Missing a tooth can make you chew carefully, smile less, or put up with a denture that never feels secure. Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth, so your new teeth look natural, feel stable, and let you eat the foods you enjoy.
At High Desert Oral Surgery & Implant Center, Dr. Brown “Skip” Harris, III, and our team place dental implants for patients across Cave Creek and the North Valley, whether you’re replacing one tooth or a full arch.
What are Dental Implants?
A natural tooth has two parts: the root, anchored in your jaw, and the crown you see when you smile. When you lose a tooth, you lose both. A dental implant replaces the root with a small titanium post, the same time-tested material surgeons use for artificial joints.
Over time, the bone heals and bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation. A support post called an abutment attaches to the implant, and your new crown sits on top.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
Most adults who are missing one or more teeth can be evaluated for implants. At your consultation, we review your health history and use 3D imaging to see the bone where the implant would go.
If you’ve lost bone after a missing tooth, you may still be a candidate. Learn how bone grafting for implants can rebuild the area, and compare implants with bridges and dentures on our replacing missing teeth page.
What Happens During Implant Treatment?
Your treatment plan depends on how many teeth you’re replacing and the health of your jawbone. For a step-by-step look at surgery and healing, see our overview of implant placement.
Single-Stage Implants and Temporary Teeth
Our team can often place single-stage implants, which don’t need a second procedure to uncover them. These implants need at least six weeks to heal before we attach your permanent teeth. In some cases, an implant can be placed at the same visit as a tooth extraction, and a temporary tooth can often be attached right after the implant is placed.
A Team Approach With Your Dentist
Implant treatment is a partnership. Our team performs the implant surgery, any tooth extractions, and bone grafting if needed. Your dentist designs and places your permanent replacement teeth, as well as any temporary teeth you wear while you heal. Dentists can send patients to us through our referral form.
Options for One, Several, or All of Your Teeth
- One missing tooth: a single implant and crown replaces the tooth without reshaping the adjacent teeth.
- Several missing teeth: implants can support a bridge, so you need fewer implants than missing teeth.
- All upper or lower teeth: implants can hold a full set of teeth in place. See your options for missing all upper or lower teeth, including an implant-supported overdenture.
Will I Be Comfortable During Surgery?
Yes. We use local anesthesia for every procedure, and office-based general anesthesia through an IV is available for all types of oral surgery. Most people who choose a dental implant choose general anesthesia, so they’re asleep and unaware of the procedure. Learn more about your anesthesia options and how to prepare with our pre-operative instructions.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Cost depends on how many teeth you’re replacing, whether you need grafting or extractions first, and the type of replacement teeth your dentist recommends. You’ll receive a personalized estimate at your consultation. Read more about the cost of dental implants, including financing, and check our insurance information.
Visit Our Cave Creek Office
Our office is at 30012 North Cave Creek Road, Suite 103, at Tatum Boulevard, just north of Carefree Highway. It’s an easy drive for patients from Carefree, Tramonto, Desert Hills, and North Scottsdale.
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Contact our Cave Creek office.
Dental Implant FAQs
Can I Get a Temporary Tooth the Same Day?
Often, yes. In many cases, a temporary replacement tooth can be attached right after the implant is placed. Your surgeon will tell you at your consultation whether this works for your case.
How Long Before My Permanent Teeth Are Placed?
Single-stage implants need at least six weeks of healing before permanent teeth are attached. Your timeline depends on your bone and the type of restoration.
Do I Need a Referral?
No. Many patients are referred by their dentist, but you can also schedule a consultation directly.
What Happens After Implant Surgery?
You’ll go home with care instructions, and your dentist will plan your replacement teeth. See our after-implant-placement FAQ for answers about healing, cleaning, and how long implants last.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
The first step is a conversation about your teeth, your goals, and your options. Call (480) 575-0844 or request an appointment online.