Dental Implants

If you are missing one tooth, several teeth, or all of your teeth, dental implants may be one of the most effective and lasting solutions available. At Shanks Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Charles H. Shanks provides dental implant placement for patients across Knoxville and Maryville, Tennessee, combining surgical precision with the kind of personal attention that helps patients feel informed and at ease.

What Are 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. Once the implant bonds with the surrounding bone, it provides a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or full-arch restoration.

Unlike removable dentures or traditional bridges, dental implants are designed to function and feel much like your natural teeth. They do not slip, require the trimming of healthy adjacent teeth, or depend on neighboring teeth for support. For many patients, they represent a more permanent and comfortable approach to tooth replacement.

Dental implant placement is a collaborative process. Dr. Shanks handles the surgical phase, including the implant procedure itself, any necessary tooth extractions, and bone grafting when needed. Your restorative dentist will then design and place the crown, bridge, or prosthesis that completes your smile.

Implant Options to Fit Your Needs

Not every patient needs the same solution. Dr. Shanks works with patients whose needs range from replacing a single tooth to restoring an entire arch. The type of prosthesis recommended will depend on how many teeth are missing, the condition of your jawbone, and your overall oral health.

Common implant-supported restorations include:

• Single tooth implant: One implant topped with a custom crown to replace an individual missing tooth.
• Implant-supported bridge: Two or more implants used to support a bridge that replaces several consecutive missing teeth.
• Full-arch restoration: A complete prosthesis, either fixed or removable, supported by multiple implants to replace all of the teeth in your upper or lower jaw.
• Overdenture: A removable prosthesis that attaches to implants using a bar or ball-and-socket system, offering improved stability compared to traditional dentures.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implant cost is one of the most common questions patients ask, and it is a fair one. The answer depends on several factors, including the number of implants needed, whether bone grafting is required, and the type of restoration that will be attached to the implant.

Because every patient’s situation is different, the only way to receive an accurate estimate is through a thorough consultation. During your visit, Dr. Shanks will evaluate your oral health, review your imaging, and discuss all of your options so you have a clear understanding of what treatment involves and what to expect.

While dental implants typically represent a larger upfront investment than some alternatives, many patients find that their long-term durability and function make them a worthwhile choice. A bridge or denture may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, while a well-maintained implant is designed to last for many years.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Coverage for dental implants varies widely depending on your plan. Some insurance policies include partial coverage for the implant procedure, the crown, or related services such as bone grafting. Others may not cover implants at all, classifying them as an elective or cosmetic procedure.

We encourage patients to contact their insurance provider directly to understand the specifics of their plan. Our team is happy to help you navigate your coverage and work through any available benefits during your consultation. If you have questions about financing or payment options, please do not hesitate to ask.

Why Choose an Oral Surgeon for Dental Implants?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete several additional years of hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training beyond dental school. This specialized background gives them a deep understanding of the bone, tissue, and anatomical structures involved in implant placement.

Dr. Charles H. Shanks performs implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite at our office, which supports the highest standards of sterility and safety. For patients with more complex needs, including extensive bone grafting or special medical considerations, out-patient hospital surgery is also available, but rarely needed.

Dr. Shanks is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the American Dental Association, and he brings years of experience in dental implants, bone grafting, and oral surgical procedures to every patient he treats.

What If I Don’t Have Enough Bone?

Successful implant placement requires adequate jawbone volume to support the implant. When a tooth has been missing for some time, the surrounding bone can gradually diminish. In these situations, bone grafting may be recommended to rebuild the area before or at the time of implant placement.

Bone grafting sounds more complex than it often is. The majority of dental implants and bone grafts at our practice are performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without general anesthesia. Dr. Shanks will evaluate whether grafting is needed and discuss what the process would look like for you specifically.

What to Expect

Every patient’s implant journey is a little different, but most follow a general progression:

• Consultation: Dr. Shanks will examine your mouth, review your medical and dental history, and discuss your goals. Imaging will help determine whether implants are appropriate and whether bone grafting may be needed.
• Preparation: Any necessary extractions or bone grafting will be completed first, with time allowed for healing before implant placement.
• Implant placement: The titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone. A healing period follows to allow the implant to integrate with the bone, a process called osseointegration.
• Restoration: Once the implant has fully integrated, your restorative dentist will attach the final crown, bridge, or prosthesis.

Throughout each stage, our team is here to answer your questions and help you feel prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most healthy adults who are missing one or more teeth may be candidates for dental implants. The most important factors are having adequate jawbone density to support the implant and being in good enough overall health to undergo a surgical procedure. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain medications may require additional evaluation. A consultation with Dr. Shanks is the best way to determine whether implants are right for you.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution. With proper care and maintenance, the implant itself can last for many years or even a lifetime. The crown or prosthesis attached to the implant may eventually need to be replaced due to normal wear, but the implant post typically remains stable with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Does the implant procedure hurt?

Most patients are surprised by how manageable the procedure is. Dental implant surgery is performed with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout, and sedation options may also be available. Some soreness and swelling in the days following the procedure is normal and typically resolves within a week or so. Dr. Shanks and his team will give you clear aftercare instructions to help with a smooth recovery.

How long does the full implant process take?

The total timeline varies depending on your specific situation. If bone grafting is needed, the process may take several months to allow for proper healing before the implant is placed. The osseointegration phase, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone, typically takes a few months as well. In some cases, the restorative phase can begin sooner. Dr. Shanks will give you a realistic timeline based on your treatment plan.

What is a full mouth dental implant restoration?

Full mouth dental implants, sometimes called full-arch restoration, involve replacing all of the teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both using a series of implants to support a fixed or removable prosthesis. This approach can offer significantly better stability, comfort, and function compared to traditional dentures. Dr. Shanks will assess your bone structure and overall health to determine the best approach for your situation.

Can dental implants fail?

Implant failure is uncommon but possible. Risk factors include smoking, uncontrolled systemic conditions, insufficient bone density, and poor oral hygiene after placement. Choosing an experienced oral surgeon and following all post-operative care instructions significantly reduces the risk. Dr. Shanks will discuss any factors that may affect your outcome during your consultation.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Shanks?

Many patients are referred to our practice by their general dentist or restorative dentist, since implant placement is a collaborative process. However, patients are also welcome to contact our office directly to schedule a consultation. We will coordinate with your referring provider as needed.