dental implants
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They are small, titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, a dental crown, bridge, or denture can be attached, restoring both function and appearance. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, helping you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Why do I need a Dental Implant?
Missing teeth can affect more than your smile—they can lead to bone loss, shifting teeth, bite problems, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Dental implants prevent these issues by maintaining jawbone integrity and supporting surrounding teeth. They also offer a long-term, reliable solution compared to traditional dentures or bridges, improving both oral health and quality of life.
Implant specialists
Dr. Shivam Patel
Dr. Shivam Patel completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago where he received his Bachelors degree in Biological Sciences. Dr. Patel completed his doctorate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry.
Following graduation from dental school, he completed a comprehensive training in implant dentistry at the AAID Maxicourse in Atlanta, GA in 2012. Dr. Patel accepted a position at the Atlanta Center for Restorative Dentistry and worked alongside Dr. Edward Mills, one of the world's leading dental educators.
In 2016, he received he became an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
Dr. Patel is a leader and educator and serves as the IT and Communications Chairman for the Advanced Dental Implant Studies Program. The group is composed of clinicians from all across the country that strive to be on the cutting edge of implant, restorative, and regenerative dentistry. Dr. Patel has also served as the Logistics Chairman for the Summit on Advanced Dental Implant Studies.Dr. Patel is an active member of the American Dental Association , Chicago Dental Society , American Association of Implant Dentistry, and Academy of General Dentistry. When not in the office, Dr. Patel loves to travel and spend time with his family
Dr. Gerel Emgushova
Dr. Gerel Emgushova completed her undergraduate studies at the Pennsylvania State University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience. She then continued her education at the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry where she completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree with Magna Cum Laude Honor. Upon graduation, Dr. Emgushova was awarded the Academy of General Dentistry Clinical Excellence Award.
Dr. Emgushova then completed a fellowship at the National Institute of Health (NIH)-Craniofacial and Dental Clinic where she worked with immunocompromised and pediatric patients. During her tenure she received special training on patients with Autism, Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Dentogenesis imperfecta, and has presented research at multiple national Autism Meetings.
Dr. Emgushova provides the best care by keeping up with the ever changing world of dentistry through Continuing Education. While working as a general dentist, Dr. Emgushova discovered her love for surgical dentistry and decided to continue her education. Dr. Emgushova completed an implant surgical program at the Misch Resnik Implant Institute and received her Fellowship in Implant Dentistry. She has been treating patients of Lakemoor Dental of Hainesville for 8 years now. And the best reward for her hard work is to see patients and families come back and see her year after year.
When she is not doing dentistry, Dr. Emgushova spends her time with her husband and two sons. Her interests include cooking, traveling and being a soccer mom.
What makes an Implant Specialist different from a General Dentist?
An implant specialist has advanced training beyond dental school in placing and restoring dental implants, including complex cases and bone procedures. While general dentists provide routine care, specialists focus on precision, planning, and long-term implant success, ensuring safer procedures and lasting results.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures
Both dental implants and dentures can improve oral health, function, and confidence. Choosing the right option depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and personal preferences, and your dentist can help guide the decision.
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Stability and Comfort
Dental implants are anchored into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or full-arch restorations. Dentures rest on the gums and can be removable, offering flexibility and a non-surgical option.
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Bone Health and Longevity
Implants can help maintain jawbone density over time, while dentures do not prevent natural bone changes. However, dentures are a reliable solution for patients who may not be candidates for surgery or want a less invasive option.
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Appearance and Function
Implants closely mimic the look and function of natural teeth, supporting chewing and speech. Dentures can also restore appearance and bite function, and modern designs make them more comfortable and natural-looking than ever.
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Maintenance and Lifespan
Implants typically require routine oral hygiene and regular check-ups, with the potential to last many years. Dentures require daily cleaning and occasional adjustments or relining but remain an effective long-term solution for many patients.
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Dental Implant Procedure: Step by Step​
Dental implants are a modern, long-lasting solution for missing teeth. At Lakemoor Dental, Dr. Patel and Dr. Emgushova use advanced technology and years of expertise to ensure your implant procedure is efficient, comfortable, and successful.
1. Bone Grafting (If Needed)
If your jawbone needs additional support, a bone graft will be placed during the first surgical appointment and allowed to heal before the implant is inserted.
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2. Implant Placement
A small titanium screw is placed into your jawbone to serve as a stable foundation for your new tooth. A healing cap is attached to promote proper gum and bone healing.
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3. Healing Period
The implant requires 3 to 9 months to fully integrate with the jawbone, ensuring strength and stability similar to a natural tooth.
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4. Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant. This piece connects the implant to your permanent crown.
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5. Crown Placement
A custom-made dental crown is placed on the abutment, carefully matched to your natural teeth for perfect color, shape, and bite. Your new tooth functions just like a natural one—eat, brush, and floss as usual.
