693 President Pl STE 101, Smyrna, TN 37167
Strong, Natural-Looking Dental Implants
Missing teeth can impact your ability to eat, speak, and feel confident in your smile. Dental implants provide a stable and long-term solution designed to restore both function and appearance. At Dove Family Dentistry - Smyrna, we offer implant solutions that are carefully planned to support your oral health and help you regain comfort in everyday activities.
What is Dental Implants
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Many people use the term “dental implant” to describe both the implant itself and the restoration attached to it. Implants are often recommended for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, gum disease, or other reasons and are looking for an alternative to removable options. At Dove Family Dentistry - Smyrna, we help determine whether implants are the right choice for your needs.
Types of Dental Implants
There are different types of dental implants available, depending on your oral condition and bone structure:
Subperiosteal Implants
Placed on top of the jawbone and supported by a metal framework that extends through the gums. This option may be used for patients who do not have enough bone height for traditional implants and cannot wear standard dentures comfortably or securely for long-term use.
Endosteal Implants
The most commonly used type, placed directly into the jawbone. These may be in the form of screws, cylinders, or blades and can support one or more replacement teeth. They are often suitable for patients currently using bridges or removable dentures.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer several functional and aesthetic advantages:
- Natural Function: Allows you to chew and speak with ease
- Improved Appearance: Designed to look and feel like natural teeth
- Tooth Support: Reduces pressure on surrounding natural teeth
- Bone Preservation: Helps maintain jawbone structure over time
- Easy Maintenance: Can be cared for like natural teeth
- Long-Term Solution: Typically lasts longer than other tooth replacement options
Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant process is usually completed in stages over a period of time to ensure proper healing and long-term success:
- Evaluation & Imaging: X-rays and scans are taken to determine the ideal placement of the implant.
- Implant Placement: The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, and anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
- Healing Phase: Over the next few months, the bone gradually bonds with the implant, creating a secure foundation.
- Preparation for Restoration: Once healed, the area is prepared to support the replacement tooth or teeth.
- Custom Restoration Creation: Impressions are taken to design the artificial tooth or teeth for a natural fit.
- Final Placement: The completed restoration is attached to the implant, restoring full function and appearance.
FAQs About Dental Implants
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth by providing a strong foundation for artificial teeth.