At Designing Smiles Dentistry, Dr. Apel is a VA-certified dentist providing specialized care to veterans in the Melbourne, FL, area. At our practice, we recognize that veterans face unique dental challenges. For instance, a recent report indicated that 42% of veterans experience gum issues or tooth loss, compared to 27% of nonveterans. We’re committed to ensuring our heroes receive the care they deserve.
Navigating VA benefits can be complex, but our team is here to simplify the process and help you regain a healthy, confident smile. We have a history of helping veterans access the dental services they need, and we’re eager to extend that support to you.
Your VA Dentist: Determining Your Eligibility
For veterans with a 100% service-connected disability (Class I), the VA offers the option to seek dental care from external providers like us at Designing Smiles Dentistry. This option opens up a range of treatments without time limits or constraints. Our team will assist you in obtaining VA approval for your dental care, ensuring you receive prompt, personalized treatment that aligns with your specific needs.
Selecting your own dental provider has many advantages. It lets you choose a dentist who meets your goals and preferences, ensuring high-quality, customized care. This personal selection can instill confidence and comfort in receiving dental treatment. You’ll also be able to develop a long-term relationship with your provider.
Unlike VA facilities, which may have longer wait times, choosing your own provider also facilitates faster access to treatment, preventing the worsening of dental conditions over time.
Don’t Wait to Get the Dental Care You Need
At Designing Smiles Dentistry, we prioritize prompt and expert dental care to prevent unnecessary delays and complications. Delayed dental care can lead to a series of issues that can affect your overall health. Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a severe infection that affects the soft tissues surrounding your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to the deterioration of the bone supporting the teeth, resulting in tooth loss.
Gum disease, although common, is largely preventable. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits prevents periodontitis and improves treatment outcomes. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice daily, flossing, and regular dental checkups. Consistent dental care helps prevent and treat periodontitis and other conditions. It’s essential for safeguarding the health and longevity of your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Treatment Options With VA Dentist Dr. Apel
As your chosen VA dentist, we offer a comprehensive range of dental services. This includes access to a full spectrum of diagnostic, preventative, restorative, and surgical dental procedures:
Exams and X-rays
Beginning with a thorough oral exam, we assess your dental health to determine the appropriate course of treatment. A comprehensive exam includes meticulous cleaning, X-rays, and an evaluation of your teeth and gums.
Fillings
Tooth decay is a common dental issue that is more prevalent among veterans than nonveterans. When bacteria in plaque erode your enamel, it can cause cavities. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can prevent this. However, a dental filling is a reliable method for restoring the tooth’s strength and function.
Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns offer protection by capping a damaged or broken tooth. Customized to fit precisely, they safeguard against further damage and restore the tooth’s structure.
When multiple teeth are lost, dental bridges can fill the spaces. A bridge is a row of teeth that closes a gap from tooth loss. They rely on healthy adjacent teeth or dental implants for support. This restoration not only restores bite function but also unifies your smile.
Dentures
For significant tooth loss, dentures offer a solution to restore your bite. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth on the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures are designed to replace some missing teeth. Custom, removable dental appliances are available, but we also provide mini implant stabilized dentures for enhanced stability.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants represent a cutting-edge solution in tooth replacement, offering a less invasive and quicker alternative to traditional implants. Ideal for those seeking immediate results, these smaller implants are skillfully placed with minimal discomfort, rapidly restoring both function and aesthetics. Their compact size allows for a simpler procedure, significantly reducing recovery time. This innovative approach provides patients with an efficient path to regain their smile, enhancing both chewing capability and overall dental appearance with minimal disruption to their daily lives.
Designing Smiles Dentistry is a Mini Dental Implant Center of America. Dr. Apel is proud to specialize in mini implant solutions, offering a less invasive, quicker solution for tooth replacement.
Visit a VA Dentist Today
Understanding and utilizing your VA dental benefits doesn’t have to be a challenge. At your FREE consultation, we’ll review your VA benefits and dental needs to ensure you receive the appropriate care. Designing Smiles Dentistry is dedicated to providing a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of all veterans. Contact us today to connect with your new VA dentist.
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