Dental Implants at Maplewood Family Dental

Rebuild Your Smile from the Root Up

Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can make it difficult to chew, speak clearly, and feel confident in social situations. If you’re looking for a permanent solution to replace missing teeth, dental implants may be the ideal option. At Maplewood Family Dental in Knightdale, NC, Dr. Kevin Chidester and his team provide high-quality dental implant services designed to restore both the function and beauty of your smile.

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What are dental implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached to the top, creating a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are a permanent solution that can last a lifetime with proper care.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Choosing dental implants in Knightdale offers numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options:

Natural Appearance and Function

Dental implants are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. They are custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, providing a result that is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.

Durability and Longevity

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The titanium post integrates with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable and permanent foundation for your replacement tooth.

Preservation of Jawbone Health

When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, helping to preserve bone density and maintain the structure of your face.

Improved Oral Health

Unlike traditional bridges, which require grinding down adjacent teeth for support, dental implants stand independently. This means your surrounding teeth remain untouched, promoting better long-term oral health.

Enhanced Comfort and Confidence

Because dental implants are securely anchored in your jaw, they won’t slip or shift like dentures can. This stability allows you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.

The Dental Implant Process

Getting dental implants in Knightdale is a multi-step process that typically takes several months to complete. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation: During your first visit, Dr. Chidester will evaluate your oral health, take digital X-rays, and discuss your treatment goals. This assessment helps determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants and allows us to create a personalized treatment plan.

Implant Placement: The titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone during a minor procedure. Local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort throughout the process. After placement, the implant will need time to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone, a process that typically takes three to six months.

Abutment Placement: Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant. This serves as the anchor for your final restoration.

Crown Placement: Finally, a custom-made crown is placed on top of the abutment. This crown is designed to match your natural teeth in both appearance and function, completing your smile restoration.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Most adults with one or more missing teeth and good overall health are candidates for dental implants. However, certain factors can affect eligibility, including:

Adequate jawbone density to support the implant
Healthy gums free from periodontal disease
No uncontrolled health conditions that might interfere with healing
Non-smokers or those willing to quit during the healing process

If you don’t have enough bone density, a bone graft may be recommended to build up the area before implant placement. Dr. Chidester will discuss all your options during your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Are dental implants painful?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort and swelling are normal afterward, but these symptoms can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear.

Will dental implants look natural?

Yes. Your custom crown is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance.

Does insurance cover dental implants?

Coverage varies by plan. Some dental insurance policies may cover part of the procedure, while others may not. Our team can help you understand your benefits and explore financing options.

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Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants in Knightdale

If you’re ready to replace missing teeth with a solution that’s permanent, functional, and beautiful, dental implants at Maplewood Family Dental may be right for you. Dr. Kevin Chidester and our experienced team are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a comfortable experience and exceptional results. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a complete, confident smile.

Dental Implants at Maplewood Family Dental

Rebuild Your Smile from the Root Up

What are dental implants?