The Most Natural Way to Replace Missing Teeth
Missing teeth affect much more than appearance. They can make chewing difficult, cause neighboring teeth to shift and lead to gradual bone loss in the jaw. Dental implants are the closest replacement to a natural tooth available today. They restore the tooth above the gumline and also the root below it.
At Gilreath Family Dentistry, every dental implant is carefully planned using 3D CT imaging and placed with guided implant surgery for exceptional precision. Whether a patient is missing one tooth or several, our doctors design implant solutions that look natural, function like real teeth and are built to last. Patients throughout Marietta and Cobb County trust our practice for advanced, comfortable implant dentistry.
Book a Dental Implant ConsultationWhat Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a three-part restoration designed to replace a missing tooth from root to crown:
- The implant: A small, biocompatible post placed in the jawbone that acts as a new tooth root.
- The abutment: A connector that attaches to the implant and supports the visible tooth.
- The restoration: A custom crown or bridge designed to match the shape, size and shade of the natural teeth.
Over time, the implant fuses with the surrounding jawbone, creating a strong, stable foundation that allows patients to bite, chew and smile with confidence.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults who are missing one or more teeth can be candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates:
- Are missing one tooth, several teeth or a section of teeth
- Have healthy gums or are willing to treat gum disease first
- Have enough jawbone to support an implant, or can be evaluated for options when bone is limited
- Are in good general health
- Are committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
Patients who use tobacco or have certain medical conditions can often still receive implants after a thorough evaluation. Our doctors review each patient’s health history and 3D imaging to confirm candidacy.
Dental Implant Solutions at Gilreath Family Dentistry
Single Tooth Implants
Replace one missing tooth with an implant and custom crown that blends seamlessly with the natural smile, with no need to alter neighboring teeth.
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Multiple Tooth Implants
Replace several missing teeth with individual implants or an implant-supported bridge for a strong, stable and natural-looking result.
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Guided Implant Surgery
Digitally planned, surgically guided implant placement for greater precision, comfort and predictable long-term results.
Learn MoreYour Dental Implant Journey at Our Marietta Office
Getting a dental implant at Gilreath Family Dentistry is a carefully planned process designed for comfort and lasting success:
Consultation and 3D Imaging
Our doctors examine the mouth, review health history and take a 3D CT scan to evaluate bone, nerves and sinuses.
Digital Treatment Planning
Using digital scans and planning software, our doctors map the precise placement of each implant and design a custom surgical guide.
Guided Implant Placement
The implant is placed with the surgical guide under local anesthesia for a precise, comfortable procedure.
Healing and Integration
Over the following weeks, the implant fuses with the jawbone to create a strong foundation.
Custom Restoration
Once healing is complete, a natural-looking crown or bridge is designed using our digital workflow. In many cases, it’s crafted in our office with CEREC technology.
Long-Term Care
Regular checkups and cleanings help keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy for years to come.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone that once supported it no longer receives stimulation from chewing. Over time, that bone begins to shrink. Leaving a gap untreated can lead to:
- Neighboring teeth drifting or tipping into the empty space
- Changes in the bite that strain the remaining teeth and jaw
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- Gradual bone loss that can change the appearance of the face
- Increased risk of gum disease around shifted teeth
Because dental implants replace the tooth root, they help stimulate and preserve the jawbone. That makes them a smart long-term investment in oral health.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Look and feel natural: Custom crowns are designed to match the surrounding teeth.
- Restore full chewing ability: Enjoy favorite foods with confidence.
- Protect jawbone health: Implants help preserve the bone that supports the face and remaining teeth.
- Preserve neighboring teeth: Unlike traditional bridges, a single implant doesn’t require reshaping healthy adjacent teeth.
- Long-lasting results: With proper care, dental implants can last for decades.
- Easy to care for: Brush and floss implants just like natural teeth.
- Stable and secure: Implants never slip or shift when eating or speaking.
Insurance and Financing for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a long-term investment in oral health, function and confidence. Many dental insurance plans now provide partial coverage for implants, crowns or related procedures. Gilreath Family Dentistry accepts most insurance plans, files claims on behalf of our patients and reviews coverage before treatment begins. We also accept HSA and FSA funds and offer financing through CareCredit, subject to approval, so patients can spread the cost over time.
Financial PolicyRestore Your Complete Smile With Dental Implants
A missing tooth doesn’t have to be permanent. Contact Gilreath Family Dentistry at 200 White St NW in Marietta to schedule a dental implant consultation and discover how guided implant surgery can restore your smile.
Schedule an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
About Dental Implants
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades and often a lifetime. The implant itself fuses with the jawbone, while the crown on top may eventually need replacement after many years of normal wear. Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits and avoiding tobacco all help implants last as long as possible.
Most patients are surprised by how comfortable dental implant placement is. The area is fully numbed with local anesthesia, and guided implant surgery allows for a precise, efficient procedure. Some mild soreness afterward is normal and is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The timeline varies for each patient. After the implant is placed, it typically needs a few months to fuse with the jawbone before the final crown or bridge is attached. Our doctors provide a personalized timeline during the consultation based on each patient’s bone health and treatment plan.
The cost of dental implants depends on the number of teeth being replaced, the type of restoration and whether any additional procedures are needed. Gilreath Family Dentistry provides a clear, detailed cost estimate after the consultation and 3D imaging. Insurance, HSA, FSA and CareCredit financing can help make treatment more manageable.
There is no upper age limit for dental implants. Good overall health, healthy gums and adequate jawbone matter more than age. Many older adults successfully replace missing teeth with implants and enjoy improved chewing and confidence.
Guided implant surgery uses 3D CT imaging and digital planning software to determine the ideal position of each implant before surgery. A custom surgical guide then transfers that plan into the mouth, allowing the implant to be placed with exceptional precision. Gilreath Family Dentistry places all implants using this approach.
Yes. Multiple missing teeth can be replaced with individual implants or with an implant-supported bridge, which uses fewer implants to support several replacement teeth. Our doctors recommend the best approach based on the number and location of missing teeth and the available bone.
Many dental insurance plans now offer partial coverage for dental implants or related procedures, such as the crown. Gilreath Family Dentistry accepts most insurance plans, reviews coverage before treatment and files claims for our patients. HSA, FSA and CareCredit financing are also available.