Caring, Trusted Dental Implant Specialists

The absence of teeth can cause great personal embarrassment, and implant dentistry is one of today’s cutting-edge and efficient solutions for the replacement of missing teeth. Dental implants enable patients to permanently restore a healthy, beautiful smile, and they’re crafted from safe and durable materials, designed to resemble your natural surrounding teeth, ensuring that no one can tell that they’re prosthetics.

Dental Implants Explained

A dental implant is an artificial tooth (or teeth) made up of three parts; a dental implant screw or post, an abutment anchor, and the replacement crown.

• The dental implant screw (or post) – The screw forms the “root” of your new artificial tooth. It’s similar to a small screw and is made of biocompatible, dental-grade titanium. Once in place, the implant fuses with the jawbone, and this fusion helps stabilize the bite and structure of the jaw.
• The abutment anchor – The anchor is a small metal piece that secures the replacement crown to the dental implant screw.
• The replacement crown – This part of the implant replicates the crown of your natural teeth and is composed of the most modern, high-quality dental materials currently available.

The Dental Implant Process Step-by-Step

The dental implant procedure typically begins with a thorough evaluation by your implant dentist to determine your suitability for implants. This includes a comprehensive examination of the mouth, X-rays, and sometimes CT scans to assess bone density and structure.

• Once you’re deemed a good candidate, the first step involves surgically placing the implant screw, usually made of titanium, into the jawbone. This screw acts as a replacement root for the missing tooth.
• The area is then allowed to heal, and during healing the bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration, securing it firmly in place.
• After the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant post. This abutment will hold the new tooth.
• Finally, a custom-made crown, designed to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth, is attached to the abutment.

The result is a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing replacement tooth that looks and feels like a natural tooth. This multi-step process ensures that the implant is stable and durable, providing a long-term solution for missing teeth.

Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be categorized based on the number of teeth they are designed to replace. Here are the different types of dental implants in this context:

1. Dental Impant for One Tooth: Used to replace a single missing tooth. This involves placing one implant in the jawbone and attaching a single crown to it. This is ideal for patients who have lost a single tooth due to injury or decay.

2. Multiple Teeth Replacement: Used when multiple teeth are missing in a row. Instead of placing an implant for each missing tooth, two or more implants are placed to support a bridge that spans the gap.

3. Full Arch Replacement:

• All-on-4 or All-on-6 Implants: Designed for patients who are missing all or most of their teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Four or six implants are strategically placed in the jawbone to support a full arch of teeth.
• Implant-Retained Dentures: Similar to traditional dentures but are supported by and attached to dental implants. This can be done for a full or partial set of teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

The many benefits of implants include:

• Bone Preservation: Implants help maintain the jawbone structure by providing the stimulation that natural tooth roots offer.
• Durability and Longevity: Implants are designed to last many years, often a lifetime with proper care.
• Functionality: Restores full chewing ability, allowing patients to eat their favorite foods without restriction.
• Aesthetics: Provides a natural-looking replacement that blends seamlessly with existing teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

1. How long does the dental implant process take?

Answer: The entire dental implant process can take several months. The initial surgery to place the implant post is followed by a healing period of 3 to 6 months to allow osseointegration. After this, the abutment and crown are placed, which may require additional appointments.

2. Are dental implants painful?

Answer: Most patients report that the discomfort during the dental implant procedure is minimal and comparable to that of a tooth extraction. Local anesthesia is used during the surgery, and post-operative pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

3. How do I care for my dental implants?

Answer: Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to maintain the health of the implants and surrounding gum tissue. Good oral hygiene helps prevent infections and ensures the longevity of the implants.

4. Are dental implants covered by insurance?

Answer: Dental implant coverage varies by insurance plan. While some dental insurance policies may cover part of the cost, others may not. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

5. How long do dental implants last?

Answer: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant may need to be replaced every 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear, but the implant post itself is designed to be a long-term solution.

Family Dental Care – Chicago Area Dental Implant Specialists

If you’re embarrassed and struggling with the effects of tooth loss and think you may be a candidate for dental implants or any of our other services, contact our dental office to schedule your initial consultation.

When you need quality dental restorations or other dental procedures, Family Dental Care is here for you!