Dental Implants
Missing a Tooth?
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial titanium tooth roots that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist, periodontist or oral surgeon. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile! Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable, and will last many years. However, on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Reasons for dental implants:
• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth
• Resolve bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space
• Restore proper chewing and speech
• Enhance facial tissues and prevent cheeks from “sinking in”
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable
• Rebuild a confident, healthy smile
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months. Digital X-rays are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself with the bone for about three to six months.
After healing, the custom crown, bridge or dentures are made and fit to both the implant and any surrounding teeth. For dentures that are completely supported by implants (also known as an “all-on-4”) several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. Because the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, they provide excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant. We invite you to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors to learn more about dental implants at Always Great Smiles in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.
Short & Sweet
A dental implant placement is like growing a new tooth in your mouth. Only this root is made of titanium and can be used to support an individual crown, a bridge, or even a partial or denture. They can help improve quality of life by restoring your ability to chew and speak properly. They can help rebuild a confident healthy smile.