Dental Implants in Downers Grove, IL

Tooth Implant

Dental implants are the only permanent way to replace one or more missing teeth. These are replacement teeth that are functional, comfortable, and natural looking. Dental implants are a denture alternative that eliminates the need for bridges or other removable or temporary dental prosthetics. Implants transform your life by restoring your ability to enjoy food, speak clearly, and enjoy life without worrying about gaps in your teeth or uncomfortable dentures.

There are three parts to an implant replacement for a missing tooth. The implant is the titanium screw placed in your jawbone to replace the missing tooth’s root. An abutment is a small metal post that fits into the center of the implant, protrudes through the gum, and attaches to the crown or dental prosthetic, the visible portion of your replacement tooth.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Anyone with one or more teeth missing or that must be extracted should consider dental implants. As long as your jaw has stopped growing (usually around age 20) and you are in good health, you are a candidate for implants. If you have gum disease, it must be treated first and kept under control to prevent rejection of the implants. Patients with cancer, hemophilia, uncontrolled diabetes, or certain immunological illnesses may not be good candidates for implant surgery.

We ask all patients considering dental implants to schedule an initial appointment for a dental examination, 3D imaging of the teeth and surrounding structures, a review of your medical history, and a discussion of your goals with dental implant surgery.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

There are multiple benefits to getting dental implants when teeth are missing, not the least of which is boosting your confidence by restoring your smile to its former beauty. Other benefits include:

Preventing Bone Loss

When teeth are missing, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Within a year, you can lose as much as 25% of bone density where the root of a tooth is missing. This can lead to the loss or shifting of adjacent teeth.

Restored Eating Ability

With implants, you can eat anything you like without worrying about something getting caught under a denture. Your bite force is nearly as strong as your natural teeth, unlike dentures that rest on your gums and are not integrated with your jawbone.

Preserves Facial Contours

Individuals with multiple missing teeth often have a prematurely aged appearance because the lower half of the face looks sunken. This is the result of the deterioration of the jawbone and the missing teeth.

Improved Speech

Speech can be affected when multiple teeth are missing. Dentures may slip or click, interfering with the pronunciation of certain words. Implants make it easy to be understood.

No Cavities

The visible portion of a tooth implant is usually made of porcelain, gold, or ceramic. The implant in the jawbone is titanium. None of these materials develop cavities, so you do not have to worry about losing your replacement teeth to tooth decay.

No Embarrassing Slippage

In the past, dentures have been the most popular way to replace missing teeth. Still, their limitations include their tendency to slip or shift at inopportune moments. With dental implants, you never have to worry about your dentures falling out or getting loose.

Easy Care

Dental implants are cared for like natural teeth. You brush twice, floss once daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups. There is no need for special care, and you do not have to remove them at night. You can also toss out messy dental adhesives!

Dental Implant Process

The surgical placement of the titanium implants is the first step. We use the latest technologies, including digital 3D scanners and digital impressions, to ensure the exact placement of the implant in the jawbone to replace the missing tooth root. The gums are then sutured over the area, allowing it to heal for several months. During this time, the titanium implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a stable support for the crown or prosthetic that will replace the visible portion of the missing tooth.

When the implant is fully fused with the surrounding bone, the tops of the implants are uncovered. A metal collar is attached to gently shape the gums into the optimal shape to support the crown. This usually takes about two weeks. While the healing collar is in place, the replacement teeth are created based on the 3D images and digital impressions of your mouth.

When the gums are ready, the collar is removed, and abutments (small metal posts placed in the hollow core of the implant) are used to attach the crowns or a permanent prosthetic to the implant or implants.

Integral Family Dental offers a unique advantage for anyone getting dental implants. Dr. Jaimes can do the entire procedure, including placing the implants, any needed bone grafts, and attachment of the dental restorations without seeing a separate dentist and oral surgeon. 

Types of Dental Implants

• Single Tooth Implant – If only one tooth is missing and the adjacent teeth are healthy, an implant preserves the jawbone, restores bite force, and protects your remaining teeth from shifting.
• Multiple Implants – If you have several teeth missing, two implants may be placed to support three or four crowns or a permanent bridge. You may also have individual implants for each missing tooth depending on their location and the condition of your jawbone.
• Full Arch Implants – If you are missing all of your teeth in the upper or lower jaw, we can create a permanent denture and attach it to several implants (usually between four and six). This prevents bone loss and improves bite force with less surgery.

The Cost of Dental Implants

If you need to replace missing teeth, consider every option. While other restorations are available, no others are permanent, and none preserve the jawbone like dental implants. The cost of implants depends on factors such as how many teeth are missing, whether you need bone grafts, the type of crown or arch, and other factors. Integral Family Dental will give you an accurate cost breakdown at your initial consultation and work with you to find a payment option that fits your budget.

If you are looking for a denture alternative or need to replace missing teeth, schedule your dental implant consultation by calling us at Integral Family Dental Phone Number (630) 971-0751.