Dental Implants Specialist

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are permanent replacements for teeth that are loose, missing, or severely decayed and require extraction. Implants can replace one, several, or all of your teeth during a smile makeover. Dental implants are made of titanium posts, which Dr. Kraft surgically implants into your jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. 

Dental crowns that attach to the posts look and function like natural teeth. The Payson Dental and Orthodontics team uses Nobel Biocare and Zimmer dental implant technology, along with minimally invasive implant placement procedures.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Dr. Kraft lets you know if you’re a good candidate for dental implants after reviewing your medical and dental history, examining your mouth, and taking dental X-rays. You might first require tooth extraction prior to getting dental implants, and you must be willing to commit to several months of healing after implant placement.

What happens during implant placement?

During dental implant procedures, Dr. Kraft numbs the treatment area so you don’t feel any pain. He surgically places implants into your jawbone, where they can remain for a lifetime. If you don’t have enough bone or your jawbone is weak, a bone graft might be necessary prior to implant placement. 

After the implants are in place, your jawbone heals around them over time. This healing period may take 6-12 weeks. When it’s complete, Dr. Kraft attaches connector posts to the implants to support new artificial teeth. He digitally scans your mouth to create Cerec® same-day crowns. 

When the crowns are ready, Dr. Kraft permanently secures them to connector posts on the implants. Crowns look, feel, and function like your natural surrounding teeth and remain securely in place long-term. Dr. Kraft can also attach bridges, partial dentures, or complete dentures to dental implants. He customizes each smile makeover to meet your unique needs.

How should I care for dental implants?

Dental implants can last a lifetime when cared for properly. Brush your teeth two times daily, floss every day, and see the Payson Dental and Orthodontics team for routine dental cleanings and exams. Avoid chewing on ice and other hard objects, and call Dr. Kraft if your implants get damaged.

Don’t live with imperfect or missing teeth when you don’t have to. Schedule an appointment with Payson Dental and Orthodontics over the phone or online to find out if dental implants are right for you.