Dental Implants
Chicago Area
If you are missing one or more teeth, we may recommend dental implants as the ideal solution. Implants have become the go-to treatment option across the entire dental industry. At Cameo Dental Specialists, we offer some implant-supported restorations, from single crowns to the All-on-4 treatment concept. Implants can help you get the function and aesthetics of your smile back on track.
The Implant Process
The implant process begins with a consultation appointment. During your appointment an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will perform an extensive examination of your jaw and oral cavity. This may include x-rays, photographs, and CBCT scans. To qualify for implant treatment, you must have a sufficient amount of bone in the jaw.
If your bone is too thin or too soft, implant failure may occur. Treatments like All-on-4 utilize existing bone structure and eliminate the need for bone grafting procedures. As long as you are in relatively good oral and overall health, you should qualify.
Once we have determined you are a suitable candidate for implant treatment, we can move forward with the procedure.
The implant procedure is typically broken down into two minor surgeries. During the first surgery, we will make a small incision into the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. Next, we will place the implant screw, which is made from titanium.
Titanium has the unique ability to fuse with living bone through the process of osseointegration. Once the implant is in place, we will suture the incision. The number of implants we place depends on your restoration. A fixed bridge may require an implant for each missing tooth, while full-arch restorations use as little as four.
In the months following your surgery you will undergo a brief, yet crucial healing period. It is during this time that your bone and the implant fuse together.
Osseointegration is largely responsible for the many benefits of dental implants. Thanks to this miraculous process, your implant-supported restoration will look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth! Once osseointegration is complete, usually about six months after your first surgery, we can schedule the second part of your procedure.
During this appointment, we will reopen the incision to expose the implant head. Next, we will attach an abutment or support structure. The abutment links the implant screw to your restoration.
After the abutment is in place, we will make an impression of the area. This impression will be used to fabricate your final restoration. The fabrication process can take several weeks to complete.
In the meantime, we may install a temporary prosthesis to protect the implant and restore your ability to chew. Once your final restoration is ready, we will permanently secure it to the implant.
Caring For An Implant-Supported Restoration
Implant-supported restorations can be cared for just like your natural teeth, with daily brushing and flossing. Implants also allow you to enjoy an unrestricted diet.
Other, more traditional restorations, like dentures and bridges, may falter under the immense pressures of your bite—not implants. Your implant will last for many decades without the need for replacement. You may find that your implant lasts a lifetime!
Read More About Dental Implants
| • | What Are Dental Implants?
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| • | Implants vs. Dentures |
| • | The Dental Implant Process
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| • | All-on-4® Treatment Concept
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| • | How to Maintain Implants
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| • | Single Tooth Replacement with Dental Implant
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| • | Multiple Teeth Replacement with Dental Implant |
