Dental implants are small rods or posts made of titanium, which are surgically implanted into your jaw bone and gum tissue in the location where your missing tooth used to be, acting as an artificial tooth root. Then, an implant restoration like a dental crown can be used to replace one missing tooth, or several implants can be used to support dentures or a dental bridge to replace more than one missing tooth. Contact Dogwood Family Dental to explore your options for smile restoration in Cookeville.
Dental implants can last 30+ years with proper care, and also have the unique ability to strengthen and support your jaw bone, preventing it from weakening after tooth loss. They also require minimal special care, and they look and feel completely natural. Dental implants are also very easy to clean, and will never become stained or discolored.
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Getting a dental implant can take up to 6 months or longer. Here’s a quick guide to the process and what to expect.
Once you’ve been approved for an implant and Dr. Taylor has created your implant plan, you’ll come into our office for surgery. Your mouth will be cleaned and numbed, and Dr. Taylor will make an incision into your gums and jaw, place the implant, and then suture the area shut to heal.
You’ll be sent home to heal and recover. It will take about 1-2 weeks to heal from surgery, but it takes between 3-6 months for your implant to bond with your jaw bone (osseointegration).
You’ll come in for several follow-ups as you heal so that Dr. Taylor can check your progress and begin building your implant restoration, like a dental crown. When you’re fully healed, you’ll come back for your final appointment, and your implant restoration will be permanently attached to your implant.
Before you can get a dental implant, you must have good overall oral health. For example, you’ll need to get treatment for gum disease, cavities, and infected or broken teeth. This ensures minimal complications when healing.
Your jaw must be healthy and strong to get an implant. If your jaw is weak because of tooth loss, you may be able to get a bone graft to strengthen it, but you should note that this will add time and expense to your implant treatment.
Smoking can interfere with your healing and even cause implant failure. You should not smoke or use tobacco products of any kind after your implant surgery, so non-smokers are preferred for this treatment.
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us at (931) 528-6536 to speak with our team!
When it comes to long-term solutions for missing teeth, dental implants have proven to be one of the most durable and reliable options. The lifespan of dental implants can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the patient's oral hygiene habits, overall health, and the quality of the post-operative care.
However, under optimal conditions, dental implants can last for many decades. The implanted titanium post, which acts as the new tooth root, can last a lifetime due to its biocompatible nature that allows it to fuse with the jawbone. The crown, or the visible part of the implant, typically lasts 10 to 15 years before it may need replacement due to wear and tear.
It's important to note that regular dental check-ups at Dogwood Family Dental, along with good oral hygiene practices at home, can significantly extend the lifespan of your dental implants.
Yes, dental implants can be done in one day, a procedure commonly referred to as "immediate load" or "same day implants." This method allows Dr. Taylor Enochs Engler to extract the damaged or decayed tooth, insert the implant post, and attach a temporary crown all in a single appointment.
However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for same-day implants. Factors such as the location of the missing tooth, the patient's overall oral health, and the density of the jawbone can all influence whether this treatment option is viable. During your consultation at Dogwood Family Dental, we can determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
Absolutely, dental implants are a healthy solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth. Unlike other restorative options, dental implants don't merely mask the problem; they address the root cause by replacing both the tooth and its root.
This dual-action solution helps to prevent bone loss in the jaw, a common issue that arises when a tooth is missing. By stimulating the jawbone, dental implants can help to maintain the facial structure and prevent the "sunken" look that can occur with bone loss.
Moreover, dental implants are made from biocompatible materials, which means they're designed to work with your body without causing adverse reactions. They function just like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
In terms of oral health, dental implants can be cared for just like your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of your dental implants for many years to come.
Remember, if you're considering dental implants in Cookeville, TN, Dr. Taylor Enochs Engler and the team at Dogwood Family Dental are here to guide you through the process, answering any questions you may have along the way.
The cost of dental implants can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of your case, the number of implants needed, and the specific type of implant used. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 per implant. However, it's important to remember that this is just a ballpark figure. For a more accurate estimate, it's best to consult directly with Dr. Taylor Enochs Engler at Dogwood Family Dental, who can provide a personalized quote based on your unique needs and circumstances. Keep in mind that while dental implants may seem costly upfront, they are a long-term investment in your oral health and can often be more cost-effective than other tooth replacement options in the long run. Additionally, many dental practices offer payment plans or financing options to help make the treatment more accessible.
While the thought of getting dental implants might seem daunting, the procedure itself is typically not painful. This is because it's performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area and prevents you from feeling any discomfort during the surgery. After the procedure, some patients might experience mild soreness or swelling, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and should subside within a few days. Rest assured, Dr. Engler and the team at Dogwood Family Dental are committed to ensuring your comfort throughout the entire process. They will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions and may prescribe pain medication if necessary. Many patients report that the discomfort associated with dental implants is less than they expected and is often comparable to that of a routine tooth extraction.
The healing process following dental implant surgery can vary from person to person, but generally, it takes anywhere from 3 to 6 months. This is the time it takes for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. During this period, it's important to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by Dr. Engler to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, a custom-made crown will be attached to it, completing the restoration. It's worth noting that while the full healing process takes several months, most patients can return to their normal daily activities within a few days after the surgery. The long healing time is necessary to ensure the implant is stable and can support the replacement tooth for years to come.
Dental insurance policies vary widely, and whether or not they cover dental implants can depend on the specifics of your plan. Some insurance companies categorize dental implants as a cosmetic procedure and therefore do not provide coverage, while others may cover a portion of the cost. It's recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand what is and isn't covered under your plan. The team at Dogwood Family Dental is also available to help you navigate your insurance benefits and explore other financing options, if necessary. Even if your insurance doesn't fully cover dental implants, they may cover related procedures such as extractions or bone grafts. Additionally, some dental practices offer in-house savings plans or work with third-party financing companies to make dental implants more affordable for patients without insurance coverage.
