5425 E Bell Rd STE 143B, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
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Dental Implants
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Why implants are the most natural and durable way to replace missing teeth

True to our name, dental implants are a priority and not a sideline service at Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our dentists, Drs Dan Indech, Terry Peterson, and Stephanie Troglin, are committed to using only the latest and greatest dental techniques and technologies. These approaches to treatment support the best possible results, as well as a pleasant, comfortable, and convenient experience in your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile. Dental implants are a great fit with this advanced approach.

A smiling woman sits in a dental chair while a dentist cleans her teeth.

What are dental implants?

Implants are used in tooth replacement; they are not the replacement tooth itself. The implant is the part of your new tooth that functions like a root. It is placed in the jawbone. Over the course of several months, the bone and implant grow together. Once this healing and integration process is done, we can restore the implant with a crown. This crown is attached to the implant and represents the part visible above the gumline. Because the crown is attached to the jawbone (through the implant), your tooth is held in place securely. There are many benefits associated with this “design” for your new tooth.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Since this type of restoration accounts for the root of a tooth, implants are the closest thing that we have to natural teeth. A natural structure or “design” supports a natural appearance, feel, and proper function. Implants can be brushed, flossed, and cared for like natural teeth. They are also made to last a lifetime as long as you practice good oral hygiene. While they may cost more upfront, this feature makes them a good value over the long term. Additionally, the implant both replaces a missing tooth and also supports the health of the jawbone.

Why does the health of my jawbone matter?

The supportive bone retains its strength due to the stimulation that it gets from the teeth chewing and grinding down food. When those teeth are lost, the bone no longer receives any stimulation. Like your muscles may shrink during periods of inactivity, your bones can also shrink. The result is a collapse of the structure of your face. You may look prematurely “aged,” and tissues may sag. You may have greater difficulties eating and pronouncing words clearly and properly. Also, denture wearers may find that their appliances no longer fit due to their face’s changing contours and shape. In turn, conventional dentures must be constantly adjusted with services like denture relines to restore the proper fit that supports comfort and healthy function.

These complications of bone loss are avoided with the prompt placement of implants. The force from chewing and other functions is transferred from the crown to the implant secured in the jawbone. So, this important supportive structure stays strong and healthy.

Can you replace many teeth with implants?

Yes. We can replace any number of teeth with implants. One implant with a crown replaces a single tooth. Or, two implants with a dental bridge can replace three teeth. Anywhere from four to eight implants and longer bridges or full-arch bridges may replace four or five teeth or all of the teeth in the upper or lower dental arch. A minimal number of implants may also be applied to “anchor” either a partial or full denture. Many longtime denture-wearers love that they have the freedom to eat even “unforgiving” or chewy foods again, and they can laugh and speak without fear of their denture falling out.

Why should I trust my implants to Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry?

We combine best-in-class technologies with world-class expertise. Our advanced imaging techniques ensure that the implants are placed exactly where they need to be – supporting successful healing. Our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Indech, has also traveled the world in the pursuit of acquiring advanced training in implantology. Over the past two decades, he successfully placed more than 10,000 implants, both for single-tooth replacement and full-mouth reconstruction. You, too, deserve only the best in modern tooth replacement. Contact our Scottsdale, AZ team at (602) 932-6297 to schedule your consultation today.

A woman smiles happily as she receives a teeth cleaning at the dentist's office.
Dan Indech, DDS

At Desert Ridge Periodontics, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Dan Indech, DDS, a board-certified periodontist with more than 30 years of experience in periodontal care, dental implants, and laser surgery. Trained at leading institutions in Canada, the U.S., and Sweden, he has placed over 10,000 implants and is nationally recognized for his work in Implantology and LANAP® laser periodontal therapy.

Dr. Indech and the team deliver compassionate, evidence-based periodontal and implant care focused on long-term oral health and personalized treatment.

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