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Dental Implants
Dental implants are not typically painful during or after the procedure. During the procedure, we ensure the treatment site is thoroughly numb before implanting your root replacement. We also offer sedation dentistry if you’re feeling anxious.
After the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort and swelling during the first week, but this is easily treated with an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Your dental implant journey starts with a consultation, so your Augusta dentist will let you know what to expect and what to do at home to promote prompt healing.
If you experience intense pain or swelling during the healing period, always contact our dental office immediately.
About Dental Implants in Augusta, GA
Dental implants consist of:
- A durable tooth replacement
- An abutment or connector piece
- A restoration, such as a dental crown
Dental implants also include implant-supported prosthetics, such as fixed dentures and bridges.
First, your dentist implants the tooth root replacement, which integrates into the bone. After integration is complete, we attach your abutment and replacement tooth.
Dental implants represent a long-term solution to tooth loss; they can last for decades and sometimes for life.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants in Augusta, GA
For more information or to begin your dental implant journey, call us today.
We are happy to accept third-party financing through CareCredit.
Healing after dental implant placement surgery is typically between three and six months.
During this time, we're allowing your biocompatible dental implant to fully fuse and integrate with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. When your implant is fully integrated with your bone, it is completely stable, just like your tooth root, and ready to support your restoration, a custom porcelain crown.
It is this process that makes dental implants so unique because they are the only procedure that replaces both your tooth and root. This is important because without a root to support, your jawbone begins to deteriorate, which can impact support for your facial structure and neighboring teeth, resulting in more tooth loss.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer several advantages for patients that make them the gold standard in tooth replacement.
- Excellent Aesthetics — A dental implant looks and feels like a natural tooth.
- Superior Function — Chewing and eating are comfortable and easy because your implant is just like a natural tooth.
- Exceptional Longevity — A dental implant can potentially last for a lifetime with the proper care.
- Bone Protection — An implant keeps your jawbone healthy.
- Bite Stabilization — Dental implants protect bite alignment, which promotes jaw joint (TMJ) health.
Would you like to learn more about dental implants in Augusta, GA? Contact West Augusta Dental Associates at (706) 738-8070 and book an evaluation with one of our dentists. We can complete the entire process from start to finish in the comfort of our dental office.
Recovery after dental implant surgery is important for successful healing and long-term success. At West Augusta Dental Associates, we want your dental implants in Augusta, GA, to heal properly and last for decades. Following proper dietary guidelines during your recovery is essential for the best results.
Immediately After Surgery
During the initial healing phase, stick to soft, cool foods that won't irritate the surgical site. Avoid anything that requires excessive chewing or could dislodge the blood clot forming around your implant. Cold foods like smoothies, yogurt, and ice cream can actually help reduce swelling and provide comfort.
Foods to Avoid During Early Recovery
Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can interfere with healing and potentially damage the implant site. Skip items like nuts, chips, popcorn, and hard candies. Spicy foods may cause irritation, while extremely hot beverages can disrupt the healing process. Carbonated drinks should also be avoided as they can cause discomfort and interfere with clot formation.
What You Can Enjoy
Focus on nutrient-rich soft foods that support healing. Warm (not hot) soups, mashed potatoes, and protein smoothies are excellent choices. According to the American Dental Association, maintaining a diet of soft foods and warm soup during the healing process helps ensure proper recovery.
Gradual Return to Normal Diet
As your implant heals and integrates with your jawbone through osseointegration, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods. This process takes time, and we'll guide you through each stage of your recovery.
Questions about your post-implant diet? Call our Augusta dental office at (706) 738-8070 for personalized guidance on your recovery journey.
At West Augusta Dental Associates, we understand that insurance coverage plays a major role in your healthcare decisions. Our practice intentionally remains an out-of-network provider so we can deliver the highest standard of personalized care without insurance companies dictating your treatment.
1. Uncompromised, Patient-Centered Care
Remaining independent allows us to put your health ahead of insurance company mandates. In-network contracts often impose strict limitations on treatment options, affecting key aspects of your visit:
- Time spent with patients: In-network quotas often force rushed, high-volume appointments.
- Treatment options and materials: Network rules may restrict choices to lower-cost or generic alternatives due to insurance restrictions.
- Personalized care plans: Insurance fee schedules often prioritize cost-cutting over your long-term oral health.
By operating independently, your Augusta dentist can recommend treatments based purely on what is best for your unique smile.
2. Transparent Pricing Without Quality Compromises
Insurance networks typically negotiate reduced rates that force practices to shorten appointment times or streamline care to offset costs. We refuse to compromise on your health. West Augusta Dental Associates maintains fair, transparent pricing while ensuring every patient receives the dedicated time, attention, and high-quality materials they deserve.
3. We Still Process Your Dental Insurance
Being an out-of-network practice does not mean you lose your coverage. As a courtesy to our patients, we handle the paperwork for you:
- Claim Filing: We submit all claims directly to your insurance company on your behalf.
- Maximizing Benefits: Most dental plans include out-of-network benefits that cover a significant portion of treatment costs and reimburse you directly.
- Pre-Treatment Estimates: We provide clear cost estimates before any procedure, so you always know what to expect.
Our experienced administrative team is dedicated to helping you understand your benefits and make quality dental care fit your budget.
Have Questions About Your Specific Dental Plan?
We are always here to help you navigate your coverage. If you have questions about using your out-of-network benefits at our practice, please contact our Augusta, GA, dental office at (706) 738-8070. We look forward to providing you with exceptional, uncompromised dental care.
Dental implants in Augusta are the most reliable way to replace missing teeth. They look natural, feel secure, and function like real dental roots. While they’re an excellent solution for many patients, they are, unfortunately, not an automatic solution for everyone. The best way to know is through a personalized evaluation with a qualified implant dentist.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Strong candidates for dental implants typically have healthy gums, adequate jawbone density, and good overall health. These “prerequisites” exist because implants fuse with the jawbone, and sufficient bone and periodontal support are essential for their success. Also, patients with untreated gum disease or certain medical conditions may need additional care before moving forward.
That said, advances in modern dentistry mean more people qualify than ever before. Bone grafting and other preparatory treatments can often make implants possible, even in cases where bone loss has occurred. Dr. Robert Turner carefully evaluates each patient’s oral health, goals, and lifestyle before recommending treatment. For some patients, bridges or dentures may be more appropriate.
Durable Dental Implants in Augusta, GA
If you’re in Augusta and want to learn more about the many benefits of dental implants and other long-lasting tooth replacement options, contact Dr. Robert Turner and the caring and skilled West Augusta Dental team to schedule a consultation.
You finally got tired of living with gaps in your smile, so you chose dental implants to replace your missing teeth. But now that you have them, you want to do everything possible to keep your mouth healthy, right?
Let’s look at how to clean and care for your investment.
Tips for Cleaning and Caring for Dental Implants
There are several simple things you should do to care for your dental implants, including the following:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush for two minutes twice a day. Be gentle around the gumline.
- Carefully floss around your implants or use a water flosser to remove food debris and bacteria.
- Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the harmful bacteria that can lead to decay and other issues.
- Try not to chew on hard objects, including ice, hard candies, pens, and fingernails.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco, as they can affect your gum health.
- Make regular visits to your Augusta dentist for routine exams and cleanings.
Dental Implants in Augusta, GA
When you’re ready to learn more about what dental implants can do for your smile and oral health, we’re here to take your call! At West Augusta Dental Associates, we want you to love what you see when you look in the mirror, and dental implants are a great way to replace your missing teeth.
To schedule a consultation, please contact our office at (706) 738-8070.