Kingston TN
More than 178 million people in America have lost at least one permanent tooth, according to data from the American College of Prosthodontists. That is well over half of the entire population of the United States. If you are one of the people with a missing permanent tooth, you probably have explored options to replace that tooth, and there is no better option in restorative dentistry than a dental implant. Today on the blog, your restorative dentist in Kingston shares what to expect if you want to get an implant to replace your missing tooth.
What is the dental implant process?
Choosing to get an implant to restore your smile in Kingston is a big decision. The process takes several months to complete.
Step 1: The consultation
At this appointment, you meet with your implant dentist, who determines whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Some of the qualifying factors that make someone a good choice for an implant include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Not currently suffering from gum disease
- Having sufficient density of the jawbone to support the implant
- If you smoke, you will need to quit the habit prior to any work on the implant, as this can hinder the healing process and even cause implant failure.
Step 2: The placement of the implant
The key component of a dental implant is the implant screw itself, a post made of a durable metal such as titanium. This implant post is inserted surgically into the jawbone where the missing tooth previously resided. Remember that oral surgery is still surgery and carries with it some semblance of risk. That is why it is important to choose a dentist with experience and training in procedures of this type. After the implant is inserted, you will need to heal for several months as your jawbone fuses with the implant screw. Once healing is complete, the implant post provides an extremely stable base for your replacement tooth. The implant screw also stimulates the jawbone in the same way that the tooth root previously did; that means you will not experience deterioration of the jawbone, an otherwise inevitable consequence of living with tooth loss.
Step 3: Finishing the process
After the implant has fused with your jawbone, you return to our office to receive a dental crown. This replaces the exterior of your missing tooth. The crown is tailored to match the appearance and color of your other teeth. Your crown could be made of any one of a variety of materials. LakeView Dental Arts typically installs crowns made of emax or zirconium for teeth where a greater biting force will be exerted. If the tooth was in a more visually prominent spot, your Kingston restorative dentist may opt for crowns made entirely of dental porcelain.
Implant dentistry in Kingston, Tennessee
You do not have to keep living with missing teeth. Enjoy the benefits of a dental implant. No other method of tooth replacement can match an implant in terms of look, feel and function. If you are ready to learn more about the implant procedure at LakeView Dental Arts, schedule a consultation with Dr. Walmsley or Dr. Walker today. Just call (865) 376-9687 or complete our appointment request form online.
