Patient Education & Blog | Mission Dental

Dental Implants: what Materials Are They Made of And What Are Their Advantages? in Nashville, TN

A Permanent Solution for a Confident Smile When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants have become one of the most trusted and long-lasting options available today. However, we understand that the idea of a dental implant might sound a bit intimidating at first. That’s why at Mission Dental in Miami, FL, we believe in educating our patients in a simple, friendly, and reassuring way.This article will help you understand what dental implants are made of, why those materials are used, and the many advantages they offer. And don’t worry—there’s nothing scary here. Dental implants are safe, reliable, and designed to help you smile with confidence.If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, feel free to call us at 615-366-4141 to speak with Dr. Jenkins and our caring team. What Exactly Is a Dental Implant? A dental implant is a small post, usually made of a strong and biocompatible material, that is surgically placed into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once it heals and fuses with the bone, a crown (the visible part of the tooth) is placed on top to restore full function and aesthetics.Think of a dental implant as a secure foundation for your new smile—one that looks and feels just like a natural tooth. Materials Used in Dental Implants There are two primary materials used in modern dental implants, each carefully selected for its safety, strength, and compatibility with the human body.1. Titanium ImplantsTitanium is the most common material used in dental implants for several reasons: Biocompatibility: Titanium is well-accepted by the body. It integrates seamlessly with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong bond that lasts. Durability: Titanium is incredibly strong yet lightweight, making it ideal for long-term use. Proven Track Record: Dental professionals have been using titanium implants for over 50 years, with excellent success rates. Versatility: Titanium can be used in different types of implants, whether you need a single tooth replaced or a full-arch restoration. 2. Zirconia ImplantsZirconia is a ceramic material that has gained popularity in recent years, especially for patients who prefer a metal-free option. Metal-Free: Perfect for patients with metal sensitivities or those who prefer a holistic approach. Aesthetic Benefit: Zirconia is tooth-colored, which may be beneficial in areas where gum recession could expose the implant. Resistance to Corrosion: Like titanium, zirconia does not corrode or degrade in the mouth. At Mission Dental, Dr. Jenkins can evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate material for your situation. Why Choose Dental Implants? The Key Advantages Whether you lost a tooth due to an accident, decay, or gum disease, dental implants can restore your smile and quality of life. Here are some of their standout benefits:1. Natural Look and FeelDental implants are designed to mimic the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. Once placed, they blend in seamlessly and feel just like the real thing—no one will be able to tell the difference.2. Long-Term DurabilityUnlike bridges or dentures that may need adjustments or replacements, dental implants can last decades with proper care. The implant post itself is permanent, and even the crown can last many years with good oral hygiene.3. Improved ConfidenceMissing teeth can impact your self-esteem, especially when speaking or smiling. Implants give you the confidence to speak, eat, and laugh freely again—without worrying about your teeth shifting or falling out.4. Preserves Jawbone HealthWhen you lose a tooth, the jawbone underneath can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants help stimulate the bone just like natural roots, maintaining the strength and shape of your face.5. No Impact on Neighboring TeethUnlike traditional bridges, which require filing down adjacent teeth for support, implants are independent. This means your surrounding teeth remain untouched and healthy.6. Easy MaintenanceCaring for dental implants is simple—just brush and floss as you would your natural teeth, and visit Mission Dental for your regular cleanings and checkups. Are Dental Implants Safe? Yes—dental implants are one of the safest and most predictable procedures in dentistry. At Mission Dental, Dr. Jenkins uses advanced technology and gentle techniques to ensure the process is smooth and comfortable from start to finish.We know that undergoing any dental procedure can feel overwhelming, which is why we take the time to explain every step and make sure you feel at ease. Most patients report very little discomfort during recovery, and the results are well worth it. Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Jenkins Choosing the right solution for your smile is a big decision, and we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. If you’re considering dental implants, we invite you to visit us at Mission Dental in Miami, FL for a personalized consultation with Dr. Jenkins.Call us today at 615-366-4141 to learn more or book your appointment. Let us help you rediscover the joy of a full, confident smile.

Emergency Dental Care in Nashville, TN

When it comes to dental emergencies, time is of the essence. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, severe tooth pain, or an unexpected injury, knowing what to do in urgent situations can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health. At Mission Dental, led by Dr. Makeya Jenkins, we understand the anxiety that can come with a dental emergency. Our team is here to guide you through these moments with expert advice, care, and compassion. Located conveniently in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson, we are ready to help you when you need us most. Understanding Common Dental Emergencies Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s crucial to act quickly to avoid long-term damage. Here are some of the most common emergencies we treat at Mission Dental: ToothacheA sudden, sharp, or throbbing toothache can be a sign of an underlying problem such as a cavity, infection, or even gum disease. While the pain may be bearable at first, it can quickly escalate and become severe. Knocked-Out ToothA tooth that has been completely knocked out due to an injury or accident requires immediate attention. The faster you act, the higher the chance of saving the tooth. Cracked or Broken ToothCracked teeth, whether due to injury or chewing on hard objects, can be painful and prone to further damage. Depending on the severity, your tooth may need a dental crown or root canal treatment. Lost Filling or CrownIf you lose a filling or crown, it can expose the sensitive parts of your tooth to air and food, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of infection. Abscesses or InfectionsA dental abscess is an infection that can cause severe pain, swelling, and even fever. It’s essential to seek treatment right away to prevent the infection from spreading. Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency Knowing how to react in an emergency can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage. Here are some practical steps to take: Toothache Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be causing irritation. Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling. Avoid using aspirin directly on the affected area, as it can irritate your gums. Contact Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 to schedule an emergency appointment. Knocked-Out Tooth Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root) to avoid damaging it. Rinse the tooth gently with water to remove dirt (never scrub it). If possible, place the tooth back into its socket. If this isn’t possible, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. Call us at (615) 366-4141 for immediate assistance. Cracked or Broken Tooth Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it. Apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling. Save any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to your appointment. Call Mission Dental immediately to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins. Lost Filling or Crown If you lose a filling, try placing a piece of sugar-free gum into the cavity to temporarily cover it until you can visit the dentist. If you lose a crown, try using dental adhesive (available at most pharmacies) to temporarily place it back. Call Mission Dental to schedule a visit and get a new crown or filling. Abscess or Infection Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on the side of the affected area. Contact Mission Dental immediately to address the infection before it spreads. Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Seek Treatment It’s easy to think that dental issues will resolve on their own, but dental emergencies require professional care. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious problems, such as: Increased pain Tooth loss Spread of infection The need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions At Mission Dental, we encourage patients to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications. Dr. Jenkins and our dedicated team are here to provide timely, compassionate care. How Mission Dental Can Help At Mission Dental, we provide emergency dental care for residents in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson. Our team is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to treat your dental emergency quickly and effectively. Dr. Makeya Jenkins and her team work diligently to alleviate your pain and restore your smile.We also offer flexible scheduling, including emergency appointments. If you find yourself in need of urgent dental care, call us at (615) 366-4141 to book an appointment. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) 1. How do I know if my dental issue is an emergency?If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth, it’s a good indication that you need emergency dental care. When in doubt, call Mission Dental for guidance.2. Can I still save a knocked-out tooth?Yes, if you act quickly (within 30 minutes to 1 hour), there is a good chance the tooth can be re-implanted. Be sure to store the tooth properly and get to the dentist as soon as possible.3. What should I do if I can’t get to the dentist right away?While waiting for your appointment, apply a cold compress, take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended, and avoid eating or drinking in the affected area.4. Do you offer financing for emergency dental care?Yes, we offer flexible payment options, including 0% financing to help manage the cost of your emergency dental care.5. What happens during an emergency dental appointment?During your appointment, Dr. Jenkins will assess your condition, provide pain relief, and recommend the best treatment plan to address the issue. If necessary, she may schedule follow-up visits for more extensive treatment. If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Jenkins and our team are ready to provide the care you need in your time of need. Your smile

Do Dental Implants Hurt? Tips Before and After a Dental Implant in Nashville, TN

Do Dental Implants Hurt? Tips Before and After a Dental Implant Thinking about getting a dental implant but worried about the pain? You’re not alone. At Mission Dental: Makeya Jenkins, DDS, we understand that any dental procedure can cause anxiety, especially if you’re unsure what to expect. The good news is—dental implants are more comfortable than most people think. And with the right care and information, the process can be smooth, safe, and virtually painless.Let’s explore what getting a dental implant is really like, share helpful tips for before and after the procedure, and give you honest answers to the most common questions we hear from patients in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson. What is a dental implant? A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once it’s securely placed in your jawbone, it supports a custom-made crown that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth. Implants are one of the best solutions for restoring your smile, your bite, and your confidence. Do dental implants hurt? This is probably the most common question we hear. The truth is: the procedure itself is not painful. During the implant placement, local anesthesia is used to completely numb the area, so you won’t feel pain—just a little pressure, similar to other routine dental procedures.After the surgery, you might feel mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days. But don’t worry—this is totally normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or a prescription from your dentist. Many patients say the experience is much easier than they expected.At Mission Dental, Dr. Makeya Jenkins and her team are committed to making your implant journey as stress-free and comfortable as possible. Tips Before Your Dental Implant Procedure Being well-prepared can help you feel more confident and relaxed. Here are some tips to consider before your implant appointment: Schedule a consultation: Your first step is to come in for a complete evaluation. Dr. Jenkins will assess your oral health, jawbone condition, and discuss the best treatment plan for you. Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to speak up! Understanding the process helps reduce anxiety. Follow pre-surgery instructions: You might be asked to avoid eating for a few hours or stop taking certain medications temporarily—be sure to follow the guidelines provided by our team. Practice good oral hygiene: A clean, healthy mouth reduces the risk of infection and helps ensure the implant heals properly. Aftercare: Tips for a Smooth Recovery Your body needs time to heal and allow the implant to integrate with your jawbone. Here’s how to take care of yourself post-surgery: Take it easy: Rest for the first 24–48 hours. Avoid strenuous activity and give your body time to recover. Stick to soft foods: Smoothies, soups, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are great options during the first few days. Keep it clean: Gently brush your teeth and follow any mouthwash or rinse instructions from Dr. Jenkins. Avoid smoking: Smoking slows down healing and increases the risk of implant failure. Attend follow-up visits: Your recovery will be monitored closely to make sure everything is healing just right. Compassionate Care, Right Here in Nashville At Mission Dental, we treat every patient like family. Whether you’re coming from Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, or Donelson, our mission is to give you the best care possible in a welcoming and supportive environment.Dr. Makeya Jenkins is passionate about restoring smiles and helping patients feel confident about their dental health. If you’re considering a dental implant, we’ll guide you every step of the way—with expertise, kindness, and care.Ready to take the next step?Call us today at (615) 366-4141 to schedule your consultation and learn if a dental implant is right for you. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Am I a candidate for dental implants if I lost a tooth a long time ago?Yes, you may still be a candidate. Even if your tooth has been missing for years, implants are often possible. Dr. Jenkins will evaluate whether your jawbone is strong enough or if you may need a bone graft.2. How long does a dental implant last?With proper care, a dental implant can last 20 years or more—often a lifetime. Just like natural teeth, implants need good brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.3. How long is the recovery time after getting an implant?Most people feel back to normal within a few days. Full healing, when the implant fuses with the bone, can take 3 to 6 months.4. What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?Leaving a gap can cause nearby teeth to shift, affect your bite, and even lead to jawbone loss. A dental implant helps prevent these problems.5. How much does a dental implant cost?Costs can vary, but we offer 0% financing to make treatment more affordable. During your consultation, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of pricing and options. If you’re ready to restore your smile with a strong, natural-looking dental implant, we’re here to help.Call Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 to book your appointment with Dr. Makeya Jenkins today. Your comfort and confidence are our top priorities.

Our Dental Services in Nashville, TN

At Mission Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care to families and individuals in Nashville, TN, and surrounding areas, including Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson. Led by Dr. Makeya Jenkins, our team offers a full range of dental services, from preventive care to advanced restorative treatments. We believe that everyone deserves a healthy and beautiful smile, which is why we offer 0% financing to make dental care more accessible. General and Family Dentistry for Lifelong Oral Health Regular checkups and cleanings are the foundation of good oral health. At Mission Dental, we provide comprehensive general and family dentistry services, including professional cleanings, exams, and preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants. Whether you need a routine visit or care for the entire family, our team ensures a comfortable and stress-free experience for patients of all ages. Periodontal Therapy to Protect Your Gums Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and it can also affect your overall health. Our periodontal therapy services help prevent, diagnose, and treat gum disease through deep cleanings, scaling and root planing, and personalized treatment plans. If you experience bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, seeking treatment early can help prevent serious complications. Clear Braces for a Straighter Smile If you want to straighten your teeth without traditional metal braces, we offer clear aligners that are nearly invisible, comfortable, and easy to maintain. These braces gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment, making them a great choice for both teens and adults looking to enhance their smile discreetly. Expert Oral Surgery and Dental Extractions Whether you need wisdom teeth removal, complex extractions, or other oral surgical procedures, our skilled team ensures a safe and efficient treatment process. We use advanced technology and sedation options to minimize discomfort and help patients feel at ease during their procedure. Sedation Dentistry for Anxiety-Free Visits We understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful for some patients. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry options to help you relax during your treatment. From mild sedation for general procedures to deeper sedation for complex treatments, we tailor our approach to your needs, ensuring a calm and comfortable experience. Root Canal Therapy to Save Your Teeth If you have a severely decayed or infected tooth, a root canal can save it from extraction. Our root canal therapy removes infected pulp, relieves pain, and restores the natural structure of your tooth. With modern techniques and sedation options, the procedure is comfortable and highly effective. Emergency Dentistry When You Need It Most Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and we’re here to help. Whether you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or a dental infection, our emergency dentistry services provide fast relief and expert care. Call us at (615) 366-4141 for urgent dental treatment. Cosmetic Dentistry for a Stunning Smile If you want to improve the appearance of your smile, our cosmetic dentistry services include teeth whitening, veneers, and smile makeovers. We customize treatments to enhance your confidence and give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Restorative Dentistry to Rebuild Your Smile Missing or damaged teeth can affect your daily life, from eating to speaking confidently. Our restorative dentistry services include dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures to restore function and beauty to your smile. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How often should I visit the dentist? We recommend a checkup every six months for preventive care and early detection of dental issues. 2. Does Mission Dental accept insurance? Yes! We accept most major dental insurance plans and also offer 0% financing for affordable care. 3. Is clear aligner treatment better than traditional braces? Clear aligners are a great discreet alternative to braces, but the best option depends on your unique dental needs. 4. Do dental extractions hurt? With modern anesthesia and sedation, dental extractions are generally pain-free with minimal discomfort. 5. What should I do if I have a dental emergency? Call us immediately at (615) 366-4141, and we will schedule you for urgent care as soon as possible. At Mission Dental, we are dedicated to providing top-quality dental care to the Nashville community and surrounding areas. Whether you need preventive, cosmetic, or restorative treatments, Dr. Makeya Jenkins and our team are here to help you achieve a healthy and radiant smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

nashville dental implants Dr. Makeya Jenkins, DDS. Mission Dental. General, Family, Cosmetic, Restorative, Preventative, Emergency Dentistry. Dentist in Nashville, TN 37217

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

Every patient deserves a beautiful, healthy smile that boosts their confidence. At Mission Dental, we offer restorative dentistry services to bring back your smile and make it even better than before! We can help in Nashville to fix anything from chipped or cracked teeth to problems like missing teeth or discoloration with options such as dental implants. We provide various treatments, and our friendly staff is here to listen and create a personalized plan for you. So don’t delay bringing back your beautiful smile – see us today! Dental implants are a necessary dental procedure that can help restore teeth and enhance oral health. If you are considering getting dental implants, you may have many questions. Fortunately, we are here to help. As your friendly dental providers at Mission Dental, we have outlined everything you need to know about dental implants. What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or periodontal disease. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are made from titanium. These roots are placed into your jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. How Do Dental Implants Work? Dental implants work by fusing to your jawbone over time, which creates a strong and sturdy base for your replacement tooth. Once the implant has appropriately fused, Dr. Makeya Jenkins will attach a replacement tooth or bridge. The process usually takes several months to complete as you must allow the dental implant to osseointegrate with the jawbone. Are Dental Implants Safe? Yes, dental implants are safe and are considered one of the most successful dental procedures, with a success rate of up to 98 percent. They are a safe and durable option for people who want to restore their teeth and improve their overall oral health. What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants? Dental implants offer many benefits, including improved oral health, comfort, and aesthetics. They feel and function like natural teeth, which makes it easier for people to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Additionally, dental implants support your jawbone and prevent it from degenerating, keeping your face youthful and healthy. What is the Procedure for Getting Dental Implants? The procedure for getting dental implants usually involves several steps, including consultation, implant placement surgery, and attachment of the replacement tooth or bridge. Dr. Jenkins will assess your oral health during your consultation and discuss your options. Implant placement surgery involves the placement of the titanium implant into your jawbone, which usually takes one to two hours. We may place a temporary crown to protect the new dental implant until the permanent crown is ready. This temporary crown is vital in ensuring that the implant heals properly. We will check up on the temporary crown regularly, and it should last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how long it takes for the new implant to complete its integration process with the jawbone. Once this process is complete and healing has taken place, and the implant has sufficiently fused with the jawbone, we can place the permanent crown. You can count on me to provide you with optimal care and monitor your progress every step of the way! Quality Dental Implants in Nashville, TN We hope that this guide has helped you understand what dental implants are and why they may be a good option for you. At Mission Dental, we are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients, and we offer a range of dental implant services to help you restore your teeth and improve your overall oral health. If you have any questions or would like to set up a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

nashville tooth extractions Dr. Makeya Jenkins, DDS. Mission Dental. General, Family, Cosmetic, Restorative, Preventative, Emergency Dentistry. Dentist in Nashville, TN 37217

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction Procedure

Sick of dealing with your dental health issues all by yourself? Mission Dental provides comprehensive dentistry that focuses entirely on you and the best possible care for your health. Our mission in Nashville is to ensure you have a healthy smile that will last for years to come, no matter what kind of dental situation you are in, whether it be tooth extractions, root canal therapy, or dental fillings. We strive to provide friendly customer service so you feel comfortable and confident as we guide you through our services. If you need a tooth extraction, call us to schedule a consultation today! Tooth extractions are a standard dental procedure that most people go through at least once in their lifetime. Whether you need to have a tooth pulled due to decay, damage, or overcrowding, Mission Dental makes the process easy and painless. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect during a tooth extraction procedure, so you can feel more comfortable and confident when visiting our dental office. There are quite a few options for avoiding an extraction. Before recommending a tooth extraction, we will do what we can to save your natural tooth. We can fill caries cavities or treat fractured teeth with crowns, or you can opt for a root canal to repair the inner part of the tooth suffering from an infection. Additionally, many times a filling will suffice. Whatever your needs, we’ll use our years of experience and expertise to assess the best treatment option and get you back smiling with as little effort as possible. But sometimes, an extraction is the best option. The first step in a tooth extraction procedure is numbing the area where the tooth will be removed. Dr. Makeya Jenkins will give you a local anesthetic that will dull the pain and make you feel more comfortable during the extraction process. You can expect to feel pressure and pushing as we remove the tooth, but you should not feel any pain. If you are particularly anxious or nervous about the procedure, you may request a sedative to help you relax. Once we remove the tooth, Dr. Jenkins will place gauze on the socket to stop bleeding and help with clotting. We will give you post-extraction instructions, including steps for keeping the area clean and minimizing the risk of infection. You may experience some swelling and pain for a few days, so avoid strenuous activities and eat soft foods until the extraction site has fully healed. If a tooth is impacted or requires more advanced extraction, we may recommend a more complex procedure. For example, a surgical extraction may be necessary if the tooth is situated deep within the gum tissue or is broken and cannot be easily pulled. Dr. Jenkins will make a small incision in the gum tissue during a surgical extraction to remove the tooth. The recovery time for a surgical extraction may be longer than a simple extraction, but we will provide you with detailed instructions on caring for the extraction site. Tooth Extractions in Nashville, TN At Mission Dental, we understand tooth extractions can be intimidating, but we are here to make the process as easy and painless as possible. Whether you need a simple extraction or a more complex procedure, our team will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. We offer emergency dentistry services to help you relieve pain and save your teeth. From general cleanings and check-ups to mouthguards, whitening treatments, and everything in between, our team of experts is here to help keep your teeth looking their most beautiful while protecting them from damage. Plus, if there’s ever an emergency – no problem! Stop waiting around for better dental care – book an appointment at Mission Dental today!