At North Dental Professionals, Dr. Paul Chaiken and his team are committed to providing high-quality dental care to the residents of Chicago and Skokie, IL. One of our key services is dental implants. For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are a permanent solution. With dental implants, we can help restore your smile for a lifetime.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone beneath your gums. They act as sturdy bases for mounting replacement teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants do not slip or shift in your mouth. This stability helps improve your speech and appearance.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer several advantages. They look and feel like natural teeth. They also improve oral health because they do not require altering adjacent teeth, as dental bridges do. Furthermore, implants can help preserve the jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth.
The Procedure for Dental Implants
The journey begins with an initial consultation. Dr. Paul Chaiken will assess your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your medical history. This evaluation helps determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Implant Surgery
The first step in the surgical procedure involves placing the implant post into the jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. After the post is implanted, a healing period of several months is necessary for the bone to fuse with the post.
Healing Process
During the healing process, known as osseointegration, the jawbone grows around the implant, securing it firmly in place. This process can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on individual health conditions.
Placement of the Crown
Once the implant has fused with the bone, an abutment is placed on the implant post. Dr. Chaiken then attaches a custom-made crown to the abutment. This crown is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, completing the restoration.
Aftercare with Dental Implants
Taking care of dental implants is crucial for their longevity. Brush and floss daily, just as you would with natural teeth. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging your implants.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular visits to North Dental Professionals are essential. Dr. Chaiken will monitor your implants and oral health during these check-ups. Professional cleaning will also help maintain the health of your gums and surrounding tissues.
Potential Complications and How to Address Them
While dental implants have a high success rate, complications can occur. These may include infection, implant failure, or nerve damage. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms, contact our office immediately for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Dental Implants vs. Other Options
Dental implants offer several advantages over dentures. They are permanently fixed and do not need to be removed for cleaning. Implants also prevent bone loss, which is a common issue with dentures. In terms of comfort and functionality, implants closely resemble natural teeth.
Unlike dental bridges, which rely on surrounding teeth for support, implants are anchored into the jawbone. This independent structure helps preserve the integrity of adjacent teeth. Furthermore, dental implants have a longer lifespan than bridges, which typically need replacement every 5-10 years.
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants can vary based on several factors, including the number of implants needed and the complexity of the procedure. Many dental insurance plans cover only a portion of the cost. Our team at North Dental Professionals will help you navigate your insurance benefits and explore financing options to make the treatment more affordable.
If you are considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Chaiken and our North Dental Professionals team. We are here to guide you on your journey to better oral health.