Request a consultation for dental implants

What Are Dental Implants?

120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth due to dental decay (cavities), gum and bone disease, injury, or tumor surgery. Dental implants can be an effective treatment because they are a substitute for the root of a tooth, providing a sturdy base to support one or more artificial teeth. Implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone (below the gums) where teeth are missing. They look, feel and function like natural teeth and preserve your facial structure by preventing bone deterioration caused by missing teeth.

Why choose Vanderbilt Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

  • Expert care: We were the first oral surgery team in Middle Tennessee to perform endosseous (root-form) dental implants in the early 1980s. Our team includes board-certified surgeons, and our experience means you get the best possible care. We are also the official dentists and oral surgeons for the NHL Nashville Predators.
  • Beautiful new clinic: We have a new 10,000-square-foot clinic in Hillsboro Village, across from the Belcourt Theatre with convenient and free parking.
  • Pricing: We provide financing and payment options and have competitive pricing compared with other oral surgeons.
Advantages of Dental Implants over other treatment options

  • Feel better about how you look: Implants look and feel like your own teeth.
  • Quality of life: Implants avoid the discomfort of removable dentures. They allow you to speak clearly and eat easily without teeth slipping in your mouth.
  • Convenience: With dental implants you do not need to deal with adhesives, or removing and cleaning dentures.
  • Durability: Dental implants that are well placed and cared for can last for decades. Replacement of dentures or bridges may be necessary as often as every five to 15 years and have maintenance costs, such as fixatives and adhesives.
  • Improved oral health: Implants prevent bone loss in the jaw. This can happen if missing teeth are not replaced and the teeth around the space shift. Nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant. Individual implants also allow for easier access between teeth, making it easier to brush and floss your teeth.
  • Cost and value: Compared with other options for replacing a tooth, dental implants are cost-competitive, especially in the long term.
Are you a candidate?

After a consultation, your implant dentist will provide you with a treatment plan. Total treatment time depends on your needs, medical and dental history, the condition of your jawbone and the technique and materials used.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Most dental implants and bone grafts can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without general intravenous (I.V.) anesthesia.

Do implants need special care?

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you keep your mouth healthy. Caring for teeth restored with dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth: brush, floss and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.

Costs

Cost depends on several different factors, including how many teeth need replacing and their location; the number and type of implants; and whether any additional procedures are necessary to prepare your mouth for the implants. Bring your insurance information with you to your first appointment to receive an exact quote.

We offer financing and payment options. Vanderbilt University Medical Center employees receive a 20% discount. This discount can only be applied when Vanderbilt University Medical Center employees self-pay.