At Designing Smiles Dentistry, we consider it a privilege to serve those who have dedicated themselves to protecting our country. Offering VA dental care is our way of showing gratitude and providing veterans with the focused, compassionate care they deserve. Many veterans face specific dental challenges and may go years without the comprehensive treatment they need. Everyone’s dental journey is different, so we work closely with each individual to ensure their concerns are heard, their needs are prioritized, and their treatment is customized to achieve lasting results.
From routine preventive care to advanced restorative treatments, our VA dental care program is tailored to support each veteran’s well-being. Veterans deserve a dental team that understands their journey and respects their service, and we’re here to provide the care and respect they deserve.
How Veterans Can Qualify for Comprehensive Dental Care
If you have a 100% service-connected disability (Class I), you may qualify for comprehensive dental care through the VA, giving you access to a full range of services tailored to your needs. When the VA can’t provide certain treatments, the VA Community Care Program offers eligible veterans the opportunity to receive care from community providers.
You gain several advantages by selecting your own dental provider through this program. You can choose a dentist who aligns with your goals and preferences, ensuring you receive high-quality, customized care. This flexibility also allows you to develop a long-term relationship with a provider who understands your unique needs.
Another key benefit is quicker access to treatment. VA facilities often experience longer wait times, but choosing a community provider can help reduce delays. This option ensures we promptly address your dental issues so they don’t worsen over time.
At Designing Smiles Dentistry, we’re here to guide you through the VA Community Care process. Our team is here to guide you through every stage, from verifying eligibility and securing VA approvals to coordinating your appointments and treatment. You deserve timely, high-quality dental care, and we’re dedicated to helping you access it smoothly and efficiently.
Preserving Your Oral Health at Designing Smiles Dentistry
In a 2021 study, nearly 2 in 5 veterans rated their oral health as fair or poor. That is roughly 8 million veterans dealing with dental problems. Additionally, 42% of veterans reported gum problems or bone loss around their teeth.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a leading cause of bone loss. It starts with the buildup of plaque along the gumline. If not removed through proper oral hygiene, the plaque hardens into tartar, triggering inflammation in the gums. As the infection worsens, pockets form between teeth and gums, allowing bacteria to attack the bone.
Fortunately, our team can catch the early signs of gum disease and provide the right treatment to stop gum disease in its tracks. Whether you need a deep cleaning to remove that harmful plaque or corrective surgery to restore health to your gums, we’re here to help you get back on track with your dental health.
In cases of advanced gum disease or severe tooth decay, extraction may be necessary to protect your oral health. When periodontitis leads to significant bone and tissue loss, your teeth loosen to the point where they cannot be saved. Similarly, suppose a tooth is badly decayed, and other treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals are no longer viable. In that case, removal becomes the best option to prevent further damage or infection. Dr. Apel carefully evaluates each case, recommending extractions only when necessary. Afterward, he’ll discuss the best options for restoring your smile.
Mini Dental Implants: Restorative Dental Care for Veterans
When restoring a missing tooth is no longer possible, replacement becomes the next step in protecting your oral health. Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace missing teeth. However, not all implants are created equal.
Mini dental implants, for instance, offer a unique and powerful solution. Conventional implants are around 5 millimeters wide, and mini implants are less than 3 millimeters in diameter. This smaller size means Dr. Apel can place them more easily, resulting in a quicker recovery time. Despite their size, mini implants consist of the same strong, biocompatible titanium as traditional implants. They ensure durability and long-term stability.
Because of their streamlined design, mini dental implants provide a sturdy foundation for various restorations, including crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are especially helpful for patients who may not have enough bone mass for conventional implants. We offer mini dental implants because they not only simplify the placement process but also deliver excellent results. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, mini implants restore both your function and confidence, helping you enjoy life with a healthy, complete smile.
Dedicated Dental Care for Veterans: Your Health, Our Priority
At Designing Smiles Dentistry, we’re proud to serve veterans like you, offering the care and attention you deserve. Whether you need preventive treatments, advanced procedures, or restorative options like mini dental implants, we are here to support you through every stage of your dental care. Schedule your free consultation with us today and see how tailored treatment can enhance your comfort, confidence, and well-being. Let’s work together to create lasting results for your smile.
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