Dental Implants
The Confident Way to Restore Your Smile

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to get a dental implant, let’s skip the textbook version. Think of a dental implant as the closest thing to having your natural tooth back — both in how it looks and how it feels.

At Alpen Implants & Periodontics, Dr. Rachana Hegde has placed hundreds of implants for patients who thought they’d never smile, chew, or laugh comfortably again. The goal isn’t just to “fill a space” — it’s to give you back something that feels like you.

So, what exactly is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that acts like the root of a missing tooth. It’s placed gently into the jawbone, where it fuses naturally with the bone. Once healed, it becomes the foundation for a custom crown, bridge, or denture.

In plain English: the implant does the heavy lifting under the surface, and the visible tooth on top is what gives you your smile back.

Is getting a dental implant painful?

That’s probably the first question every patient asks — and the honest answer is: most people are surprised by how comfortable the process actually is.

Dr. Hegde uses advanced surgical techniques and local anesthesia to make the procedure nearly pain-free. Some mild soreness afterward is normal, but most patients say it’s far easier than they expected — often easier than a tooth extraction.

How long do dental implants last?

When cared for properly, dental implants can last decades — many last a lifetime. Because the implant fuses with your bone, it becomes a permanent part of your mouth. The visible crown might eventually need replacement due to normal wear, but the implant itself is designed to stay put.

Am I a good candidate for implants?

If you’re healthy enough for routine dental treatment and have enough bone to support an implant, the answer is usually yes.

Even if you’ve been told before that you don’t have enough bone, Dr. Hegde’s expertise in bone grafting and tissue regeneration often makes implants possible for patients who were once told they weren’t candidates.What makes implants better than bridges or dentures?

Implants don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support, and they prevent bone loss — something no bridge or denture can do. They also feel more natural. You can bite into an apple, eat corn on the cob, and talk without worrying about slipping or movement.

Patients often say it’s the first time in years they’ve felt “normal” again.

How long does the process take?

Healing time varies, but most implants are completed over several months to allow proper integration with the bone.

Dr. Hegde will review your specific situation and, if possible, discuss immediate or same-day options — though the priority is always long-term success over shortcuts.

How do I take care of my implants?

Treat them just like your natural teeth — brushing twice a day, flossing, and keeping up with regular professional cleanings. Dr. Hegde’s team will show you simple techniques to keep the gums healthy around your implants so they stay strong and stable for years.

Why choose Alpen Implants & Periodontics?

Because implant dentistry is only as good as the hands performing it.
Dr. Hegde isn’t just trained in placing implants — she’s a Periodontist, which means she’s an expert in the gums and bone that support them.

That’s why her patients enjoy results that look natural, feel secure, and stand the test of time. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, you’ll never feel rushed, pressured, or left wondering what’s next.

At Alpen Implants & Periodontics, you’re treated like a person — not a procedure.

Ready to take the next step?

If you’re thinking about dental implants but still have questions, that’s completely normal.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rachana Hegde — she’ll walk you through every option, explain your timeline, and help you make the right decision for your health and smile.

Your future smile could be one visit away.