To replace a missing tooth, our Phoenix, AZ dentist will typically recommend getting an implant.
An implant is a sterile, surgical-grade, titanium post that’s inserted into your bone just like a tooth root. It mimics the root of your missing tooth; typically, a crown (natural-looking artificial tooth) is attached to the implant, as it’s usually used for single tooth replacement.
Getting a dental implant in Phoenix is typically a multi-step procedure that takes several months to complete. But done correctly, it can last the rest of your life. To help you know what to expect in the process, here is an outline of a general implant treatment.
The Consultation
If you have a missing tooth and are considering having it replaced with a dental implant, our Phoenix dentist will first have to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
Since the implant sets into your jaw, having a sufficient amount of healthy bone is imperative. We check this by taking a 3-D CT scan of your mouth. We’ll also look for any anatomy (nerves, sinus cavity, other teeth, etc.) that might interfere with us placing an implant in that area.
At your consultation, Dr. Behbahani also make sure that your surrounding teeth, gums, and overall “you” are healthy enough to undergo the treatment process.
If we determine that we can, in fact, place an implant in that area, we may have to special order the right size for your mouth or make a custom splint that will guide your implant into the exact position we want it to go at the time of your surgery.
Placing Your Implant
Sometimes, we may prescribe medication to take in preparation for your implant procedure. Typically, it’s an anti-bacterial mouthwash, an antibiotic, a steroid, an anti-inflammatory, and/or a sedative.
We often complete implant procedures with conscious sedation, meaning you’ll take a pill that make you feel relaxed while we do the rest. Because of the sedative, you won’t be able to drive yourself home. Bring someone that can chauffeur and stay with you at home while you recover.
Implant Integration Period
Once your implant is placed, your body will do the rest. The jawbone will fuse to the implant, securing it tightly and permanently. This is a natural occurrence which will take about eight weeks to accomplish. We call it “osseointegration.”
To check on your integration progress, you’ll come in every few weeks for us to take a small X-ray of the area. When the integration is complete, Dr. Behbahani will proceed with placing your restoration.
Scan and Crown Placement
To create your crown, we’ll use a 3-D scanner to record a digital replica of the implant and surrounding teeth. This image will allow us to design and fabricate your custom same-day dental crown while you wait or catch up on other dental work. Once the restoration is ready, we’ll bond it over your implant and the process will be completely finished!
Dental Implants in Phoenix, Arizona
If you’re missing a tooth and want to see if you’re a good candidate for a dental implant, then come see Dr. Babak Behbahani of Central Valley Dentistry in Phoenix, Arizona today. His extensive past in dental implant therapy makes us your ideal choice for smile rehabilitation!
