What are dental implants?

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or a full upper and/or lower set of teeth. A dental implant is made out of titanium and provides the support for a permanent crown once it is placed and fused to the jawbone.

For patients who qualify, implants are a superior alternative to bridges because they are an effective long-term solution that does not require treating adjacent teeth unnecessarily. Because they fit, feel and function like natural teeth, and have an overall success rate of 95%, dental implants are the best option for tooth replacement.

Why Do Dental Implants Stand Out from the Rest?

Implants are better than other dental prosthetics for a number of reasons. Loss of teeth can ruin a person’s smile and hurt their self-esteem. With implants, you can easily restore your beautiful smile and regain the function of your missing teeth. These dental implants are fully functional, as well as durable.

Unlike bridges and dentures, implants don’t disturb surrounding teeth. Furthermore, you can eat anything you want, unlike dentures where you have to avoid hard and sticky foods. Dental implants increase comfort and improve oral hygiene.

Whether you get one or several dental implants, there is no damage done to your surrounding teeth, unlike older solutions. While the cost of implants can be higher than other solutions, they are an investment that often lasts a lifetime.

Dental implants typically have three parts:

1) The implant:

A screw that serves as a root for your new teeth. The implant heals for 3-4 months and is ready to be uncovered once the implant has securely adhered to your bone.

2) The abutment:

This connects the implant to the permanent crown or crowns.

3) The crown:

This is the part that looks like your natural tooth. It’s usually made of porcelain for durability and aesthetics.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are similar to regular dentures, the key difference being the manner in which they are held in place. Traditional dentures stay in place with suction and dental adhesives. Implant-supported dentures, as the name suggests, are held in place by dental implants. This provides greater stability and eliminates the concern of dentures slipping out of place. Dentures can be held in place by embedding four to six implants in strategic locations, restoring functionality to your bite.

Why You Should Consider Dental Implants

In the past, dentists tried different procedures to help save their patient’s teeth. Bridges, root canals, and various dentures were a common option. Today, science and technology have advanced, bringing new alternatives. At Chicago Smile Design, we offer a variety of dental procedures that can save your existing teeth or replace them with artificial alternatives that are just as good as the real thing.

Dental implants are a great solution for many patients. They are a quick solution that can save money long-term and function just like natural teeth, restoring aesthetics in the process.

Why Get Your Dental Implants with Dr. Tomaselli?

Dr. Tomaselli is a graduate of the Misch Implant Institute, which is a world-renowned organization for implant training. He has been placing and restoring implants for over 31 years and continues to manage all phases of the implant process. Patients benefit from his experience as well as the convenience of having to see only one dentist from start to finish. Dr. Tomaselli also offers oral conscious sedation for those patients who have anxiety about getting dental treatment.

At Chicago Smile Design, we serve the entire Chicago, IL, area, including Lincoln Park, Old Town, and Gold Coast.