Do you only have one missing tooth? We can fill the gap in your smile with an implant. A single dental implant replaces one missing tooth with a titanium post and a custom crown that looks and functions like your natural tooth. At 615 Smile Design, Dr. Kevin Sivaneri plans your implant, coordinates with a trusted oral surgeon who places the post, and then fits your final crown. He welcomes patients from Bellevue, West Meade, and Belle Meade to get a single implant at our Nashville, TN, dental office as part of our implant dentistry services.
What Is a Single Dental Implant?
A single dental implant has three parts. The implant post is a small titanium screw that Dr. Sivaneri places into your jawbone, where it acts as an artificial tooth root and fuses with your bone over a few months. Once it’s stable, an abutment connects to the implant. Your custom dental crown matches the color, shape, and size of your other teeth, and Dr. Sivaneri designs it to blend in so no one knows it’s there.
Unlike a bridge, an implant doesn’t require grinding down the healthy teeth on either side of your gap. Also, unlike a denture, it doesn’t slip or come out. It stands on its own and stimulates your jawbone the way a natural root does.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Sivaneri for Implants
Dr. Sivaneri completed a two-year General Practice Residency at Mercy Medical Center in Canton, Ohio, where he was selected as Chief Dental Resident in his second year. That’s two years of advanced training in implant placement, restorative dentistry, and patient comfort.
Today, he’s an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry, and Spear Education. Dr. Sivaneri’s focus on conservative and metal-free dentistry means he preserves as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
Who Is a Candidate for a Single Implant?
Most adults with one missing tooth are candidates. You’ll need healthy gums and enough bone in your jaw to support the implant. If you’ve been missing a tooth for a while, you might need a bone graft first. Dr. Sivaneri will check with a 3D scan during your consultation and tell you exactly what’s needed.
You may be a good candidate for a single implant if:
- You’re missing one tooth (or need a tooth extraction)
- Your gums are healthy
- You have enough bone density in the implant site
- You want a permanent solution that doesn’t involve your other teeth
But you might need additional treatment first if you have:
- Bone loss at the missing tooth site
- Gum disease that needs treatment
- Certain health conditions that affect healing
Dr. Sivaneri will walk you through everything after your exam and scan with no pressure and no guesswork.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Your first visit at our Belle Forest Circle office takes about an hour. Dr. Sivaneri will:
- Examine your mouth, gums, and bite
- Take a 3D scan (CBCT) to assess bone density and plan the implant position
- Review your health history
- Give you a written treatment plan with itemized costs
- Verify your insurance benefits
- Walk you through financing options
You’ll leave knowing exactly what the implant costs, how long it takes, and what to expect.
How Much Does a Single Dental Implant Cost in Nashville?
The cost of an individual implant depends on a few factors, and Dr. Sivaneri will give you a written estimate after your consultation and 3D scan. Here’s what affects the total:
- Bone grafting. If you need it, it adds to the total and extends your timeline by 4 to 6 months.
- Implant brand. Dr. Sivaneri uses established, research-backed implant systems, not economy brands.
- Crown material. Zirconia and porcelain crowns look more natural and contain no metal.
- Sedation. Local anesthesia is included. If you want IV sedation or nitrous oxide for comfort, that’s an additional cost.
Does insurance cover implants?
Many Tennessee dental plans cover a portion of implant treatment, usually 40% to 80% after your deductible. Annual maximums of $1,500 to $2,500 often limit what you actually receive. We’ll verify your benefits before you commit to anything.
Financing Options
We work with CareCredit, Cherry, and other patient financing partners. HSA and FSA funds can be used for implant treatment. We also offer in-house payment plans for qualified patients.
The Single Implant Process: Step by Step
- Step 1: Consultation and 3D scan. Dr. Sivaneri examines your mouth, takes a CBCT scan, and builds your treatment plan.
- Step 2: Implant placement. Our local implant surgeon places the titanium post into your jawbone. The appointment takes about an hour. You’ll be numb, so you won’t feel anything during the procedure.
- Step 3: Healing (osseointegration). Over 3 to 6 months, your jawbone fuses with the implant post. You’ll have a temporary tooth or a gap filler during this time so you’re not walking around with a missing tooth.
- Step 4: Abutment and crown. Once the implant is stable, Dr. Sivaneri attaches the abutment and fits your custom crown. This takes one or two appointments.
From start to finish, getting one implant usually takes 4 to 6 months. If you need bone grafting first, add another 4 to 6 months.
Single Dental Implant FAQs
Do you have more questions for us? Read answers to common questions patients have before they get an individual implant in our Nashville dental office.
How long does a single dental implant last?
The titanium post can last a lifetime with good hygiene and regular checkups. The crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years before it needs replacement.
Does getting an implant hurt?
Most patients say it’s less uncomfortable than they expected. You’re numb during the procedure. Afterward, mild soreness is normal for a few days and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can I get an implant if I’ve been missing a tooth for years?
Yes, but you might need a bone graft first. Your jawbone shrinks where the tooth used to be. Dr. Sivaneri will check with a 3D scan and tell you if grafting is needed.
How soon can I get back to work?
Most patients return to work the next day. If you have a physically demanding job, you might want to take it easy for a couple of days.
Can I get a single dental implant without pain?
Yes. We offer options to help you feel comfortable as you get your implant:
- Local anesthesia. Standard numbing. You’ll be awake but won’t feel pain.
- Nitrous oxide. Calming gas that wears off quickly. You can drive yourself home.
- Oral sedation. A pill taken before your appointment to help you relax.
- IV sedation. For patients with significant anxiety or complex cases. You’ll need a ride home.
Dr. Sivaneri was trained in anesthesia and patient comfort during his residency at Mercy Medical Center. He will work with you to find the best sedation option for your treatment.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We work with CareCredit and other financing partners, and we offer in-house payment plans for qualified patients. We’ll go over all your options during your consultation.
Schedule Your Single Implant Consultation
Dr. Kevin Sivaneri has the training and experience to replace your missing tooth with an implant that looks, feels, and functions like your own. Our Belle Forest Circle office serves patients from Bellevue, West Meade, Belle Meade, and across West Nashville.
Call (615) 637-2878 or book online to schedule your consultation. You’ll leave with a clear plan, a written estimate, and answers to every question.