Dental Implants Libertyville, IL

According to Boston Magazine, by the age of 50 years old, the majority of people have lost at least 12 of their natural teeth. Many adults who lose their teeth turn to things like partial dentures to help them retain a nice-looking smile, but dental implants are an even better option. Even though dental implants started out as something thought of as a treatment for the rich and famous, this treatment is more accessible now than ever.

If your smile is missing a few teeth or if you have lost all of your natural teeth and want something other than dentures, we can help. At the dental office of Nicholas Polito, DDS, we offer a range of dental implant options and help patients regain their smile on a daily basis.

Dental Implants at a Glance

Annually, there are five million dental implants placed, which makes dental implants a highly common procedure for patients who wish to replace teeth that are missing from their smile. During these procedures, an implant is placed either into the gum or into the bone that will hold a prosthetic tooth that looks and performs much like the real thing. Dental implants are beneficial to patients because:

• The implant offers almost as much chewing power as a regular tooth
• The implants may help prevent problems with bone loss after extractions
• The implant can prevent remaining teeth from shifting and moving out of place

Patients choose implants for different reasons. Many patients choose an implant when they have only lost one or a few teeth, but just as many choose implants to support bridges or to replace all of their missing teeth. While dental implants in Libertyville are perhaps most common among adults, they can also be a logical solution for adolescents who have lost a permanent tooth as well.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

There are basically two different types of dental implants available: endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. The primary difference between endosteal and subperiosteal implants is endosteal versions are implanted into the jawbones whereas subperiosteal implants are not.

Endosteal implant procedures involve placing a titanium implant into the bone, along with a bone-like material. The soft tissue then gets closed around the new implant. Subperiosteal dental implants involve placing a metal framework into the soft tissue that rests on the jawbone. A small screw protrudes through the gums on which a prosthetic tooth is placed.

The Best Candidates for Dental Implants in Libertyville, IL

In general terms, the more healthy a patient is, the more likely it will be that they are a good candidate for dental implant surgery. A thorough health assessment will be done during your initial consultation. Certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes, can sometimes make it harder for the implants to heal in place properly. However, every individual case is different. For example, a patient who has well-managed diabetes and low risk of problems with healing may still be a good candidate for dental implants in Libertyville, IL. Those who have gum disease may also have to work with the dentist to treat the condition before being a good candidate for implant procedures.

Dental Implants: Common Patient FAQs

How do you take care of dental implants?

Once placed and healed, you take care of your new implants the same way you do regular teeth. Good oral hygiene is a must to prevent any long-term issues with your new teeth.

How long will it take your mouth to heal after implants?

The healing process may take a little while after you’ve gotten implants, and every patient can vary. The more closely you follow the surgeon’s instructions, the quicker you will heal.

Is it true smokers can’t get implants?

Smoking is naturally hard on your natural teeth, and it can also be hard on your mouth if you have implants. The inhaled smoke repeatedly raises the temperature inside of your mouth, which can make you more prone to gum disease and prevent proper healing after you get implants.

Let Us Help You with Dental Implants in Libertyville, IL

Studies show that roughly a third of Americans are completely unhappy with their smile, but you don’t have to be one of these people. Missing teeth can oftentimes be safely replaced to give you a smile you are proud to dazzle to the world when you’re happy. Reach out to us at the dental office of Nicholas Polito, DDS to schedule an appointment to discuss your dental implant options and if you would be a good candidate.