Expert Advice for North Scottsdale and Scottsdale
If you’re trying to decide between saving a natural tooth or replacing it with a dental implant, you’re not alone. Many patients at Elevation Dental Group in North Scottsdale ask us:
Are dental implants better than natural teeth?
What are the risks and benefits?
How do I know which is right for me?
We believe informed patients make the best choices. Here’s your complete, honest guide to understanding dental implants vs. natural teeth so you can choose what’s best for your smile.
Pros and Cons: Natural Teeth vs. Dental Implants
Natural teeth are made of enamel, dentin, and pulp—offering the most natural bite, feel, and appearance. They can last a lifetime with good care. But they’re prone to:
- Cavities
- Root canal infections
- Gum disease
- Discoloration or shifting over time
Dental implants are advanced restorations consisting of a titanium post, abutment, and crown that mimic natural tooth structure. Benefits include:
- Resistant to cavities
- Typically last 15+ years with proper maintenance
- Custom-shaded for a natural look
- Help prevent bone loss in the jaw after extraction
While implants need healthy gums and bone to succeed, they’re an excellent long-term replacement when a natural tooth can’t be saved.
When Should You Try to Save a Natural Tooth?
Saving your natural teeth is almost always preferred—if the tooth is healthy or can be restored.
Restorative treatments like:
…can help preserve your original smile.
At Elevation Dental Group, we always evaluate every option before recommending extraction. We’re committed to helping patients in Scottsdale and North Scottsdale keep their natural teeth whenever possible.
But sometimes a tooth is too damaged, infected, or unstable to save. That’s when dental implants offer the best next solution.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants do more than replace missing teeth—they help restore full function and prevent future bone loss in your jaw.
Why do so many Scottsdale patients choose dental implants?
- Help preserve jawbone and prevent shrinkage
- Don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support (unlike bridges)
- Feel and look just like real teeth
- Restore chewing ability and confidence
Dr. Bruce Lachot and Dr. Jordan Wachter use cutting-edge implant systems and 3D-guided placement for precision, safety, and comfort throughout your treatment.
Are There Risks with Dental Implants?
While dental implants boast a success rate of over 95%, they’re not completely risk-free.
Considerations include:
- Gum recession can expose implant surfaces over time
- Peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant) can develop without proper hygiene
- Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, or autoimmune diseases can affect healing success
- Surrounding teeth can still shift if other gaps remain untreated
That’s why our team in North Scottsdale works closely with every implant patient to develop customized aftercare plans and maintain regular hygiene visits to support long-term success.
Can Dental Implants Get Cavities or Cause Bad Breath?
✅ Dental implants themselves can’t get cavities.
But plaque can still accumulate on and around the implant crown. Without good oral hygiene:
- Plaque and tartar can lead to gum inflammation or peri-implantitis.
- Bacteria can cause bad breath.
Good habits matter:
- Brush twice daily
- Floss (yes, even around implants!)
- Schedule regular professional teeth cleanings at our North Scottsdale office
Tooth Replacement Options in Scottsdale
At Elevation Dental Group, we believe education and prevention are the keys to maintaining a healthy, confident smile.
If you’re wondering whether to save a tooth or replace it, our team will:
- Perform thorough exams and 3D imaging
- Evaluate your gums, bone health, and bite
- Discuss all options—including root canals, crowns, bridges, and dental implants
We’re here to help you make an informed choice that’s right for your goals, health, and budget.
Still Have Questions About Dental Implants vs. Saving Natural Teeth?
Let’s sit down together and talk about your options in detail. We’ll help you understand every choice so you can make the right decision for your health and smile.
👉 Request Your Consultation in North Scottsdale or call us at 480-515-1000 to get started.
