Dental Implants

• +30 million Americans are missing all their teeth in at least one jaw
• 15 million people in the US have crowns or bridges
• The number of people with implants grows by 500,000 yearly
• 10% of US dentists perform implant procedures
• Dental implants have a 98% success rate

Preparing Dental Implants

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may qualify for dental implants, a permanent solution for missing teeth. When you visit Scottsdale Family Smiles, our dental professionals will examine your mouth and jawbone to determine the appropriateness of dental implants in your situation.

Upon being cleared for the procedure, impressions of your mouth will be taken so that new teeth can be created in our dental lab. When creating dental implants, we match the size, shape, and color of your existing teeth so that your new smile is completely natural.

Installing Dental Implants

After the implant has been created, a dentist will install a metal post under the gumline, which will be used to secure the new tooth to the jawbone. With this connection, the implant will have just as much strength as a natural tooth. After the post has fused to the jaw, the implant can be secured to it.

A dental implant is so strong that it enables patients to return to their everyday activities, including eating their favorite foods, playing sports, and living their best lives.

Dental Implant Care

Dental implants are very easy to care for. Simply take care of them the way you would your natural teeth. Though your implant will not become discolored or develop cavities, it’s important to brush and floss every day so that you can avoid staining, gum disease, and tooth decay affecting your natural teeth.

Pre-Implant Consultation

If you’d like to determine whether dental implants are right for you, give Scottsdale Family Smiles a call at (480) 607-6937 to schedule a consultation. Our team will take the time to review all of your options with you. If you’re hoping to restore your missing teeth, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment and let us transform your smile.

Q. Can I replace two missing teeth with a single implant?

A. Usually, we don’t recommend a single implant to serve two teeth as it interferes with the integrity of both teeth. In cases where two teeth are missing, it’s advisable to have two implants installed rather than one.

Q. Are my sinus issues possibly related to my tooth loss?

A. Possibly. Missing teeth can result in downward growth of the maxillary sinus, which can change the way the sinuses react to allergens. If you’re planning to have teeth replaced in the back of the mouth, you may need to have a sinus elevation procedure performed as well.

Q. Can I still have implants after significant jawbone loss?

A. The sooner dental health issues are addressed, the better. However, due to advances in dental technology, there are more options than ever before when it comes to repairing and replacing teeth.

Q. Do I need an implant for every tooth I’m replacing if I’m missing ALL of my lower teeth?

A. It’s not necessary to have an implant for every tooth being replaced, but the number of implants required will depend on the type of implant being used. A thorough examination will help determine your options when it comes to dental implants.

Q. Are there implant alternatives for patients with too much bone loss?

A. There are several alternatives you may be eligible for, depending on your unique situation.

Q. Can I have a fractured tooth replaced with an implant or do I need a bridge / partial?

A. In some cases, an implant can be used to replace a fractured tooth instead of a bridge or partial.

Q. What should I do if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked out?

A. Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. (Do not scrub or clean it with soap — use only water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket immediately and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with cold milk, saliva or water. Get to the Emergency Dentist immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Q. What should I do if my child’s baby tooth is knocked out?

A. Contact your emergency dental office as soon as possible. The baby tooth should not be replanted because of the potential for subsequent damage to the developing permanent tooth.

Q. What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?

A. Contact your Dentist immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling if the lip also was injured. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, place it in cold milk or water and bring it with you to the dental office.

Q. What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?

A. You need immediate medical attention. Keep in mind that an emergency medical team might be able to reach you faster than you can get to the hospital. A severe head injury can be life-threatening.

Q. What if my child has a toothache?

A. Call our office immediately. Over-the-counter children’s pain medication, dosed according to your child’s weight and age, might ease the symptoms. You may apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth to the face in the area of the pain, but do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.