Dental Implants
Dental Implants Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
What are dental implants?
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw. The difference is that the implant is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.
Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.
“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”
For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.
Surgical Advances in Dental Implants
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Ray is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. Ray performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Canyon State Oral and Dental Implant Surgery
Our Latest Patient Testimonials
I had a consult visit with Dr. Ray regarding implant dentures. Dr. Ray was so caring and honest in his opinion. I highly recommend him to others who are seeking a second opinion. My concern was whether the teeth I had left were worth fixing or get implants. He gave me his honest opinion and I really appreciated that. He does not push unnecessary dental work. Office staff were also very nice.
- Karen B
Our Latest Patient Testimonials
I came to Dr. Ray highly recommended from a friend's Dentist. I am new here to AZ and did not have a dental health care professional in the area. I came to Dr. Ray after falling and breaking off most of my bottom teeth with a temporary appliance that was in my mouth for way to long ( over 12 years). It took a little time to get his team all to all be available on the same day. Totally worth the wait!! I was very nervous to have several teeth extracted and implant surgery... but his team was awesome... I woke up with a new smile with in a few hours. I had very minor pain and only needed over the counter Advil for a few days. I never needed to take the prescription narcotics! I had no bleeding and woke up the next day feeling like a new person. My Best friend that took me for my appointment was also very impressed with Dr Ray and his staff and will be also using him in the future when she is ready for her implant surgery. So far ... overall GREAT EXPERIENCE!
- Carolyn C c
Our Latest Patient Testimonials
I would recommend Dr. Ray and his staff to anyone needing any of his services. There was nothing they left undone or not covered. Thank you.
- Nance D
Our Latest Patient Testimonials
Dr. Ray was amazing! I have a fear in Dental and he made me feel so comfortable, I was not sore at all. And office is beautiful. Thank you Dr. Ray.
- Janella F