Implant Restorations in Tazewell, VA

You’re anxious to enjoy your new smile and have questions about the final step in your implant journey. We totally understand!

Fortunately, the dental implant restoration step is the shortest part of the process. Your dentist takes an impression, fabricates your restoration, and secures it over the dental implant post. When we place the crown, you can eat, laugh, and enjoy your new smile.

Dental implants are tooth root replacements surgically inserted into the jawbone. It takes several months for these posts to integrate into the jawbone, but when they do, the restoration portion is surprisingly brief, taking less than an hour after restoration fabrication.

Dental Implant Care for Long-Term Success

Dental implants require the same upkeep as natural teeth.

Remember to:

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly
• Visit the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
• Report any oral health changes to our dental office.

With excellent dental care and a good oral hygiene routine at home, dental implants can last decades and sometimes even for life.

However, it’s important to schedule a consultation with your Tazewell dentist to determine candidacy.

Are You Considering Dental Implants in Tazewell, VA?

For more information about tooth replacement and dental implant restoration—or to book your consultation—contact a friendly dental team member at (276) 988-5554 to get started.

Dental implants are often categorized as a cosmetic procedure, which limits the amount that insurers are willing to pay. As a result, in many cases, dental insurance does not fully cover implant restorations. It’s worth noting, however, that some policies may offer partial coverage.

The good news, however, is that certain components of the process, like extractions, bone grafts, or crowns, may be eligible for coverage depending on the plan.

What You Should Know About Implant Insurance Coverage

Implant procedures typically involve multiple stages, most notably placing the implant post, attaching an abutment, and final restoration with a dental crown or denture. Some insurance plans may cover just the restoration portion (like the crown) if it’s deemed “medically necessary.” Others may reimburse a percentage of each step up to a plan maximum.

We encourage all patients to check with their provider or ask their dental office to submit a preauthorization request.

If insurance doesn’t help much, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can help offset out-of-pocket implant costs. Many dental offices also offer financing options to make implant treatment more affordable.

Effective, Affordable Dental Implants in Tazewell, VA

If you’re in Tazwell and want to learn more about the root canal treatment process, its many benefits, and how to minimize its impact on your wallet, contact Dr.Ricky Alan May and the excellent May DDS team to schedule a consultation!

Yes. While they are a highly reliable treatment procedure with a 95 percent success rate, dental implants can still fail. 

Infection of the bone, typically caused by gum disease, is the enemy of the dental implant and can lead to its failure. Some implants fail due to poor placement during surgery or inadequate bone support. Dental trauma could also be a factor in implant failure.

Some patient-related factors can also cause dental implants to fail, such as:

• Smoking or tobacco use weakens the immune system, which can contribute to implant failure.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) may put undue stress on the implant and cause failure.
• Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and infection that causes implant failure.
• Systemic concerns, like diabetes, may strain a dental implant.

Caring for Your Dental Implant

Taking exceptional care of your dental implant with consistent daily brushing and flossing will protect its health and longevity. 

Routine visits to your dentist in Tazewell, VA, every six months are another way to protect your smile and your dental implant. Your dentist takes x-rays annually to ensure the health of your implant and the surrounding bone.

If it's time for your next dental checkup and teeth cleaning, or if you have additional questions about dental implants in Tazewell, VA, contact us at (276) 988-5554.