Dental implants offer a tooth replacement option that closely imitates natural teeth, making them a very effective long‑term solution. Desert Bloom Dentistry in Safford offers dental implants, serving Safford and surrounding areas. Call our team at (928) 428‑1617 to learn more about this service and schedule an appointment.

Dental implants can be a good choice for many patients with missing teeth. Dental implants allow new teeth to feel, look, and function naturally. Here are some key benefits of dental implants:

• Comfortable: Dental implants act as tooth roots and stay firmly in place. This firm foundation makes them more comfortable than dentures and other replacement tooth options. Many patients report that implants feel similar to their natural teeth.
• Functional: The stability of implants makes them effective for eating, talking, and cleaning. They function similarly to the teeth they are replacing. Less permanent options may interfere more with daily life.
• Permanent: Dental implants are one of the most permanent tooth replacement options. They can last a lifetime with good care. Additionally, fixed replacement teeth on implants do not need to be removed every day for cleaning.
• Natural‑looking: Implant‑supported replacement teeth look like natural teeth. The visible part of the dental implant is a cosmetic crown made from a composite material that is color‑matched to the patient’s tooth enamel. It can be hard to tell the difference. Many patients enjoy dental implants’ aesthetic appeal, as others cannot tell the difference between the replacement and natural teeth.

Most healthy individuals are good candidates for dental implants. However, a consultation with our dentist is necessary to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Patients with weak jawbones may require a bone graft to support the implant.

• Missing Teeth: Ideal for individuals with one or more missing teeth.
• Tooth Extraction: If a tooth must be extracted, an implant can replace it.
• Enhancing Aesthetics: For those looking to improve their smile’s appearance.
• Stability: Dental implants offer superior stability over other tooth replacement options like dentures.

There are several types of dental implants, including:

• Endosteal Implants: Placed directly into the jawbone, ideal for most patients.
• Subperiosteal Implants: Positioned on top of the jawbone and suitable for patients with insufficient bone height.
• Zygomatic Implants: Used when there is not enough bone in the upper jaw; these implants are anchored in the cheekbone.

Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots to support new replacement teeth. During the procedure, an incision is made in the patient’s gum to expose the bone where the implant will be placed. We will then insert the implant and suture the gum around the implant post. In some cases, a temporary denture is used instead of replacement teeth.

Following the surgery, the bone needs to heal around the dental implant. This process can take several weeks or months. Once it is sufficiently strong, a dentist can fit the permanent replacement teeth. For patients with weak jawbones, a bone graft may be needed to ensure sufficient strength. After the bone has healed, an abutment connects a crown or dentures to the dental implant.

Caring for dental implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth, especially if the replacement teeth are permanent. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash are necessary for maintaining proper oral hygiene with implants. Getting regular checkups and teeth cleanings at the dentist is important for taking care of replacement teeth.

Dental implants may require extra cleaning to keep them in optimal condition. Removable, implant‑supported dentures should be taken out at night and soaked in a denture solution. Patients can also use an oral irrigator to help clean below and around the dental implants.

Following the procedure, it is common to have swelling and discomfort around the implantation site. Some patients may experience minor bleeding and bruising of the skin and gums in the treatment area. These side effects can be managed with pain medication and antibiotics if necessary. Patients can expect such side effects to subside after a few days.

After receiving dental implants, it is best to stick to eating soft foods while the bone heals. Most dental implant procedures use dissolvable stitches, so patients will not have to come back to get them removed. These stitches will usually fall out within seven to ten days. Following the aftercare instructions and advice will help the healing process.