Get Your Dental Implants in Farmington, NM
At Desert Hills Dental Care, we believe that everyone deserves a beautiful smile that functions perfectly. Missing teeth can significantly impact your confidence, your ability to chew, and your overall oral health. If you are looking for a permanent solution to tooth loss, our experienced team offers state-of-the-art dental implants to restore the integrity of your smile. As the highest-ranked dental practice in the Four Corners area, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a “Smile Lifestyle®” that makes life better.
Whether you have lost a single tooth due to injury or require extensive restoration, our doctors—Dr. Schumacher, Dr. Hilton, Dr. Burgess, and Dr. Collins—are here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. When searching for a dentist’s office near you that prioritizes precision and patient comfort, look no further than our modern Farmington facility.
If you are ready to explore permanent tooth replacement, call our Farmington dentists at (505) 327-4863 to schedule a consultation.
Understanding How Dental Implants Work 
A dental implant is a revolutionary way to replace missing teeth because it addresses the loss of both the root and the crown. It consists of a titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as an artificial root. Over time, this post fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a sturdy foundation for a prosthetic tooth.
Unlike traditional removable options that rest on the gums, implants provide a secure anchor for crowns, bridges, or implant-supported dentures. This stability allows you to eat, speak, and laugh without worrying about your teeth slipping. We encourage you to learn more about dental implants to understand the components and mechanics of this treatment.
The Advantages of Implant Dentistry
Choosing implants over other replacement options offers numerous benefits for your long-term oral health. One of the most significant advantages is the preservation of jawbone density. When a tooth is lost, the bone that once supported it begins to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. Implants mimic natural tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing the sunken facial appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Additionally, implants do not require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, unlike traditional dental bridges, which often require grinding down neighboring teeth for support. With a natural look and feel, implants allow you to enjoy your favorite foods and maintain your oral hygiene routine with ease. Understanding the full range of dental implant benefits can help you make an informed decision about your oral health.
Am I a candidate for implants?
Most patients with missing teeth are eligible for implant dentistry, provided they have generally healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the titanium post. However, certain factors, such as uncontrolled diabetes or heavy tobacco use, can affect healing and the long-term success of the implant.
During your initial evaluation, we utilize advanced 3D imaging (CBCT) to assess your bone structure and oral anatomy with precision. This allows us to determine if you are a candidate immediately or if you might require preliminary treatments, such as bone grafting or periodontal therapy, to prepare your mouth for surgery. You can find more specific information regarding dental implant candidacy on our website.
Do not let missing teeth compromise your health. Call (505) 327-4863 today to speak with our knowledgeable team.
The implant procedure process 
At Desert Hills Dental Care, we strive to make the implant process as seamless and comfortable as possible. The timeline for treatment typically ranges from three to twelve months, depending on your body’s healing rate and the complexity of your case.
1. Consultation and planning
Your journey begins with a comprehensive exam using digital scanners and 3D imaging to create a precise surgical plan tailored to your anatomy.
2. Surgical placement
The titanium implant is placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. We offer various sedation alternatives to ensure you remain relaxed and anxiety-free throughout the appointment.
3. Healing and osseointegration
Over the next few months, the implant bonds with the jawbone. We may place a temporary restoration during this phase so you never have to go without a tooth.
4. Final restoration
Once healing is complete, we attach a custom-crafted crown, bridge, or denture to the implant, completing your smile transformation.
For a detailed walkthrough of what to expect at every stage, we invite you to review the dental implant procedure.
Restoring function and aesthetics
We offer versatile restoration options depending on how many teeth you are missing. For a single missing tooth, a custom porcelain crown is attached to the implant, blending perfectly with your natural teeth. For those missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge provides a secure solution without damaging adjacent teeth.
If you are missing an entire arch of teeth, we can use implants to secure full dentures. Unlike removable dentures that can be uncomfortable or unstable, implant-supported dentures stay firmly in place, restoring nearly all of your original biting force.
To discuss your restoration options, please contact our office at (505) 327-4863.