Kingston TN
Tooth loss is an inevitable part of the aging process for many individuals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 10% of Americans between 65 and 74 years old have lost all of their permanent teeth. For those over the age of 75, that percentage doubles. For many years, replacing missing teeth entailed using dentures or having a dental bridge installed. Advances in technology have yielded other, more attractive options that function at a higher level. Today on the blog, learn how Dr. Joseph Walmsley at LakeView Dental Arts can install a beautiful, durable dental implant to replace a lost tooth.
Here are the facts on dental implants
An implant is considered the elite tooth replacement option in restorative dentistry. A dental implant consists of three components: the implant itself, a titanium screw that is embedded surgically into the jawbone; a crown to replace the exterior of the tooth, which is made with beautiful dental porcelain and matched in shape and color to look like your other natural healthy teeth; and an abutment, which connects the implant to the crown.
An implant is considered permanent because the titanium screw is extremely durable and resistant to decay. It also is the only method of tooth replacement that prevents bone deterioration, a long-term consequence of tooth loss due to the lack of stimulation from the tooth root. An implant screw replaces the root, however, reviving that continuing stimulation of the jawbone.
Receiving an implant from your Kingston implant dentist requires two appointments
At the initial appointment, the implant screw is inserted into the jawbone and a temporary restoration is placed on top of the abutment. As you heal from this procedure, the implant fuses with your jawbone. This provides a sturdy anchor and means your implant will not slip or shift the way dentures can. Once healing is complete, you return for the follow-up appointment, where the permanent dental crown is placed on top of the implant.
It is important to remember that the actual insertion of an implant is a surgical procedure. Make sure you choose a dentist with experience and training in the specific knowledge of implant dentistry, as well as oral surgery.
Many people shy away from dental implants because of cost
The individual needs of every patient make the cost of any treatment a case-by-case matter, but in general, receiving a single dental implant can cost multiple thousands of dollars. Making matters worse for your wallet, many dental insurance plans will not cover the cost of an implant. However, because of their permanence and the fact they look and feel more like natural teeth, implants often are considered the ideal treatment option and worth the significant cost.
We believe that cost should never be the deciding factor when determining the level of care. We accept several different methods of payment and also work with third-party financing partners, who make treatments available to our patients that are paid off in convenient monthly payments that fit into almost any household budget.
Dental implants in Kingston, Tennessee
Millions of people in America receive dental implants each year. Are you ready to learn more? The next step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Walmsley at LakeView Dental Arts. At this appointment, he will review your dental history and evaluate your current oral health to determine if you are a good candidate for an implant. Schedule your appointment online today or call our office in Kingston at (865) 376-9687.
