Dental Implants in Downtown Chattanooga
Implants: A Long-Lasting Teeth Replacement Solution
Over time, missing teeth can influence nearby teeth and the bone that once supported the tooth. At McKinney Dental, Dr. Josh McKinney provides dental implants in Downtown Chattanooga for patients who want to restore function and replace missing teeth. As part of our dental services, we evaluate your oral health, bone support, and treatment goals before recommending care. We also explain what implant treatment involves so you can understand whether it is an appropriate option for you.
Dental Implants at McKinney Dental in Chattanooga, TN
Why Consider Dental Implants?
After tooth loss, nearby teeth may shift, and the jawbone can shrink over time. An implant is a titanium post placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. We check your gums for disease and use dental X-rays to assess the bone available to support an implant. We also review your medical history to identify factors that may affect healing. If you have gum disease or bone loss, we’ll discuss whether treatment or a bone graft may be needed first.
A single implant can support a custom crown to replace one missing tooth. An implant-supported bridge may replace several teeth, while a full-arch restoration may replace a complete row of teeth. We’ll discuss which options may suit your oral health, bone support, and treatment goals. With good home care and regular visits, implants can last for many years, though results vary.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Comfort & Functionality: Dental implants look, feel, and work exactly like the teeth you were born with. This completely restores your mouth’s full range of functions, like speaking, eating, and smiling.
Natural Appearance: We design your crown to blend with the shape, size, and shade of nearby teeth. Our goal is a natural-looking smile that feels comfortable.
Preservation of Jawbone Health: Because dental implants are made from biocompatible materials, they fuse with the jawbone. This holds bone loss at bay and helps to maintain your overall facial and jawline structure.
The Dental Implant Process
1. Initial Placement
Once you decide that dental implants are for you, we begin with an exam and dental X-rays to plan implant placement. Dr. McKinney reviews your gum and bone health and explains any care needed before surgery. During placement, he makes a small opening in the gum and positions the titanium implant in the jawbone. We’ll explain your treatment plan, including any extra care or specialist involvement that may be needed.
2. Healing & Osseointegration
Following the surgery, your implant will need time to bond with the jawbone. This is called “osseointegration.” This crucial step typically takes 3-6 months, ensuring that the implant integrates with your mouth permanently. We’ll schedule follow-up visits during this time to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
3. Crown Completion
Once the implant has bonded with the bone, we prepare and attach your custom crown. A small connector called an abutment joins the crown to the implant. We match the crown to nearby teeth for a natural look. Costs depend on the number of implants, X-rays, restoration type, and any extra care, such as bone grafting. We’ll discuss these factors and your proposed treatment plan after your exam.
Ready to Learn More? Schedule a Consultation Today!
At McKinney Dental, we want you to have clear answers before choosing implant treatment. We offer complimentary implant consultations. Dr. McKinney will assess your oral health, answer your questions, and discuss suitable options. Call (423) 266-1714 to request your visit.
Restore your smile and improve your quality of life with dental implants in Chattanooga.
McKinney Dental is here to provide expert care from start to finish. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Josh – and get ready for a healthier, more confident smile!
