FAQs about Dental Implants

Are you curious about dental implants? Would you like to be rid of your partial denture or span the gap left by last year's extraction? Here at Superstition Mountain Dental in Gold Canyon, AZ, Dr. Jonathan Lovell and Dr. Matthew Scheerhorn offer dental implants and implant-supported prosthetics. Read on to learn how you can achieve a beautiful, stable smile with these amazing tooth replacements.

FAQs about dental implants from our Gold Canyon office

How does a dental implant differ from a single-tooth bridge? A dental implant from your Gold Canyon dentist is anchored right in the jawbone, just as a natural tooth root is. This in contrast to a conventional bridge, which is attached to adjoining teeth with porcelain crowns and only rests on top of the gums.

Do dental implants strengthen bone? Yes, they do. Dental implants improve jawbone quality every time you bite and chew. How does this happen? The titanium metal in each dental implant attracts bone cells in the jaw. Over time, the bone literally wraps around the rough surface of the implant. This active process is called osseointegration.

My dentist says the bone in my jaw is thin. Can I still receive an implant? Dr. Lovell or Dr. Scheerhorn may be able to build up the bone with donor tissue. After it's fully healed, the implant treatment begins. Your dentist will examine your mouth and do special digital scans to determine if your bone structure and overall health are sufficient for dental implant placement.

I have my implant in place. How long will it be before I receive the post and porcelain crown? Although each case is different, osseointegration usually takes a few months to complete.

How will my implant last? Most last for 40 to 50 years, according to the Institute for Dental Implant Awareness. However, just as natural teeth need good at-home and in-office care, so does your implant. Additionally, a tobacco-free lifestyle helps keep gums and bone around the implant healthy.

I have extensive tooth loss. Can dental implants help me? Implant-supported dentures have become more and more popular over the years. During this treatment, your dentist will insert two, four, or even six devices per arch depending on need.

Interested? Give us a call

Why not come in and learn how dental implants can help your personal appearance and oral function? Phone us for a consultation: (480) 671-7777.