Implant Dentistry

What Is Implant Dentistry in Maryville, TN?

Implant dentistry is the branch of dentistry focused on replacing missing teeth with dental implants. A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a replacement root for a missing tooth. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process known as osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture to be securely attached.

Implant dentistry offers several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options like bridges or dentures, including improved comfort, durability, aesthetics, and functionality. The process allows for tooth replacement that looks and feels as natural as your original teeth, giving you the confidence to smile and chew without worry.

Key Implant-Based Solutions Offered at Klein Dental Arts in Maryville, TN

Implant-Supported Dentures

For patients who are missing multiple teeth or an entire arch of teeth, implant-supported dentures offer an innovative solution that combines the security and stability of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on adhesive or suction to stay in place, implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants that are placed directly into the jawbone.

How Implant-Supported Dentures Work

The process for receiving implant-supported dentures typically begins with a consultation and thorough examination. Dr. Todd Klein, DDS and Dr. Blake Reed, DMD will assess the patient's oral health, including bone density, to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. In cases where there is insufficient bone density, bone grafting may be required to ensure that the implants have a strong foundation.

The procedure involves the surgical placement of several dental implants into the jawbone. These implants serve as anchors for the denture, providing a stable base that keeps the denture securely in place. After the implants have fully integrated with the bone (a process that can take several months), the custom-designed denture is attached to the implants.

Implant-supported dentures offer several key benefits:

• Improved stability: Unlike traditional dentures, which can shift or slip, implant-supported dentures remain securely in place, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
• Increased comfort: There is no need for messy adhesives or bulky devices. Implant-supported dentures are custom-made to fit comfortably and securely in the mouth.
• Preserved bone structure: Because the implants stimulate the jawbone, they help prevent bone loss that often occurs when teeth are missing.

Implant-supported dentures can replace either the upper or lower set of teeth or both. They are a great solution for patients who want to restore function and aesthetics without the drawbacks of conventional dentures. Contact us to learn more.

Single-Tooth Dental Implants

For patients who are missing a single tooth, single-tooth dental implants offer a durable, permanent solution that looks and functions just like a natural tooth. This procedure is ideal for those who have lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or other reasons but still have healthy adjacent teeth.

How Single-Tooth Dental Implants Work

The process for a single-tooth dental implant begins with a consultation and comprehensive examination. Dr. Todd Klein, DDS and Dr. Blake Reed, DMD will evaluate the health of the surrounding teeth and gums, as well as the jawbone's ability to support the implant. If necessary, a bone graft can be performed to ensure that there is enough bone volume to support the implant.

Once the patient is deemed a good candidate for the procedure, a titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone. The implant acts as the root of the missing tooth, providing a strong foundation for the replacement crown. Over the next few months, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once the fusion is complete, a custom crown is designed to match the shape, size, and color of the natural teeth. The crown is then attached to the implant post, completing the restoration.

The benefits of a single-tooth implant are significant:

• Natural appearance: The implant post and custom crown are designed to look and feel like a natural tooth, seamlessly blending with the rest of the smile.
• No alteration to adjacent teeth: Unlike traditional bridges, which require the adjacent teeth to be filed down, a single-tooth implant preserves the surrounding teeth and their integrity.
• Long-lasting: With proper care, a single-tooth implant can last for many years, often for a lifetime, making it a cost-effective, permanent solution for tooth replacement.

Single-tooth implants are an excellent choice for individuals who are missing a single tooth and want a reliable, aesthetic, and functional solution.

All-on-4

For patients who are missing an entire arch of teeth (either upper or lower), All-on-4 dental implants offer a revolutionary approach to tooth replacement. This innovative treatment utilizes only four dental implants to support a full set of fixed, non-removable teeth, providing a stable and functional solution for those with significant tooth loss.

How All-on-4 Works

The All-on-4 procedure involves placing four strategically positioned dental implants in the jawbone to anchor a full arch of teeth. The implants are placed at specific angles to maximize support and minimize the need for bone grafting. Once the implants are placed, a temporary set of teeth is attached, allowing patients to leave the office with a full, functional smile.

The key advantage of All-on-4 is its ability to provide a full set of teeth with just four implants, which makes the procedure less invasive, more affordable, and faster than traditional implant-supported dentures. The implants support the arch of teeth without the need for additional implants, reducing the time, cost, and recovery period associated with the procedure.

The benefits of All-on-4 include:

• Quick results: All-on-4 is a faster solution compared to traditional implant procedures, as the patient leaves the office with a full set of teeth on the same day.
• Reduced bone loss: The implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
• Permanent solution: The fixed teeth are secure and permanent, providing a stable and functional replacement for an entire arch of teeth.

All-on-4 is ideal for patients who have significant tooth loss but may not have enough bone density for traditional implants or who want a quicker, more cost-effective solution for full-mouth restoration.

All-on-X

All-on-X is an advanced variation of the All-on-4 technique, offering even more flexibility for patients with severe tooth loss or inadequate bone density. This approach utilizes more than four implants—usually five or six—to provide even greater stability and support for a full arch of replacement teeth.

How All-on-X Works

The All-on-X procedure is similar to All-on-4 but with additional implants placed strategically to accommodate patients with more extensive tooth loss or weaker bone structure. By using more implants, All-on-X increases the stability and functionality of the denture, making it an excellent option for patients who may have been previously told they were not candidates for dental implants.

The benefits of All-on-X include:

• Enhanced stability: More implants provide greater support, resulting in a more stable and secure full arch of teeth.
• Customized treatment: All-on-X can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, whether they have extensive tooth loss or less-than-ideal bone density.
• Quick recovery: Like All-on-4, All-on-X provides patients with a temporary set of teeth on the same day, allowing them to enjoy a restored smile while the implants fully integrate with the jawbone.

All-on-X offers an innovative solution for patients who require a more customized approach to full-mouth restoration, ensuring a long-lasting, functional, and natural-looking result.

Conclusion

Implant dentistry offers patients a variety of solutions for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral health. Whether you're looking to replace a single tooth, an entire arch, or explore options for full-mouth restoration, implant-supported dentures, single-tooth dental implants, All-on-4, and All-on-X provide effective and personalized treatments. At Klein Dental Arts in Maryville, TN, Dr. Todd Klein, DDS and Dr. Blake Reed, DMD are committed to providing the highest level of care and helping patients achieve a smile that is both functional and beautiful.

If you're considering implant dentistry as a solution for your tooth replacement needs, schedule a consultation at Klein Dental Arts today. Our team will work with you to determine the best treatment option for your unique needs and guide you through the process to ensure a successful outcome. Your new smile is within reach, and we are here to help you every step of the way!

Transform your smile with expert care at Klein Dental Arts! Call us today at 865-983-0941 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Todd Klein, DDS and Dr. Blake Reed, DMD at 1905 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801.