Dental Implants

Dental implants are a durable and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. At First Dental Center, we use advanced technology and materials to provide dental implants that not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but also enhance your overall oral health and functionality.

  • Icon depicting a price tag with a dollar sign in the center, representing cost or pricing information.

    Cost

    The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the number of implants needed and the complexity of the procedure. We provide a detailed breakdown during your consultation and discuss payment options, including financing and insurance coverage.

    Office Fees
  • Icon depicting an hourglass, representing the concept of time, duration, or waiting period.

    Procedure Duration

    The entire process, from implant placement to the attachment of the crown, typically takes several months, as it requires time for the implant to integrate with the bone.

    Schedule Online
  • Icon depicting a stylized tooth with three lightning bolts above it, representing tooth pain or dental sensitivity.

    Pain Level

    Most patients report that the discomfort is minimal, especially compared to the extraction of a tooth. Local anesthesia and/or sedation are used to maximize comfort during the procedure.

    Sedation Dentistry

Restore Your Smile with Permanent Dental Implants

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are then allowed to heal and integrate with the bone over a few months. Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector post — called an abutment — is attached to the post to securely hold the new tooth. The new tooth, or crown, is then attached to the abutment, providing the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

Benefits of Dental Implants:

– Durability: Implants are very durable and can last many years, often for a lifetime with proper care.

– Improved Oral Health: Unlike a dental bridge, implants do not require reducing other teeth, preserving more of your own teeth.

– Enhanced Comfort and Ease of Eating: Implants function like your own teeth, allowing for comfortable eating and speaking.

– Improved Self-Esteem: Dental implants can give back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.

01.

Process of Dental Implants

Initial Consultation: Includes a full examination, X-rays, and discussion of your treatment options and goals.

Implant Placement: The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. After placement, a period of healing (osseointegration) takes place, typically lasting a few months.

Abutment and Crown Placement: Once healing is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant. After the gum tissue has healed around the abutment, impressions are made for the crown, which will be the visible part of the implant.

Final Adjustments and Fitting: The crown is attached to the abutment and adjusted for a perfect fit and comfortable bite.

02.

Next Steps After Getting Dental Implants

Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up visits to ensure the implant is functioning well and the surrounding tissue remains healthy.

Maintenance: Instructions on how to care for your new implant, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.

FAQ

  • What is the procedure for dental implants?

    The first step of dental implants is having the dentist consult and examine the site in the mouth where the dental implant is being considered. The dentist will need to consider if any of the neighboring teeth need to be extracted and which type of bone graft needs to be conducted.

    Once the patient has been given a few months to heal, the dental implant is placed into the bone and a healing cap is placed over the implant so the healing phase can begin. It’s important to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up to ensure healing.

  • What types of dental implants exist?

    There are two types of dental implants that are commonly used by dentists: endosteal implants and all-on-4 implants.

    • Endosteal implants are the most widely used option. They consist of a titanium metal rod that is placed into the jawbone and a supporting post that is specifically designed to hold either a dental crown or a dental bridge in place.
    • All-on-4 implants are a new and innovative dental implant system that allows a complete top or bottom denture to be supported on just four implants. Each implant is strategically placed to ensure that the replacement teeth are stable and secure. The advantage of using four implants is that it promotes quicker patient recovery and minimizes the risk of complications resulting from possible implant failure.
  • What are the benefits of dental implants?

    Tooth loss can make it difficult to chew and speak clearly. If left untreated, it can result in problems such as tooth shifts, jawbone deterioration, and facial structure and bite imbalances, which usually develop over time due to the absence of a root system to maintain bone health and alignment. Dental implants are the most effective method to treat tooth loss, as they serve as an artificial root system to support a prosthetic tooth. They can not only help overcome short-term challenges but also prevent long-term problems associated with tooth loss.

  • Can a bite affect dental implant placement?

    If you have a misaligned bite, the restorations placed on the dental implants will be at greater risk for fracture or failure. Proper tooth alignment prior to dental implant placement leads to a more esthetic result. Bite and tooth alignment problems should be addressed before dental implant placement.

  • Are there any post-treatment limitations once I have a dental implant placed?

    You should be careful not to disturb the surgical site immediately after dental implant placement. This means no chewing on the side of the implant and careful cleaning methods for several weeks to a month. The dental implant takes several months to fuse to the jaw fully, so fewer disturbances to the area mean a higher success rate. If you have a temporary denture to replace your missing dentition, it is important that the denture does not rub on the surgical site.

RELATED BLOG POSTS

dental implants on a blue background

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are used to support the replacement of a single tooth or multiple teeth depending on the individual’s requirements and condition. Reading about the pros and cons of the process may help you decide if dental implants are right for you.

Where are we located?

FDC-front-footer

First Dental Center

4108 N Sheridan Rd
Chicago, IL 60613

Directions

Parking is available behind the building, and we're close to the bus stop.

Hours

Monday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm