Dental Implants in Wicker Park, Chicago

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. Once the implant is securely in place and the surrounding bone has healed and fused with the implant, a dental crown, bridge, or denture can be attached to the implant to restore the missing tooth.

Each dental implant consists of three parts:

• Implant Post: A titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to act as the new tooth root.
• Abutment: A small connector piece that attaches the implant post to the restoration.
• Restoration: The visible part of the implant, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture.

Unlike traditional tooth replacement options like dental bridges or dentures, implants integrate with the jawbone, offering unmatched stability and preventing bone loss. This makes dental implants the gold standard for tooth replacement, particularly when it comes to both aesthetics and functionality.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer numerous benefits over other tooth replacement options:

• Natural Appearance: Implants look and function just like your natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are made from titanium, a biocompatible material that integrates with the bone, making implants extremely durable.
• Bone Preservation: When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants help stimulate the bone and prevent bone loss, preserving the structure of your face and jaw.
• Improved Functionality: Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip or shift when eating or speaking, dental implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, providing superior stability.
• Convenience: Dental implants are easy to care for and maintain. You can brush and floss them just like your natural teeth, eliminating the need for special adhesives or cleaning solutions required for dentures.

To learn more about whether implants are right for you, visit our Contact Us page or schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanders.

The Dental Implant Process at Wicker Park Dental Studio

At Wicker Park Dental Studio, the dental implant process is carefully planned and customized to meet your specific needs. Here’s what you can expect during your dental implant treatment:

1. Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, Dr. Leslie Sanders will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health, including digital X-rays and 3D CT scanning, to assess the condition of your jawbone and determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. We’ll discuss your medical history, dental goals, and the implant options available to you.

2. Bone Grafting (If Necessary)

If you’ve experienced significant bone loss due to missing teeth or gum disease, you may require a bone graft before implant placement. Bone grafting helps regenerate lost bone, ensuring there is enough support for the implant. Dr. Sanders will discuss whether a bone graft is necessary during your consultation.

3. Implant Placement

Once your jaw is ready for the implant, the titanium post will be surgically placed into the jawbone. The implant placement is done under local anesthesia or sedation dentistry to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months is required to allow the bone to fuse with the implant in a process called osseointegration.

4. Abutment Placement

Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the next step is placing the abutment, a small connector piece that will support the final restoration. The abutment is attached to the implant post and serves as the foundation for your new tooth.

5. Restoration Placement

After the gum tissue has healed around the abutment, Dr. Sanders will place the final restoration, which can be a dental crown, bridge, or full or partial denture. Your new tooth will be custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in both color and shape, ensuring a beautiful, functional smile.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great solution for many patients, but certain factors can influence your eligibility for the procedure. Ideal candidates for dental implants should:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Have sufficient bone density to support the implant (or be willing to undergo a bone graft)
• Be in good general health, with healthy gums and no untreated periodontal disease
• Be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental cleanings and check-ups

If you’re unsure whether dental implants are the right choice for you, Dr. Sanders will evaluate your situation during your consultation and recommend the best treatment options to restore your smile.

Why Choose Wicker Park Dental Studio for Dental Implants?

At Wicker Park Dental Studio, we take pride in offering top-quality dental care that prioritizes your comfort and satisfaction. Here’s why patients in Wicker Park, Chicago choose us for their dental implant treatments:

• Experienced Team: Dr. Leslie Sanders has over 11 years of experience in restorative and implant dentistry. Her expertise ensures precise, effective treatment tailored to your individual needs.
• State-of-the-art technology: We use the latest technology, including 3D CT scans and digital imaging, to ensure the most accurate and successful implant placement.
• Comprehensive Care: From initial consultations to follow-up care, we provide a full range of services, including bone grafting, tooth extractions, and crowns, to ensure a seamless and successful implant experience.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We focus on your comfort and well-being at every stage of your treatment, offering sedation options for those who feel anxious about dental procedures.

If you’re ready to restore your smile with dental implants, visit our Contact Us page to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanders.

FAQs About Dental Implants

How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are key to ensuring the longevity of your implants.

Are dental implants painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during the implant procedure. Any post-operative discomfort can be managed with pain medication, and most patients recover quickly.

How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process, from initial consultation to final restoration, can take several months due to the healing period required for osseointegration.

What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95%, making them one of the most reliable tooth replacement options available.