Anyone with one or more missing teeth is a potential candidate for dental implants. There are a variety of scenarios in which one might have missing teeth, be it from injury, disease, or a dental extraction [link to Extraction page]. In all cases, the health of the jawbone is at risk of being compromised– resulting in bone loss that can change the shape of the face as a whole.

In some cases, existing bone loss as a result of one or more missing teeth can make implant placement more difficult. In order for implants to be anchored to the jaw properly, there must first be sufficient bone mass. In cases where the treatment area has insufficient bone mass, a procedure known as a bone graft may be able to correct the problem. There are several different methods for bone grafting, all of which depend on the circumstances of the specific case.

When made from high-quality materials like those used by our Lexington and London oral surgeons– and properly cared for– dental implants can last as long as multiple decades. This makes implants the most long-lasting and durable tooth replacement option available, and you can care for your implants just as you do your natural teeth with adequate brushing, flossing, and overall oral health habits.

Implants are every bit as strong as your natural teeth, and in some cases are even stronger. You can rest easy knowing that you’ve made a lifetime investment in great oral health and aesthetic quality. With implants, you can enjoy all your favorite foods with no limits; the slippage and discomfort that many experience with traditional dentures are no longer a worry, so you can smile with confidence!

At Jenkins, Morrow & Gayheart, you’ll be treated to the best in London and Lexington oral surgery. Every patient’s individual case is unique, but our experienced doctors and advanced technology make the dental implant procedure process a streamlined and comfortable one.

From diagnostic work to placement of the final permanent crown, an implant procedure in its entirety can take up to a few months. However, in some cases, the crown can be placed on the same day as implant placement, significantly reducing your time spent in the office. Drs. Jenkins, Morrow, and Gayheart all work closely with their patients to help them understand every aspect of their treatment timeline.

Although implants are often considered a cosmetic procedure by insurance plans, every case is different. We’ll work to ensure you get the full extent of coverage you’re entitled to. Though the upfront cost of implants is typically more expensive than alternatives such as dentures, partials, and bridges, the long-term cost of maintenance and replacement for these devices can add up. Implants, on the other hand, can last for decades– their unparalleled durability makes them a smart investment for both your health and your wallet.

If you’re looking for the best dental implants in Central Kentucky, look no further than Jenkins, Morrow & Gayheart. Our oral surgeons at our Lexington and London offices use a variety of state-of-the-art equipment to provide a comfortable and high-quality experience to all patients. We utilize technology such as cone-beam CT scanning, which creates 3D imaging for treatment evaluation.

The placement of dental implants is a fairly routine procedure that can be done in-office in a matter of just a couple hours or less. Oftentimes, local anesthesia is sufficient for the procedure, but other options like sedation and general anesthesia are available. We’ll make sure that you’re as comfortable as possible during your implant procedure, and utilize the method each patient prefers and that serves their procedure best.