Dental Implants At Decatur Family Dental (Decatur, GA)

Dental implants are permanent solutions for replacing missing teeth, designed to look and function like natural teeth. Decatur Family Dental offers dental implants and other restorative services to patients of all ages to help improve their ability to chew and speak and enhance the appearance of their smiles.

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The Dental Implant Process

The procedure for receiving a dental implant at Decatur Family Dental follows a clear, three-step process:

Consultation & Planning

• An initial dental examination is conducted, which includes digital X-rays and a cone-beam 3D scan to assess the quantity and shape of the jawbone.
• The patient's medical and dental history is reviewed to identify any health factors, such as diabetes, that may affect the procedure.
• If the jawbone is insufficient, a bone grafting procedure may be scheduled. Any remaining fragments of a fractured tooth are also carefully removed.
• Using intraoral scanning or traditional impressions, an accurate digital model is created, which is used to plan the surgical guides and the final crown.

Surgical Placement

• The patient is given a local anesthetic, and sedation is available to ensure comfort during the surgery.
• A small incision is made in the gum to expose the bone, and a guided drill creates a precise opening (osteotomy) for the implant.
• A titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone. It is then covered with a healing cap or the sutured gum tissue. Minimal bone grafting may also be performed at this time.
• Implants in visible areas may have a temporary crown placed to maintain appearance and function during healing.
• Post-operative care involves a soft-food diet and careful oral hygiene. Pain is typically mild.

Osseointegration & Final Restoration

• Over the next three to six months, osseointegration occurs, where the bone cells fuse to the implant's surface, providing strong support.
• Once osseointegration is complete, a minor procedure exposes the implant to attach an abutment, which connects the implant to the crown.
• A custom-designed ceramic crown, matched in color and shape to the surrounding teeth, is bonded to the abutment.

The final implant crown is cared for just like a natural tooth, with daily brushing, flossing, and professional maintenance twice a year, and can last a lifetime.

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Comparing Dental Implants with Other Restorative Options

• Dental Implants
  • Serve as independent tooth replacements that do not compromise neighboring teeth.
  • Surgically placed in the jawbone and integrated over time, helping preserve bone structure.
  • A healing phase is required before a crown, bridge, or denture is placed.
  • After restoration, they behave like your natural teeth. They are maintained with regular brushing, flossing, and professional check-ups every six months.
• Crowns & Bridges
  • Crowns cap and protect damaged teeth; bridges span gaps by anchoring to adjacent crowned teeth.
  • Treatment is typically completed within a few dental appointments.
  • Do not support jawbone preservation, as they rest on existing teeth rather than in the bone.
• Removable Dentures
  • Replace multiple missing teeth using removable acrylic appliances customized for partial or full arches.
  • Suitable for those seeking a non-surgical solution or with significant tooth loss.
  • Nightly removal and cleaning are required; adhesives may be required for stability.
  • Do not prevent jawbone loss, as they do not stimulate bone through the jaw.

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Technology and Features

Decatur Family Dental uses modern imaging and materials to enhance the accuracy of implant treatment. Key tools include:

• 3D Imaging (Cone Beam CT): Cone-beam CT imaging or 3D X-ray is usually used for implant planning. This provides a detailed image of how much jawbone exists and where the nerves are, helping the dentist plan where the implant will go.
• Use of Digital Scanners: Digital scanners take an accurate 3D impression of the teeth and gums without messy impressions. Digital models are used to create implant crowns and surgical guides.
• Implant material: Top-quality titanium or ceramic (zirconia) is commonly used for implants. These biocompatible posts are designed to have surfaces that will facilitate osseous attachment.

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Meet the Doctor

Dr. Dahlia Levine is the founder and lead dentist at Decatur Family Dental. A native of Decatur, she earned her DMD degree as valedictorian from the Dental College of Georgia. She completed an advanced residency with specialized training in implant dentistry, periodontics, sedation dentistry, and oral surgery.

She has been named a "Top Dentist" by Atlanta Magazine and the Atlanta Jewish Times. She received the American Red Cross Educator Hero Award for her volunteer work improving cancer patients' oral health. She also researched (in partnership with Georgia Tech) the connection between gum disease and systemic health. When outside of the clinical world, she does not treat patients. Dr. Levine is an adjunct faculty member at the Dental College of Georgia and lectures at study clubs to teach others.

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Insurance and Payment

Decatur Family Dental is an out-of-network provider for all insurance plans. While the practice accepts patients with insurance and will file claims on their behalf, patients are required to pay the full fee at the time of service. The insurance company then reimburses the patient directly. The office accepts cash, credit, HSA/FSA cards, and CareCredit for financing options.

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Contact and Schedule an Appointment

If you have missing teeth or deteriorating restorations, call today to find out if you could be a candidate for dental implants at Decatur Family Dental. Call our office to make an appointment or ask questions about dental implants.