A dental implant is a replacement tooth which looks feels and acts exactly like a normal tooth; the implant is placed in the jaw of the patient. Dental implants in downtown Chicago IL are used when the individual has lost one or more teeth due to injury or decay. The procedure requires a titanium implant to be put into the jaw bone; the implant serves as the root for the new crown which is placed on top of the implant.
Once the titanium implant has fused with the natural jaw bone it remains secure, it does not harm the bone. When the healing process has been completed, which may take a couple of months, a metal tube is placed on top of the implant; this is called the abutment and it acts as the anchor for the crown. The three components add up to an implant that gives all the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
There are certain drawbacks to dentures and many people would much prefer to have dental implants in downtown Chicago IL. Implants are also an ideal solution for those who may experience speech problems if they wear dentures. For patients who have a solid jaw bone, and have no specific health problems that will have a negative impact on the healing process, then dental implants are the ideal solution.
The patient is placed under anesthesia as there is considerable pain associated with the procedure. The dentist first exposes the jaw bone by cutting into the gum; once the bone is exposed a small pilot hole is drilled into it, creating a cavity which is designed to accept the implant.
This initial procedure is basically constructing a new root which the crown to eventually sit on. While the implant is fusing to the jaw bone and the site is healing, the dentist will stabilize the site. Between two and six months is the normal time for the bone to fuse to the titanium implant, at which time the gum is reopened so that the abutment can be affixed. Once again, the gum tissue is closed and sutured around the abutment.
The final phase is the actual fitting of the crown; the first phase can take place a couple of weeks after the abutments were first put in place. The dentist makes an impression of the site and then crowns are made from the impressions. The final stage of all dental implants in downtown Chicago IL is attaching the finished crown is attached to the abutment with special dental adhesive. The implant will last for many years and only needs the same daily care as the rest of the natural teeth.
If you work in the Windy City there is a dentist that offers dental implants in downtown Chicago IL. With over 25 years experience in placing implants, Dr. Yahav and the staff at the Chicago Smile Center welcome you to call for a consultation.