Dental Implants
Dental Implants in McKinney, TX
A dental implant is the most natural-feeling way to replace a missing tooth. At Cherish Dental, we guide you through the entire implant process—from your first question to your finished restoration.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once it integrates with the bone (a process called osseointegration, typically taking a few months), a custom crown is attached on top. The result looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth—you brush and floss it normally.
Implants can replace a single missing tooth, support a bridge for multiple missing teeth, or anchor a full arch of teeth for patients missing all teeth.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults with one or more missing teeth are potential candidates. Key factors include:
- Sufficient bone density in the jaw (bone grafting may be needed if bone volume is low)
- Healthy gums free from active periodontal disease
- Good overall health—uncontrolled diabetes and smoking can affect healing
- Commitment to oral hygiene and regular dental maintenance visits
Dr. Kovvuri evaluates your specific situation at your consultation and gives you an honest assessment—including whether an alternative like a bridge or partial denture might serve you better.
How Cherish Dental manages your implant process
Our practice handles the restorative side of your implant—the crown, abutment, and surrounding planning. For the surgical placement of the implant post, we coordinate with a trusted local specialist (oral surgeon or periodontist). We remain your primary point of contact throughout, provide a clear timeline, and ensure a smooth handoff at each stage.
You receive a written estimate before committing to any part of treatment. We verify insurance benefits and explain financing and phased treatment options for larger cases.
Advanced imaging for precise implant planning
Implant placement requires detailed knowledge of your bone anatomy, nerve locations, and sinus proximity—measurements that standard 2D X-rays cannot always provide reliably. Cherish Dental has an in-office Vatech CBCT (Cone Beam CT) system that produces a full 3D view of your jaw in seconds.
Having CBCT imaging on-site means we complete diagnostic imaging during your appointment—no referral to a separate imaging center needed for most cases. The 3D data allows our coordinating surgeon to plan implant position, angle, and depth with precision before any procedure begins, which improves predictability and reduces surprises during placement.
Example image from an actual patient scan, published with the patient’s consent. All identifying details have been removed to protect patient privacy.
Implants vs. other tooth replacement options
- Implant — permanent, bone-preserving, natural feel; highest upfront cost but longest lifespan
- Bridge — faster, no surgery, lower cost; requires reshaping of adjacent teeth
- Partial denture — removable, most affordable; less stable than fixed options
We discuss all three options at your consultation so you can make an informed decision that fits your health goals, timeline, and budget.
Dental implant questions
How long do dental implants last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the implant fixture (the titanium post in the bone) can last decades—often a lifetime. The crown on top may need replacement after 10–20 years depending on wear and oral habits. Tobacco use, bone density, and maintenance all influence long-term outcomes.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Coverage varies significantly by plan—some cover the crown portion, some cover part of the surgical placement, and others exclude implants entirely. We verify your specific benefits before treatment begins and provide a written cost estimate so you know your out-of-pocket amount up front.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The restorative side we handle—fitting and placing your custom crown—is generally comfortable with local anesthesia. The surgical placement is performed by our coordinating specialist, who will walk you through anesthesia and recovery expectations directly. Most patients manage post-procedure discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief.
Also at Cherish Dental
Find out if implants are right for you
Implant consultation—Accepting New Patients
Request a consultation appointment. We provide thorough evaluation, options, and written estimates—no commitment required at the consultation.