Tooth replacement has been transformed by dental implants, allowing patients to restore teeth with the most naturally functioning option. Dental implants have a unique structure, replacing both the crown of the tooth and the tooth root. They offer some significant benefits for your long-term dental health.
Dr. Gayed and Dr. Shaw are experienced in helping patients with missing teeth or needing to have a tooth extracted and replaced. They will take the time to fully understand the condition of your oral health and your personal needs and goals when creating a treatment plan. The best solution is the one that supports your dental health, your quality of life, and your budget. Tooth implant procedures are one of the restorative dentistry treatments we provide to the public in Lincoln Park, IL.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many advantages over other tooth replacement options. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, improving both oral health and quality of life. Here are some key benefits of dental implants:
Reduced Bone Loss
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can shrink over time because it no longer has a root to support. A dental implant is placed directly into the jawbone, just like a natural tooth root. This helps stimulate the bone and prevent it from breaking down. By preserving the bone, implants help maintain the natural shape of your face and jaw, preventing a sunken or aged appearance.
Natural Chewing Function
Unlike dentures, which may slip or make it difficult to chew certain foods, dental implants provide a strong, stable bite. The implant fuses with the jawbone so it feels as secure as a natural tooth. This means you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worry—whether it’s a crunchy apple, a juicy steak, or a chewy bagel.
Clear and Confident Speech
Missing teeth or loose-fitting dentures can make it hard to speak clearly. Because implants are securely placed in the jaw, they don’t move or shift when you talk. This allows for natural, clear speech, so you can speak confidently in any situation—whether in conversations, at work, or during social gatherings.
Supports Overall Dental Health
Dental implants not only replace missing teeth but also help keep the rest of your mouth healthy. Unlike traditional bridges, which require grinding down neighboring teeth for support, implants stand on their own and do not put stress on surrounding teeth. They also don’t cause gum irritation or discomfort from movement, like removable dentures can. By acting like a natural tooth, an implant keeps your bite strong and your gums healthy.
Patients with dental implants and implant-secured dentures can return to their normal daily habits and lifestyle without concerns about discomfort or a slipping appliance. There is a significant reduction in the risk of gum disease and other dental problems associated with traditional removable dentures and bridges.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process takes several weeks or months to complete. Several factors affect the timeline:
- Bone Health and Stability: You need enough healthy and stable bone in your jaw for a secure implant. If the bone is weak or insufficient, we may recommend bone grafting. This treatment adds healthy bone tissue to strengthen the area before placing the implant.
- Number of Implants Being Placed: If you need only one implant and have no other oral health concerns, we may coordinate with our oral surgical specialist for same-day placement. This approach also works for dentures using the All-on-“X” process. With traditional placement, the implant must heal before moving on to the next phase.
- Healing Ability: Everyone heals at a different pace. Factors like medical conditions, age, and lifestyle choices can impact how quickly your implant heals. This can impact how long it takes to complete treatment.
By considering these factors, we create a treatment plan that ensures the best outcome for your new smile. Dr. Gayed and Dr. Shaw work with local oral surgical specialists to place the implant to ensure a successful result.
Getting a dental implant is a step-by-step process that takes several months, but the results can last a lifetime. Here’s what you can expect during your treatment:
Placing the Implant
The first step of the procedure is placing the implant, which is a small titanium post, into your jawbone. An oral surgeon will numb your mouth to comfortably place one or more implants. Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with your bone in a process called osseointegration. This healing ensures the implants are strong enough to support a replacement tooth.
Attaching the Abutment
We will follow up with you, and you will complete the placement process in our Lincoln Park dental office. Once the tissues have healed, we will attach an abutment piece to secure the final restoration. This piece will hold your new tooth securely in place. We will take impressions for your final custom dental crown, bridge, or denture.
Final Restoration
The final step is placing the crown, bridge, or denture. Our local dental lab will make your restoration matches the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. We ensure your new teeth blend in perfectly with your smile.
How to Care for Implants
You can care for your new teeth just like natural teeth. Gently brush and floss your implant restoration and gums. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can also use interdental floss if needed to clean around the implants.
We also recommend that you continue to schedule routine visits in our office. At regular visits, we will provide cleanings and also exam your implants to ensure they’re healthy. The implant posts will stay in your mouth with the right care.
Schedule A Dental Implant Consultation
If you have missing teeth and want to explore your treatment options with dental implants, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gayed or Dr. Shaw in our Lincoln Park dentist office. We can also provide a second opinion for a treatment plan. Contact our downtown Chicago dental practice at (773) 549-2881 or request an appointment online.