Dental Implants Gilbert & Phoenix AZ
What are dental implants?
A natural tooth comprises a root and a crown. Comparing natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth reveals they share similar basic components. Both include a crown, the visible part for chewing, and a root that secures the tooth under the gum and anchors it in the jaw. The distinct feature of the dental implant is that it is made from titanium, a proven material also used for artificial joints by surgeons. When a tooth is lost, both the root and crown are missing. To replace the tooth, the dentist first substitutes the root with a small dental implant made of titanium.
Call us today to request your implant consultation!
Gilbert: (480) 900-0001 Phoenix: (623) 463-2222 Request an AppointmentThe Dental Implant Surgical Procedure
Your first appointment is a consultation with one of the XO dentistry oral surgeons. During this appointment, your overall health, oral health, and medical history will be reviewed during a complete dental exam. We take 3D images of your teeth and jaw and review the best options for your treatment. Once we have developed an appropriate treatment plan, we discuss the best anesthesia options and choose which one you prefer.
Dental implant placement is an in-office procedure. If bone grafts are needed, these will be done a few months before the implants are placed to ensure sufficient healing time. Once the implants are placed, you will need a few months to heal but will follow up with us so we can ensure healing is progressing. When the area is fully healed, a final procedure at our office exposes the implants so the abutments and crowns can be attached. At XO Dentistry, we can do the entire process, from initial consultation to securing the permanent crown, avoiding the need to visit an oral surgeon for the implants and a separate prosthodontist for the crowns.
Surgical Advances in Dental Implants
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Abedi, Dr. Ardalan, Dr. Tarkesh and Dr. Lamb are able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Drs. Abedi, Ardalan, Tarkesh or Lamb performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Healing After Dental Implant Surgery
Healing time varies from person to person, with follow-up appointments needed to ensure proper healing. Additional procedures like soft tissue grafts may be performed for better gum tissue support. Your dentist will fit the replacement crown to the dental implant, completing the restoration. See our After Implant Placement page for more details!
Dental Implants FAQs
Dental implants are the only permanent, fixed solution for missing teeth. At XO Dentistry, we offer implant dentistry in Phoenix and Gilbert for anyone missing one or more of their teeth. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about dental implants to help you better understand how they work and decide if they are right for you.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
- They are permanent and can last a lifetime
- They look and feel like your natural teeth
- You can replace one, several, or all of your teeth with dental implants
- You care for implants the same way you care for your natural teeth
- Implants help preserve your jawbone
- You never have to worry about them slipping or clicking
- You do not have to avoid foods that need to be avoided with dentures and bridges
- Single implants do not require altering the adjacent teeth
How long does it take to get dental implants?
It can take anywhere from six to nine months to get dental implants. This is because healing time is required between the implant procedure and attaching the permanent crowns. If you need bone grafts, this adds several months to the time required. We can usually provide temporary crowns during the healing process to preserve your appearance.
What do dental implants cost?
The cost varies depending on many factors, including how many teeth are replaced, whether bone grafts are needed, the type of implant and crown used, your overall health, and more. It is best to schedule a consultation to get an accurate quote for your implants. One of our oral surgeons will evaluate your teeth and gums and review possible solutions, including various pricing options. We work closely with you and your insurance carrier to find the best possible solution for your missing teeth. Please visit our page regarding the Cost of Dental Implants for a more detailed explanation.
Will I need bone grafts?
It is impossible to say whether you need bone grafts until we do a complete dental examination, including 3D digital imaging of your jawbone and teeth. If you have lost your teeth recently or had them extracted, you may not need any grafts. A robust and healthy jawbone can have multiple implants without any grafting. The longer you wait after losing a tooth, the more the bone around the site degrades, increasing the likelihood you may need bone grafts.
If you need bone grafts because the jawbone ridge has deteriorated, additional surgery is required, adding to the initial cost. For most people, this is covered by dental insurance. We always inform you of the cost before proceeding.
Are dental implants painful?
The surgery is done under some form of anesthesia and numbed with an anesthetic, so you will not feel anything while the implants are placed. Later the same day, the anesthetic will wear off, and you may feel some discomfort. Ice packs, pain medication, and appropriate aftercare minimize any pain, typically lasting only a few days.
Once the area is healed and the permanent crowns are in place, most people report not being so comfortable in years. Dentures are often uncomfortable and painful when they shift or get food caught under them. These issues are never a problem with dental implants, which feel just like your natural teeth.
Does XO Dentistry Have Dental Implants Experience?
Drs. Abedi, Ardalan, and Lamb are all experienced in dental implant procedures. They have performed hundreds of implant procedures and pursue continuing education to ensure they provide their patients with the latest in surgical care and dental implants.
Interested in dental implants? Please call our Gilbert dental office at Gilbert Office Phone Number (480) 900-0001 or our Phoenix dental office at Phoenix Office Phone Number (623) 463-2222 to schedule a consultation.