Implant Dentistry - Dental Implants

Payson, Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

Dental Implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth. Whether you are missing a tooth due to a traumatic event such as a tooth fracture or have a tooth that is not restorable, dental implants are very often an excellent and affordable alternative to bridges or partial dentures. Dr. Chris Winterholler can make your implant-supported crown appear just like your natural tooth, restoring your smile to its natural beauty.

What is a dental implant?

You have undoubtedly heard about dental implants in the media. They are a very popular way to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are made of a titanium post that is threaded. It is placed into the jawbone and eventually integrates and fuses to the bone. Once the implant is placed and has fused to the bone, an abutment or post is connected to the implant. An impression is taken of the post and a new dental crown is made in the laboratory.

What if I am unhappy with my denture and desire implants?

Occasionally people are missing more than one tooth or are unhappy with their dentures. When multiple implants are needed it is sometimes possible to connect the implants to a denture. In this case, several implants are placed around the dental arch and then an impression is made for a denture. The denture is then secured in place by the implants. Implant-supported dentures are a very popular alternative to complete dentures.

How are implants done?

There are two phases to implant placement. The first step involves placing the implant in the bone. The implant is placed directly into the bone and a healing collar is placed. The second step involves placing an abutment to the implant. An impression is taken of the abutment and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory then fabricates an implant crown to replace the tooth.

Dr. Chris Winterholler is highly trained in implant placement

Dr. Chris Winterholler has placed thousands of implants successfully since 1998. He first began placing implants in 1995 at Creighton University Dental School. He then attended a year-long Implant Residency in Yorba Linda, California in 1998. Since that time he has placed many implants and is a leading dentist in the concept of Teeth in an Hour.

Using his CEREC machine to mill our crowns in the office he has been able to replace missing teeth for many patients in as little as an hour. He has lectured on implant placement for the Academy of Computerized Dentistry and is an active member of the International Academy of Implant Dentistry.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider the implant dentistry tooth replacement option:

• Thanks to advanced cosmetic dentistry technology, dental implants can very closely resemble natural enamel.
• Implants are designed and placed to last many years, and have helped many patients find a permanent tooth replacement solution.
• Dental implants are inherently strong because they are anchored to the jaw bone.
• The implanted tooth root keeps the artificial tooth stable and functional — there’s no need to avoid everyday foods.
• The cleaning and maintenance problems faced with removable tooth replacement options are avoided.
• The artificial tooth can be matched closely to your natural tooth shade.
• Implanted teeth are comfortable and can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth.
• The presence of an implant may prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, a common occurrence in those with missing teeth which may result in a bad bite or further tooth loss.
• The presence of a dental implant and root may help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
• The custom-made porcelain tooth can be crafted to fit seamlessly into your smile.
• Dental implants can add shape to your face and prevent a “sunken” facial appearance.
• Dental implants can restore confidence, enhance image, and help patients smile more often.

To see how dental implants can create a beautiful, complete smile, visit our Smile Gallery.

Replacing missing teeth is affordable at our Scottsdale, Phoenix and Payson, Arizona, cosmetic dentistry practice. Please call or e-mail our friendly cosmetic dentistry team today to set up a free personal consultation and learn more about the benefits of dental implants.