Dental Implants

Dental implants in Skokie, IL, are titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, ensuring optimal stability, functionality, and aesthetics. Unlike traditional dentures and bridges that sit on the gums or rely on adjacent teeth for support, dental implants are fused with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, mimicking the natural tooth structure and providing unparalleled stability. 

The Dental Implant Process in Skokie, IL

The dental implant process in Skokie, IL typically involves several stages and may vary depending on the patient's individual needs and treatment plan:

Initial Consultation

The process begins with a comprehensive dental examination and consultation with our Skokie, IL dentist. During this consultation, the dentist assesses the patient's oral health, reviews medical history, and discusses treatment goals and expectations.

Treatment Planning

Based on the examination and diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, the dentist develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific needs. This plan outlines the number of implants needed, the placement location, and any additional procedures required, such as bone grafting or sinus augmentation.

Implant Placement

The next step involves the surgical placement of the dental implants into the jawbone. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Our best dentist in Skokie, IL makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone, drills a precise hole for each implant, and then securely places the implants into the jawbone. In some cases, temporary prosthetic teeth may be attached to the implants immediately after placement.

Osseointegration

Following implant placement, the healing process begins. Over the next few months, the surrounding jawbone fuses with the implants through a natural process called osseointegration. This integration provides a strong and stable foundation for the final restoration. 

Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to each implant. The abutments serve as anchors for the final prosthetic teeth and are customized to fit the shape and contour of the patient's gums.

Restoration

The final step involves the fabrication and placement of the prosthetic teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, onto the abutments. These restorations are carefully designed to match the size, shape, and color of the patient's natural teeth, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Types of Dental Implants in Skokie, IL

Several types of dental implants are available to accommodate different patient needs and treatment scenarios.

• Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant and are typically used for patients with sufficient bone volume in the jaw. These implants are inserted directly into the jawbone during surgery and provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth.

• Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are designed for patients who have insufficient bone volume in the jaw to support traditional implants. Instead of being placed into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants rest on top of the bone and are held in place by a metal framework placed beneath the gum tissue.

• All-on-4® Implants

All-on-4® implants are a revolutionary solution for patients missing an entire arch of teeth. This technique involves the placement of just four dental implants per arch, strategically positioned to maximize bone support and minimize the need for bone grafting. All-on-4® implants provide a stable foundation for a fixed full-arch restoration, such as a denture or bridge, restoring function and aesthetics with minimal surgery and downtime. 

Benefits of Dental Implants in Skokie, IL

Dental implants offer numerous benefits for patients seeking a permanent solution for missing teeth, including:

• Improved Aesthetics

Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, restoring confidence and self-esteem by providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile.

• Enhanced Functionality

Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip or move while eating or speaking, dental implants provide a stable and secure foundation for replacement teeth, allowing for comfortable chewing and speaking without restrictions.

• Preservation of Bone Health

Tooth loss can lead to bone resorption and deterioration in the jawbone, resulting in facial collapse and an aged appearance. Dental implants stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss by mimicking the natural tooth roots, preserving facial structure, and supporting overall oral health.

• Longevity and Durability

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective and sustainable investment in oral health and quality of life.

• Convenience and Comfort

Dental implants eliminate the need for messy adhesives, special cleaning solutions, and removable appliances associated with traditional dentures, offering a hassle-free and comfortable alternative for tooth replacement. Call us to learn more.

Considerations and Maintenance in Skokie, IL

While dental implants can provide numerous benefits, there are some considerations and maintenance requirements to keep in mind: 

• Oral Health

Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, are essential for maintaining the longevity of dental implants and preventing complications such as gum disease and peri-implantitis.

• Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and poor dietary choices, can negatively impact the success and longevity of dental implants. Patients considering implants are encouraged to adopt healthy habits and lifestyle choices to support optimal oral health and healing.

• Bone Health

Adequate bone volume and density are essential for the successful placement and long-term stability of dental implants. Patients with insufficient bone may require bone grafting or augmentation procedures to improve bone quality and quantity before implant placement.

• Patient Candidacy

Not all patients are suitable candidates for dental implants. Factors such as overall health, oral health, bone quality, and lifestyle habits may influence candidacy for implant treatment. A thorough evaluation by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon is necessary to determine eligibility and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a transformative solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring smiles and confidence. Whether replacing a single tooth or an entire arch, implants provide numerous benefits, including improved aesthetics, enhanced functionality, and long-term durability. By understanding the process, types, benefits, and considerations of dental implants, patients can make informed decisions about their oral health and achieve a beautiful and functional smile that lasts a lifetime.