Losing a tooth, or teeth, can be devastating for some people. The good thing is that with modern dentistry there are several solutions available. Some of the options for replacing missing teeth include a bridge, full or partial dentures, and dental implants. A discussion with the Buffalo Grove, IL dental team will reveal if you are a good candidate for implants. More individuals are choosing the procedure over traditional dentures because they are a more natural replacement. Rather than being removable like dentures, implants are surgically attached to the jawbone. An ideal candidate will be in good health, have a strong jawbone to support implants and have healthy gums.

Will they look natural?

Patients often choose dental implants because they are more natural-looking. The implant itself looks kind of like a screw, but after the crown is placed, it will not be visible. It is surgically attached to the jawbone so it can provide a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. The metal post is made of titanium in most cases but can also be an alloy. These substances are less likely to cause an adverse reaction as it will come in contact with the gums. Once the procedure has been completed and healed, they will look like your natural teeth.

What is the procedure like?

Once it is determined you are a good candidate for dental implants, Dr. Sara Chung, Dr. William McCune, or Dr. John Micaletti will discuss the procedure with you. This will allow you to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. It is usually done in the dental office and you will be given local anesthesia. It will require more than one visit to Creekside Dental. It’s typically done in three phases.

•       Implants are Placed. The first part of the process involves surgically placing the implant in the jawbone and covering it with the tissue. It will grow into the jawbone. It can take some time for it to heal completely. For most people, it will completely heal in three to six months.
•       Posts are Attached. After the implant has integrated into the jawbone and healed, the post will be attached. The post will eventually serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. In some cases,  Buffalo Grove, IL dentist can do the first two steps at the same time.
•       Crowns are Attached. After the areas around the implant and the post has healed, the dentist will attach a custom-made crown to the post.

Are Dental Implants a Good Option?

For many people, implants offer a variety of benefits that make them more desirable than other options. Some of the primary reasons patients opt for dental implants include:

•       More Natural Option. After the implant surgery, the implants will feel a lot like your natural teeth so it will feel more natural when you eat and talk. They are the next best thing to natural teeth.
•       Long-term rather than a short-term option. Dental implants have the best track record when it comes to longevity. Other solutions including bridges only last up to 10 years. But with proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
•       Better for the face and jaw. When tooth loss occurs, it can cause the deterioration of facial bones and jawbones, which can lose strength and shape over time. Even wearing removable dentures can lead to accelerated deterioration. Implants restore the normal function of the bones in the jaw and face and prevent bone loss.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t consider dental implants?

There are some instances when your Creekside dental team will recommend other alternatives. Pregnant women should wait until after having the baby to have the procedure. Those who suffer from immunosuppression or a chronic illness have an increased risk of developing an infection, so the procedure can be too risky for them health-wise. Since children’s jawbones are still developing, they are not good candidates. Make sure to mention to the dentist if you grind your teeth. Sometimes this can put too much pressure on implants.

Contact Creekside Dental

Do you have more questions or concerns about dental implants? Contact our Buffalo Grove, IL dental team and talk to one of our dentists. We can help you decide if they are right for you.