A dental implant is a tooth that looks, feels, and responds exactly like a normal tooth and is placed in the jaw of the patient. Dental implants in Highland Park are used when an individual has lost a tooth due to damage or decay. The procedure requires an implant to be put into the jaw bone; the implant serves as the root for the new tooth, which is placed on top of the implant.
Once the implant has fused with the natural bone of the jaw, it remains secure and does no harm to the bone. When the healing process has been completed, a metal tube is placed on top of the implant; this is called the abutment and is the anchor for the crown, which is finally fitted. 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 implant services in Highland Park. Implants are also an ideal solution for those who may experience speech problems if they have an artificial appliance in their oral cavity. For patients who have a fully matured and solid jaw bone and have no specific health problems that will have a negative impact on the healing process, dental implants are an acceptable solution.
The patient is placed under anesthesia as there is considerable pain associated with the procedure. The dentist first cuts into the gum to expose the jaw bone. Once the bone is exposed, the dentist drills into it, creating a cavity that is designed to accept the implant.This initial procedure is basically building a new root for the crown to eventually sit on. While the implant is fusing to the jaw bone and the site is healing, the dentist will fit a dental appliance to stabilize the site. Between two and six months is the normal time for the bone to fuse with the implant, at which time the gum can be 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 finished crown is attached to the abutment, and the procedure is over.
If you feel that dental implants in Highland Park may be the right procedure for you to follow, then you are invited to call or visit Chicago Beautiful Smiles for a consultation.
Contact Chicago Beautiful Smiles for dental implant procedure in Highland Park. For more information, visit ChicagoBeautifulSmiles.com.