Restorative Dentistry
Dentistry of Arizona is committed to offering a full range of dentistry services. Whether you’ve had repairs or need a complete replacement, we recommend continual check-ups to assess your gums and bone density to assess the surrounding areas associated with your implant.
Dental Implants
When you have missing teeth, an alternative solution to dentures is dental implants. While dentures are removable, dental implants provide permanent new teeth to restore your mouth’s function and appearance. Dental implants tend to offer a successful and lasting solution to the loss of some or all of your teeth.
Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. They act as closely to natural teeth as possible. At Dentistry of Arizona in Surprise, we are happy to evaluate and discuss if dental implants are an option for you.
What is a dental implant?
Dental Implants are typically the ideal solution to replacing a missing tooth or several teeth. A dental implant is a titanium tooth root substitute that can replace a natural tooth that has been lost due to trauma, fracture, decay, or severe gum (periodontal disease). A dental implant consists of three parts: the implant itself which is surgically placed under the gums and solidifies to your jaw bone; an abutment, which is the foundation on which your new tooth will be seated; and a porcelain crown, which is the tooth that is visible above the gum.
What are the benefits of a dental implant versus other options?
- Dental implants generally last a very long time because they cannot get cavities. They are made from titanium and the crown is made from porcelain
- Dental implants keep "a one tooth problem a one tooth problem." We do not need to do anything to adjacent teeth like we would if we did a bridge. A Bridge would require us to drill and prepare the adjacent teeth. No other teeth are affected when a dental implant is used.
- Dental implants can replace many missing teeth
- Dental implants can support a bridge for the replacement of multiple missing teeth
- Dental implants can stabilize loose or uncomfortable traditional dentures. Dentures can be challenging to use since the rock and wobble. When they are stabilized by implants, patients find that the dentures are better anchored and stay in place while they chew and talk
- Dental implants give new teeth that both look and feel natural
- Dental implants do not need to be removed
How much do dental implants cost?
Our treatment coordinator will review dental implant cost that is customized to your insurance plan or cash payment. Each insurance plan differs in how much they will cover for your dental implant and they may vary in restrictions. For patients without dental insurance, we offer a helpful Dentistry of Arizona Membership Club that can help make treatment more affordable. In general, a dental implant, abutment, and crown (without the need for additional bone grafting or sinus lifts during surgery to make the implant successful) is around $4000 per tooth.
We are excited to meet with you and discuss if dental implants are the best solution for you.
Bridges
When your teeth are missing, it greatly affects your smile. At the same time, the missing tooth has the potential to negatively affect your oral hygiene because of unprotected gum exposure. Dental bridges are one of many options aimed at improving the appearance and function of your teeth by replacing the missing tooth or teeth. During your exam, we will discuss whether or not dental bridges are right for you.
When your teeth are missing, it greatly affects your smile or chewing function. At the same time, the missing tooth has the potential to negatively affect the remaining teeth as they can begin to shift and become uneven. Dental bridges are one of many options aimed at improving the appearance and function of your teeth by replacing the missing tooth or teeth. During your exam, we will discuss whether or not dental bridges are right for you.
A dental bridge consists of an artificial porcelain tooth connected to a set or crowns used to fill a gap created by one or more missing teeth. At Dentistry of Arizona in
Surprise, Dr. Ewell will create a custom tooth bridge for your mouth that will look and function like your natural teeth. We use either all porcelain bridges or porcelain bridges with a metal substructure. Dr. Ewell will determine which material of bridge is most suitable for long-term success in your unique situation.
During your first appointment for a bridge, Dr. Ewell gets the area numb and uses a dental hand piece to prepare the neighboring teeth that are adjacent to the missing tooth. These neighboring teeth are going to support and act as anchors for the bridge. Next, an impression is taken of the prepared teeth. The impression is used to fabricate a model or your mouth on which the final bridge is made. Our skilled dental assistants will make a temporary bridge made from acrylic which you will wear while the laboratory makes your porcelain bridge. At your second visit, the temporary bridge is gently removed and the final bridge is cemented.
A bridge is not removable and gives you excellent chewing function. It is important that you floss underneath the bridge to prevent cavities. Dr. Ewell and team will instruct you on how to clean around and under your bridge. When kept clean, bridges last for many years.
Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are considered a conservative method of treating damaged teeth. They are used instead of placing a crown. Some dentists even use inlays and onlays to treat tooth decay. Instead of filling in the tooth, your dentist may use dental inlays and onlays.
Dental inlays and onlays are made in a dental lab and then fitted to your tooth. They are then bonded to your tooth.