For those that have lost one or more natural teeth, dental implants can return complete functionality and appearance. Dental implants in Downers Grove are considered to be a dental prosthesis that replaces a person’s original teeth and prevents any degradation of the jaw bone. Regardless of whether the patient has a single implant or multiple implants the procedure is identical. To a large extent the success of the procedure is in the hands of the patient, a great deal of self care is required during the period of time the implant is merging with the jaw bone.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are nothing more than a synthetic tooth that appears the same, and has identical characteristics to the original. Once the implant procedure is completed, and this may take several months, it is virtually impossible to distinguish any differences between it and the real tooth it replaced. Dental implants in Downers Grove are not dentures or a bridge; they are fixed permanently in the jaw and are not designed to come out. The dentist undertakes a number of steps to ensure success.
The procedures explained:
If a tooth is lost either to decay or trauma the dentist will first determine that the site where the tooth came from is in good condition and capable of handling an implant. What is most important is the amount of jaw bone available for setting the titanium implant. If the tooth that is being replaced was lost or extracted recently this is rarely a problem, if the implant is to replace a tooth that has been missing for some time it may be necessary to undertake a bone graft which will add additional time to the procedure.
Once there is adequate bone the dentist will begin the procedure. The first step is to locate the position of the implant and drill a hole in the jawbone to accept it. A titanium screw is set in the hole and tightened, the implanted screw will, over a period of months, become one with the bone.
Once the implant and bone are fused the dentist will fit a temporary crown on top of the screw which is visible through the gum, this will stay for a couple of months to enhance healing. Once the dentist is satisfied that the dental implants in Downers Grove are perfect the permanent porcelain crown is affixed. Once completed the tooth or teeth are equally as good as the natural teeth they replaced.
Dental implants in Downers Grove are ideal in the event a tooth or teeth are lost due to excessive decay or an accident. You are invited to make an appointment with the dentists at Elite Dental Care.
