Chicago Dental Implants

When it comes to Chicago dental implants, you have a lot of options for services. But you want to make sure you find the right team to provide the best dental care and service. Your smile depends on it.

Your Chicago Dental Implants Specialists

Our cosmetic dentistry team is composed of prosthodontists. We have received extra schooling to further our education and better understand what it takes to help each patient in the best way possible. This tooth replacement procedure is integral to both the functionality and aesthetic of your smile.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a biocompatible replacement for the roots of missing teeth. These titanium posts resemble a screw-in appearance, and once anchored in the jawbone, can support prosthetics that replace the missing visible surfaces of teeth.

Dental implants anchor prosthetics permanently so that patients with tooth loss can enjoy increased oral function and improved smile aesthetics. As providers of dental implants, our team knows what it takes to make the surgery a success, providing a healthy, sturdy smile for years to come.

Single Tooth Replacement

A single dental implant is normally used to replace one damaged or missing tooth. With time, the bone surrounding the implantation site will fuse to the titanium post of the implant.

This process of bone integrating to metal is one of the reasons dental implants created long-lasting replacement teeth. After the implant is stabilized, the custom-made prosthetic is attached with an abutment. The prosthetic for single tooth replacement is a custom dental crown, normally made from porcelain or porcelain fused to metal for its lifelike qualities.

Dental implants can also be used to anchor a bridge when more than one tooth is missing.

Full Arch Replacement

When a series of implants are placed, they can support a full arch of teeth. When a denture is anchored to implants, it will not move or slide throughout the mouth. Normally, a series of four dental implants are adequate to hold a custom denture permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Q: What leads to the need for a dental implant?

A: There are a wide variety of reasons that a patient may need a dental implant. Missing teeth can be the result of the following:

• Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the result of your enamel becoming softer, ultimately damaging the structure of the tooth itself. Acids are created when the plaque and bacteria begin to break down the sugar in your mouth. If this plaque isn’t treated in a timely manner, it can result in a cavity, or a hole in your tooth. When cavities aren’t treated, the holes can become even larger, with the potential to destroy the entire tooth.
• Gum disease: Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is a gum infection that’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing. A sticky film of bacteria may congregate over your teeth and harden, making it even more difficult to remove.
• Dental injuries or trauma: Dental trauma refers to a wide variety of circumstances including tooth fractures, enamel fracture, cracked teeth, abscessed teeth or knocked-out teeth.

Q: What are the benefits of a dental implant?

A: When suffering from tooth loss, many people find themselves struggling to choose the right fix for their issues. This is where dental implants can play a significant role. By replacing the need for people to seek out traditional dentures and bridges, dental implants have become one of the most trusted methods offered to patients who suffer from the loss of teeth due to tooth decay, periodontal disease or in some cases, injuries. When looking at all the factors, many patients realize choosing the best implant dentist is the best choice they can make for their overall oral health.

The benefits of dental implants are numerous. One of the most noticeable is the change in appearance. Often, people who suffer from tooth loss, no matter the reason, feel themselves suffering in confidence levels. By receiving dental implants, this is no longer an issue. Patients once again feel like themselves, eager to share their smile without worry. Many patients who seek these implants also notice a change in their speech patterns. Without the issue of slippage that can come from dentures, dental implant patients have clearer speech and a lack of slurring that can be a direct result of dentures that aren’t as form-fitting as implants. Eating also becomes easier for those who have dental implants. No longer does someone have to worry about chewing foods because of tooth loss. These durable implants allow a patient to chew easily and without any issue. Possibly the biggest benefit of choosing the best implant dentist to handle your tooth loss issue is the improvement in overall oral health. These implants don’t affect other teeth and often offer patients a better sense of oral hygiene.

Q: When is a bone graft required?

A: Some patients may not have enough natural jaw bone left in order to properly support the implant. In this case, we will utilize a bone graft to prevent the implant from failing from the start; your mouth naturally creates a powerful force when biting down, so if your jaw bone is not able to support the implant, the surgery will likely fail.

There are different options from where we can take bone in order to better prepare your mouth for the surgery. Our dentist in Lakeview may take bone from a different area of your body or use a synthetic bone graft using a bone-substitute material. In the case that you need a bone graft, factor in a few extra months before the procedure to make sure there is enough new bone to support the dental implant.

Q: What’s involved in the placement process?

A: Receiving a dental implant involves minor oral surgery to place the titanium component into the bone. Normally, this procedure is not overly invasive, and patients are comfortable with local anesthetics and/or mild sedatives. Before an implant or series of implants are placed, our prosthodontist will utilize advanced technology such as three-dimensional diagnostic imagery to plan the treatment process and develop a deep understanding of their patient’s unique oral anatomy. By using the latest diagnostic technology and taking a highly customized approach to treatment, our patients enjoy high-quality smile restorations with minimal downtime.

Q: What is the recovery process like?

A: Because of our advanced technology and cutting-edge techniques, we are able to minimize downtime in patients who have received a dental implant. You may experience minor discomforts such as facial and gum swelling, minor bleeding or some pain at the implant site. We recommend eating soft foods while you are recovering, and we can provide you with the necessary medications to reduce pain and swelling.

Q: How can I properly care for my dental implant?

A: The majority of dental implants near Lakeview are successful. When cared for properly, dental implants can last a lifetime. Make sure you continue to practice excellent oral hygiene habits that will benefit both your natural teeth and your dental implant. Visit your dentist regularly and avoid damaging habits like chewing on hard objects.

Dental Implant Customer Testimonial

“This place is over-the-top outstanding. From the time I walked in the front door, the entire staff was sensitive, caring and friendly. I hate going to the dentist and at Chicago Dental Design I was relaxed and comfortable. The doctor was up to date on the latest research and I didn’t feel pressured into having any of the work done. I was told all of my options and cost before the work was started. I am referring my friends, and my kids will be going to Chicago Dental Design.”

We pride ourselves on providing our patients with the highest-quality care in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Read more about dental implants and whether or not you may be a good candidate.

Contact Our Team at Chicago Dental Solutions Today

To learn more about dental implants and your tooth replacement options, call our office to reserve an appointment with one of our prosthodontists or dental implant specialists.

We are pleased to offer the best dental implant services to the people of the Chicago area, including River North, Midway and those in the 60632, 60657 and 60611 area codes.