Kingston TN
If you’ve been living with a lost tooth or teeth, you need to educate yourself about dental implants. An implant is a virtually permanent method of tooth replacement that also promotes jawbone health and safeguards your future oral hygiene. Implants are not a viable treatment choice for everyone, though. Today on the blog, your implant dentist in Kingston examines whether or not dental implants are right for you.
What to expect from a dental implant procedure
Receiving a dental implant is a big decision. The key part of the process is the placement of the implant screw. This screw, which is made of a durable metal such as titanium, is inserted surgically into the jawbone where the missing tooth resided in the mouth. Next, your jawbone fuses with the implant screw. This process of healing can take several months. Once the fusion is complete, you return to your implant dentist to have the tooth replacement topped with a crown; an abutment is attached to the top of the impact screw and connected to the crown. Upon completion, an implant offers unparalleled look, feel and function.
Factors to consider before receiving a dental implant
- How many missing teeth do you have? A standard dental implant replaces a single missing tooth. If you have several missing teeth or have experienced significant tooth loss, then dentures may be a better treatment choice for you. Replacing multiple teeth or an entire dental arch of teeth with an individual implant for each missing tooth would take too long and cost too much to undertake reasonably.
- What is your budget? At LakeView Dental Arts, we believe that finances never should be the deciding factor in the care you receive. That being said, a dental implant is one of the more expensive options in the field of restorative dentistry. because of the superior quality of the materials used, as well as the high level of skill needed to place the implant screw. You want to make sure you have the budget for the procedure. LakeView Dental Arts offers payment plans, as well as financing through CareCredit.
- Are you willing to make lifestyle changes if necessary? If you smoke or vape, you should quit the habit at least a few weeks prior to the placement of the implant screw. Nicotine hinders the healing process and constricts blood vessels, which could lead to complications up to and including the failure of the implant. You also should be in good overall health before receiving an implant.
- Do you have gum disease? If you have gum disease, this can compromise the implant. As such, any existing gum disease infection will need to be treated before work on an implant procedure can begin.
- Are you pregnant? A dental implant is not recommended for women who are expectant mothers.
- Are you at least 18 years old? LakeView Dental Arts will not use dental implants on pediatric patients.
Implant dentistry in Kingston, Tennessee
We believe a dental implant is the best way you can replace a missing tooth. Consider that an implant is a permanent fix with easy maintenance that prevents the deterioration of the jawbone that otherwise is inevitable when living with tooth loss. When you opt to replace your missing tooth with a dental implant, you’re making a commitment to your oral health. To take the next step, schedule a consultation at LakeView Dental Arts. At this meeting, Dr. James Walmsley or Dr. Josh Walker will review your medical history, dental records and current oral condition to assess your candidacy for an implant. Make an appointment today; just call (865) 376-9687 or contact us online.
