Dental Implants in Knoxville, TN

Do you have one or more missing teeth but dread the thought of wearing dentures? If so, dental implants may be the solution for you! Dr. Holt provides implant dentistry in Knoxville, Tennessee to restore your smile’s health and appearance. 

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium post attached to a prosthetic tooth. The implant is biocompatible, which means it’s not harmful to living tissue. For patients in Knoxville, TN, dental implants provide a permanent solution by replacing a missing tooth, from the root below the gums to the visible part of the tooth called the crown.

A dental implant is made of three parts:

• The implant’s screw-like post 
• The abutment (connector) 
• The prosthetic tooth or teeth 

Dental implants require surgery as they are a more stable and dependable tooth replacement than conventional, removable prostheses.

The Different Types of Dental Implants

There are many types of dental implants available to patients in Knoxville, TN. The three common types are endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. 

Endosteal Implant 

The safest and most common option, endosteal implants, are suited for most patients and require a healthy jawbone so the post can properly fuse. Endosteal implants are placeholder posts shaped like screws that the dentist surgically places into the jawbone. Once the gums and jaw heal, we can attach your false tooth or teeth to the implant to complete your smile. 

Subperiosteal Implant

This is an alternative to endosteal implants that rest on the jawbone but under the gum tissue. The dentist places a metal frame under the gums with a post attached, and the gums heal around the frame to secure it in place. The prosthesis is connected to the posts that emerge from below the gums, making it an excellent option for patients in Knoxville who don’t have enough jawbone for an implant or don’t want to undergo bone grafting surgery.

Zygomatic Implant 

Zygomatic implants are uncommon and require a more complicated procedure. It involves surgically placing the implant in the cheekbone instead of the jawbone. 

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Before recommending dental implants, Dr. Holt will conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure this is the right solution for you. As a Fellow of the Congress of Oral Implantology, he has extensive expertise and provides meticulous care for patients in Knoxville, TN, ensuring the highest chance of implant success.

Several factors determine who is a good implant candidate:

• Healthy gums free from periodontal disease
• Sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant
• Good overall health and a strong immune system
• Commitment to maintaining excellent oral hygiene
• Completed jaw growth and development

The following situations can affect implant healing and integration, meaning we may need to take additional steps before recommending treatment.

• Insufficient Bone Density — If you've experienced jawbone loss, you may need bone grafting before implant placement. Dr. Holt can evaluate your bone structure and discuss options for building up support for your implants.
• Active Gum Disease — Periodontal disease must be controlled before implant placement to ensure proper healing and long-term success.
• Certain Medical Conditions — Uncontrolled diabetes, severe immune system disorders, or current cancer treatment may impact healing and require special consideration.
• Smoking or Tobacco Use — Active smoking can significantly affect implant success rates and healing. We strongly recommend quitting before beginning implant treatment in Knoxville to give you the best possible outcome.

The Dental Implant Process

Getting a dental implant is a process. It occurs over several months and is followed by steps that lead up to the placement of a dental crown, bridge, or denture. With your new restoration in place, you’ll enjoy a fully functioning, complete smile for many years.

Implant Consultation and Planning

The first step is a comprehensive examination by Dr. Holt, which includes sophisticated 3-D imaging technology. He evaluates this information and creates a customized treatment plan that will guide you through every step of the process. We work with patients across Knoxville and East Tennessee who are seeking affordable dental implants with flexible financing options.

1. Preparation — If needed, we'll first address any existing dental issues, such as gum disease or the need for bone grafting. Careful planning at this stage gives us the best possible foundation for the new implants.
2. Implant Placement — First, we numb the treatment area using strong local anesthetics. Then, Dr. Holt expertly places the titanium implant post into the jawbone. Most patients tell us the procedure was more comfortable than they anticipated.
3. Healing and Integration—Over the next 3–6 months, the implant bonds with the jawbone through a natural process called osseointegration. This stage is crucial because it gives the implant the stability needed to support a dental restoration.
4. Final Restoration — We'll attach the custom-crafted crown, bridge, or denture to the implant once healing is complete. Dr. Holt meticulously adjusts the restoration to ensure it looks natural, fits perfectly, and functions comfortably.
5. Follow-up Care — We'll schedule regular follow-up appointments to ensure your implant continues functioning properly and maintain your bright, healthy smile for many years.

The Benefits of Dental Implants 

Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement and have a very high success rate. Many patients looking for affordable dental implants in Tennessee find that, over time, implants can be more cost-effective than bridges or dentures and provide the following benefits:

Permanence and Durability 

Dental implants are secured in the jawbone, making them permanent and durable. Unlike dentures and removable prostheses, dental implants are stable and never shift or slip out of place. 

Mimics Natural Teeth 

Dental implants are designed to mimic the structure and function of biological teeth, so they look and feel completely natural. You never have to worry about using adhesives or other products to keep your teeth in place; no one will ever know you have dental implants. 

Supports Jawbone Health 

Because the implant is placed in the jawbone, the bone is stimulated and remains strong and healthy. 

Restores Bite and Function  

Dental implants are the closest replacement to natural teeth you can get. This is because they fully restore your natural ability to bite and chew food and speak clearly.

Prevents Premature Aging 

Missing teeth can make one's face look aged and lead to facial collapse or sagging. Dental implants prevent this from occurring and provide a more youthful appearance. 

Low-Maintenance 

Although your implants will never get cavities, we recommend practicing excellent oral hygiene to prevent gum disease and other problems. Dental implants are easy to maintain; you brush, floss, and see your dentist for routine visits like usual. You don’t need special products or instruments to clean your teeth, which is a significant win for many of our patients. 

Looking for Dental Implants in Knoxville?

If you have missing teeth and wish to restore your smile, call our dental office in Knoxville, TN. Dr. Holt provides personalized, high-quality dental implants to ensure your new grin looks, feels, and functions beautifully.