A dental implant and crown procedure replaces a missing tooth root with a titanium implant and restores the visible tooth with a custom crown. This option helps people who want a long-term, natural-feeling replacement instead of a bridge or denture. This article explains what to expect during a dental implant and crown procedure, from planning and surgery to healing, final crown placement, risks, costs, and questions to ask your dentist.
What is a dental implant and crown procedure?
A dental implant replaces the tooth root with a biocompatible post placed in the jawbone. After the implant fuses with bone, a crown is attached to restore chewing and appearance. Patients choose a dental implant and crown procedure in Cookeville, TN when they want a stable, permanent tooth replacement that preserves nearby teeth and jawbone compared with bridges or removable dentures.
Initial consultation and planning
Exam, imaging, and treatment plan
Your dentist will do a clinical exam and take CBCT scans to evaluate bone, nerves, and sinus anatomy. Digital impressions with a Primescan give accurate models for planning. The team reviews whether a bone graft is needed, picks implant size and position, and creates a guided surgical plan.
Expectations, timing, and sedation options
Expect a timeline from weeks to several months depending on grafting or healing needs. Sedation options include nitrous oxide for mild anxiety or IV sedation for deeper comfort. Bring a list of medications, a driver if sedated, and questions about recovery and costs.
The surgical visit: implant placement
On the day of surgery, local anesthesia and sedation keep you comfortable. A 3D-printed surgical guide helps place the implant precisely. The implant is seated into the bone; the visit often takes under an hour for a single tooth. Some cases allow immediate loading with a temporary crown, while others need delayed loading to allow healing.
Temporary restoration and healing
Osseointegration—the implant bonding to bone—takes weeks to months. You may receive a temporary crown or healing abutment to shape gums while the site heals. Normal signs include mild swelling and gradual improvement; persistent severe pain, fever, or excessive bleeding are warning signs to contact your dentist.
Final crown placement
Once healed, your dentist uses digital impressions or CEREC scanning to design the final crown. An in-house lab or milling machine (Ceramill/CEREC) fabricates a precise restoration. The crown is checked for fit, bite, and color, then screwed or cemented onto the implant for a natural finish.
Pain, recovery, and aftercare
Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort controlled with over-the-counter or prescription pain meds. Use ice to reduce swelling, eat soft foods for a few days, and keep the area clean with gentle rinsing and good oral hygiene. Follow-up visits check healing and remove any stitches.
Risks, complications, and who’s a candidate
Risks include infection, implant failure, or nerve irritation. Heavy smokers, uncontrolled diabetes, and severe bone loss may affect candidacy. Bone grafts or zygomatic implants can be options for significant bone loss. Your dentist will review risks and alternatives.
Cost and factors that change the treatment plan
Costs vary based on single vs multiple implants, need for grafting, and whether same-day crowns are used. In-house labs and same-day CEREC options in Cookeville, TN can reduce time and sometimes overall cost for a dental implant and crown procedure in Cookeville, TN.
Questions to ask your dentist
Ask about their implant experience, use of CBCT and guided surgery, sedation choices, expected timeline, warranty or maintenance, and in-house lab capabilities.
About Golden Oak Sedation Dental & Implant Center and Dr. Johnny Shanks
Golden Oak Sedation Dental & Implant Center in Cookeville, TN focuses on patient comfort and advanced implant care. The practice offers sedation options, an in-house lab, 3D-guided surgery, and digital workflows for efficient implant and crown care. Dr. Johnny Shanks brings training in implants and restorative dentistry and prioritizes precise, compassionate treatment.
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Schedule a consultation to learn if a dental implant and crown procedure is right for you.