

The benefits of dental implants

The mouth is restored as closely as possible to its natural state. By replacing the entire tooth, including the root, it is possible to replicate the function of natural teeth, with a strong, stable foundation that allows comfortable biting and chewing. In addition, nothing in the mouth looks, or feels artificial.

dental implant treatment plan

Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery

Dr. Patel will evaluate your remaining teeth and gums before dental implant surgery to make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you are in good health, have healthy gums and adequate bone structure to support dental implants, he will develop a customized dental implant treatment plan for you.

If bone structure is inadequate but you meet other criteria for dental implant surgery, Dr. Patel may recommend bone grafting to improve bone support and facilitate dental implants.

In the weeks prior to dental implant surgery, Dr. Patel will provide you with specific pre- and post-operative care instructions. Smoking cessation will be necessary. You should also avoid consuming alcohol a week before your dental implant surgery.

Piedmont-Oral-Implant-Services

Dental implant surgery

The Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant surgery typically involves two surgical procedures, and local anesthesia is typically used for both procedures. The entire treatment process takes 4-6 months, and each surgical procedure may take an hour or more to perform. If multiple dental implants are placed, the time needed for surgery will increase.

The first dental implant procedure involves placing a small titanium post known as a tooth root implant in the bone socket of the tooth being replaced. This post will eventually anchor your new tooth to your gums. Under certain situations, Dr. Patel will coordinate with your dentist so that a temporary crown will be placed on your tooth root implant while you wait to complete the second phase of dental implant surgery.

Within 3-4 months

Healing from your first dental implant procedure should be complete, and the second stage of surgery may be performed. Dr. Patel will make a minimal incision to expose the implant. He will attach a small screw that will sit slightly above your gum tissue. After approximately 2 weeks of healing, you will follow up with your dentist who will complete the remaining portion of your treatment. Your dentist will fabricate the permanent crown, which will be attached to the implant.

For more information about dental implants at Piedmont Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel, please call (404) 947-8399.

Scroll to Top