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.
