An implant dentist is a dental professional who is qualified to place surgical fixtures that anchor dental prostheses. Implant dentistry offers patients a permanent, comfortable, and effective way to improve their mouths’ look and function. Implants allow the placement of dental prostheses such as replacement teeth, crowns, and bridges in the jaw.

Implant dentistry is available at Desert Bloom Dentistry in Safford and the surrounding area. Our team can help you restore your smile’s appearance and function. Call us today at (928) 428-1617 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Implant Dentist Qualifications

According to the American Dental Association, all dentists are qualified to place dental implants. While it is legal for any licensed dentist to place dental implants, implant dentists have more advanced training and experience. Dentists who specialize in implants receive more formal training and education to perform these procedures with a high degree of success.

Implant dentists have additional training and experience with anticipating, diagnosing, and treating surgical complications. Since implant dentists focus on implant procedures, they perform them more often than general dentists. Their extensive experience provides patients with a safety and comfort level that does not exist when dentists with less training and experience perform these procedures.

“While it is legal for any licensed dentist to place dental implants, implant dentists have more advanced training and experience.”

Dental Implants Procedures

Dental implant procedures involve inserting an implant to act as an artificial root, anchoring a custom restorative device. There are two major types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most commonly used dental implant and are placed in the jawbone. They are usually made of titanium and shaped like small screws.

Subperiosteal implants are implants that we put under the gum but not in the jawbone. This type of implant is best for patients who do not have enough healthy natural jawbones and cannot undergo a procedure to rebuild it. In other cases, we can rebuild the bone through a bone augmentation, a sinus lift, or a ridge expansion to provide a sturdy foundation for an implant.

“Dental implant procedures involve inserting an implant to act as an artificial tooth root, anchoring a dental restoration.”

Dental Implants Vs. Dentures

Dental implants and dentures are both common options to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are a permanent solution to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and some gum tissue.

Many patients often opt for implants due to their natural appearance and function. However, people must have healthy gums and jaws to receive a dental implant. Dentures may be the right choice for patients who have gums or jaw that are weak or unhealthy.

“Many patients often opt for implants due to their natural appearance and function.”

Alternative Implant Options

Implant-supported crowns are a popular solution for missing teeth, but they are not the only option available. Implant dentists can also provide implant-supported dentures or bridges. While crowns replace one missing tooth at a time, bridges can restore multiple missing teeth at once. The number of implants placed will depend on the bridge size.

Dental implants hold the bridge securely so that it feels and functions just like natural teeth. Unlike conventional dentures that sit on the gums, implant-supported dentures are more stable and versatile. This restorative appliance tends to fit better and feels more comfortable than traditional dentures while preserving the jawbone and preventing further bone loss.

“Implant dentists can also provide implant-supported dentures or bridges.”

When To Seek an Implant Dentist

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, almost anyone missing at least one tooth can receive a dental implant once facial growth and development are complete. To qualify for an implant, the person should be in good general health with healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. They must also have good oral hygiene and attend regular dental visits.

People with one or more missing teeth can benefit from receiving treatment from an implant dentist. In some severe tooth loss cases, an implant dentist can replace all of a patient’s teeth. Dental implants can significantly improve the quality of life of a patient with missing teeth. These restorations can improve the appearance, function, and feel of teeth and help people eat, speak, and feel confident.

“People with one or more missing teeth can benefit from receiving treatment from an implant dentist.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the success rates of implant dentist procedures?

A. The success rate of dental implant procedures is typically very high. However, the success rate is affected by the patient’s oral hygiene and the implant location. Implant procedures have a success rate of up to 98%.

Q. Are dental implants removable?

A. No, dental implants are generally not removable. Unlike dentures, implants are fixed permanently in the jaw or skull. They are permanent additions to your mouth and function like normal teeth. A dentist can take them out if medically necessary.

Q. Why do people prefer to see implant dentists for replacement teeth?

A. There are many benefits to receiving dental implants. Many patients report opting for implants because they are the most similar to real teeth. They have a more natural look, feel, and function than other tooth-replacement options.

Q. Are dental implant procedures safe?

A. Dental implants are safe and effective tooth replacements. Like any other surgical procedure, there is a possibility of experiencing complications. Following all aftercare instructions will help to reduce the likelihood of complications arising from implant surgery.

Q. How do I take care of my new teeth after seeing an implant dentist?

A. You can care for your dental implants the same way you take care of your other teeth. Brushing and flossing daily and regular cleaning and check-ups at the dentist will ensure that implants stay in good condition. Implants have the potential to last for several decades if cared for properly.

Quality Dental Services Can Transform Your Smile

By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.

Dental Terminology

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums, and/or bite.

Decay

Tooth decay is when the enamel of the tooth begins to decay and causes erosion from plaque and tartar on the teeth.

Dental Caries

Dental caries are also known as cavities and result from a lack of proper oral hygiene leaving plaque that forms tiny holes in the teeth.

Dental Checkup

A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection, and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.

Dental Filling

A dental filling involves restoring the structure of the tooth by using metal, alloy, porcelain or plastic to fill the tooth.

Dental Prophylaxis

A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants contain a resinous material that we apply to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth to prevent dental caries.

Dentist

A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.

Tartar

Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.

Tooth Enamel

Tooth enamel is the protective, visible outer surface of a tooth that contains the dentin and dental pulp.

Call Us Today

If you have a chipped tooth, do not panic. Our team at Desert Bloom Dentistry can help restore a chipped tooth’s function and appearance. Call us today at 928-428-1617 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Helpful Related Links

• American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2021
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2021
• WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2021

About Our Business, License, and Website Security

• Desert Bloom Dentistry was established in 2022.
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• We serve patients from the following counties: Graham County, Greenlee County, and Cochise County.
• We serve patients from the following cities: Safford, Thatcher, Pima, Central, Solomon, Morenci, Duncan, Willcox, Fort Thomas, and Bylas.
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