The Next-Best-Thing to Natural Teeth
When it is impossible to keep your natural teeth, the next-best-thing are dental implants. Over the past twenty years, dental implant technology has evolved to include incredible advancements. Now, dental implants act and look just like natural teeth; in fact, no one will know that your teeth were hand-created in a high-tech lab. They will just see that you have an incredible smile.
Know the Dental Implant Process
There are several key steps to getting dental implants at Belle Meade Family Dentistry in Nashville, TN:
- Call us at (615) 298-2030 to schedule a consultation. We will examine you and determine if you are a candidate for dental implant surgery. If so, we will then talk with you about the cost, and set up your first surgery.
- At the first surgery, we will clean and sanitize the area of your missing tooth. Then, we will surgically embed the titanium-based dental implant post into your mouth. This post rises only to the point of the gum line. It does not jut up above and should not irritate your tongue or cheek. When surgery is complete, you will wait several months to allow the site to heal, and the bone to attach itself to the post.
- At the second surgery, an abutment will be added to the post. This abutment will hold a dental crown. The crown will be made separately by the laboratory located in the upstairs area of our building. Because the crown may not be finished before you leave the office, a temporary crown may be affixed to the abutment until you can return and get your permanent crown.
- At the final appointment, the permanent crown will be attached to the abutment. At this point, your dental implants will be completed, and you can enjoy your new tooth!
Why It Is Important to Replace Missing Teeth
Missing teeth are more than an annoyance; they can also create several dental related problems. Without teeth to stimulate them, the bones of the jaw start to be resorbed. This affects bone density in the site area, as well as changes the contours of the gum line. At the same time, issues may develop such as gum disease and crooked teeth.
From a purely aesthetic viewpoint, missing teeth cause gaps in the mouth. This can make many people feel very embarrassed or self-conscious. A missing tooth or missing teeth can cause speaking and eating to be difficult.
By replacing natural teeth that have been lost with dental implants, anyone who is a candidate for this type of dental procedure can enjoy a healthier smile and better oral wellness.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost associated with dental implants will vary from patient to patient. We recommend that you make a consultation with our dentists at Belle Meade Family Dentistry by calling (615) 298-2030. All fees will be discussed before any work begins.
Want to know more about dental implants? Look and feel your best! Call Belle Meade Family Dentistry, Nashville, TN (615) 298-2030, and ask for an appointment with one of our dentists.