Dental Implants

Dental Implants in Atlanta — A Permanent Solution That Looks and Feels Like Your Own Teeth

Missing teeth affect both function and confidence. Dental implants provide a permanent solution that replaces both the tooth root and crown, restoring natural chewing ability and appearance.

At Siegel, Dolt, & Plaisance Comprehensive Dental Care, we use 3D-guided imaging technology to plan precise implant placement. Dr. Harris Siegel, Dr. Skip Dolt, and Dr. Chas Plaisance handle both the surgical placement and final restoration in our Atlanta office, ensuring continuity of care throughout your treatment.

Dental implants integrate with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. This biological process typically takes several months but results in a restoration that functions like a natural tooth.

Continue reading to learn about candidacy requirements, the placement process, recovery expectations, and treatment costs.

Quick Overview

• Dental implants replace both the tooth root and crown, providing function and appearance similar to natural teeth.
• We use 3D imaging and surgical guides to plan precise implant placement for optimal results.
• The complete treatment process typically takes several months to allow for proper healing and integration.
• Successful implant placement requires adequate bone density and healthy gums.
• Our practice handles all phases of implant treatment, from initial consultation through final restoration.

How We Place Implants at Siegel, Dolt, & Plaisance

Precision begins with detailed imaging. Using cone beam CT imaging, we capture a three-dimensional picture of your jaw, bone density, and the anatomy surrounding the implant site. This scan determines the optimal placement position for long-term stability and function.

From this imaging, we fabricate a custom surgical guide specific to your anatomy. This guide directs the placement procedure, ensuring controlled and precise positioning. The surgical environment is designed to be calm and efficient, with our experienced team managing each step of the process.

All phases of implant treatment are completed at our Atlanta practice. The treatment sequence includes:

• 3D imaging and comprehensive treatment planning
• Custom surgical guide fabrication based on your specific anatomy
• Implant placement performed by our doctors
• Final crown restoration completed in-house

This approach eliminates the need for outside referrals and ensures continuity of care throughout your treatment. Your treatment team remains consistent from initial consultation through final restoration.

What to Expect: Your Implant Timeline

Dental implant treatment occurs in multiple phases over several months. The extended timeline allows for proper healing and osseointegration, which is essential for long-term implant success.

The treatment process follows these phases:

• Initial consultation and imaging: Comprehensive examination, cone beam CT imaging, and treatment planning (1-2 appointments).
• Implant placement surgery: The titanium implant is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia.
• Osseointegration period: The implant integrates with the bone tissue over 3-6 months, depending on individual healing factors.
• Abutment placement: A connector piece is attached to the implant once osseointegration is confirmed.
• Crown fabrication and placement: The final restoration is custom-made and permanently attached to complete treatment.

Treatment duration varies based on individual factors including bone density, healing capacity, and whether additional procedures such as bone grafting are required. Cases requiring bone grafting will extend the timeline by an additional 3-6 months to allow for adequate bone formation before implant placement.

The osseointegration period is a biological process that cannot be accelerated. This healing phase is what allows dental implants to function as stable tooth replacements for many years. For more information about our dental services and technology, please visit our services page.

Recovery: What the Healing Process Actually Looks Like

The healing process following dental implant placement occurs in two distinct phases. During the first few days after surgery, patients typically experience mild swelling, tenderness, and jaw soreness. A soft food diet is required during this initial period, and strenuous physical activity should be avoided. Most patients return to their normal daily activities within three to five days.

The second phase involves osseointegration, where the titanium implant post fuses with the surrounding jawbone tissue. This biological process takes approximately three to six months and is essential for long-term implant stability. During osseointegration, patients generally experience minimal discomfort as the healing occurs naturally below the gum line.

Our team at Siegel, Dolt, & Plaisance provides detailed post-operative instructions and monitors your healing progress throughout the recovery period. We use advanced imaging technology to ensure proper healing before proceeding to the final restoration phase.

For questions about the recovery process or to schedule a consultation, contact our Atlanta office at (404) 634-1277.

Implant Cost, Insurance, and Financing Options

Dental implants represent a significant investment in your oral health. Treatment costs vary based on individual clinical needs and treatment complexity. Several factors determine the total investment:

• The number of implants being placed
• Whether bone grafting is needed to prepare the site
• The type of restoration, whether a single crown, bridge, or full-arch solution
• Additional procedures such as extractions or sinus grafting

We accept and file insurance claims for all major carriers. While we are not in-network providers, many insurance plans provide partial coverage for implant treatment. Coverage typically applies to diagnostic exams, imaging, extractions, and the final crown restoration. The implant post itself may have limited coverage depending on your specific plan benefits.

Our administrative team will verify your insurance benefits and provide a detailed breakdown of expected coverage before treatment begins. This allows you to understand your financial responsibility upfront.

For treatment costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options to help make implant treatment more accessible. Our goal is to ensure that financial considerations do not prevent you from receiving necessary dental care. Contact our office to discuss payment options that work for your situation.

Our Approach to Dental Implant Treatment

Dental implant placement requires careful planning and precise execution. At Siegel, Dolt, & Plaisance, we use established protocols and advanced technology to provide comprehensive implant care.

• 3D-guided treatment planning. We use cone beam CT imaging to map your bone structure in three dimensions before placement. This imaging allows us to position implants for optimal stability and long-term success.
• Comprehensive care in one location. From initial consultation through placement and final restoration, your treatment is completed at our Atlanta practice. Our team maintains continuity throughout your care.
• Individualized treatment planning. Each implant case is planned based on your specific bone density, gum health, bite alignment, and overall oral health. Your treatment plan addresses your particular clinical needs.
• Advanced technology. Our practice uses CEREC technology and cone beam imaging to enhance treatment precision and patient outcomes.

Dr. Skip Dolt has been placing and restoring dental implants since 1996, bringing extensive experience to each case. Our practice maintains a focus on patient comfort and clear communication throughout the treatment process.

Why Patients in Atlanta Choose Siegel & Dolt for Implants

Choosing where to place a permanent part of your smile is a significant decision. Here's what sets this practice apart from other options in Atlanta.

• 3D-guided treatment planning. Implant placement at Siegel & Dolt uses advanced imaging technology to map your bone structure in three dimensions before a single incision is made. That level of precision means the implant is positioned for long-term stability, not just short-term fit.
• Everything happens under one roof. From the initial consultation through placement and the final restoration, you work with the same team throughout. There are no referrals to outside specialists, no fragmented records, and no starting over with a provider who doesn't know your history.
• A treatment plan built around you. Bone density, gum health, bite alignment, and overall oral health all factor into how implants are planned. Your case is reviewed individually, so the approach fits your situation rather than a standard template.

Patients often describe feeling genuinely at ease here, which matters more than it might sound when you're navigating a multi-step procedure. That comfort is built into how the practice operates, not just how it's described.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do dental implants last?

With proper oral hygiene, the titanium implant post can last decades, while the crown restoration may require replacement after 10-15 years.

What level of discomfort should I expect during implant placement?

Implant placement is performed under local anesthesia, with mild to moderate post-operative discomfort that typically subsides within 3-5 days. Patients with dental anxiety can discuss sedation options during their consultation.

What if I have insufficient bone density for implants?

When adequate bone volume is not present, bone grafting procedures can regenerate the necessary foundation for successful implant placement.

Does smoking affect dental implant success?

Tobacco use significantly impacts implant healing and long-term success rates. While not an absolute contraindication, patients are strongly advised to cease tobacco use before and during the healing period to optimize treatment outcomes.

How do implants compare to other tooth replacement options?

Dental implants replace both the tooth root and crown, providing the most natural function and feel. Unlike bridges, implants do not require alteration of adjacent healthy teeth. Compared to removable dentures, implants offer superior stability and chewing efficiency. Each treatment option has specific indications, costs, and timelines that should be discussed during your consultation to determine the most appropriate solution for your needs.

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation

Determining if dental implants are appropriate for your situation requires a thorough evaluation of your oral health, bone density, and treatment goals. At Siegel, Dolt, & Plaisance Comprehensive Dental Care, we provide detailed consultations to assess your candidacy and explain your treatment options.

During your consultation, our team will review your medical history, examine your oral health, and discuss the implant process specific to your case. We use advanced imaging technology to evaluate bone structure and plan precise implant placement.

To schedule your consultation, call (404) 634-1277 or contact us online. Our Atlanta office is located at 2751 Buford Highway NE, Suite 302, Atlanta, GA 30324.