1933 Franciscan Way, West Chicago, IL 60185
Missing teeth change more than the way you look — they alter how you chew, speak, and how your jawbone maintains its shape. Dental implants are a contemporary solution designed to replace one or many missing teeth with a focus on durability, comfort, and a natural appearance. Today’s implant protocols combine precise imaging, biocompatible materials, and refined surgical techniques to deliver predictable results for a wide range of patients.
Unlike removable replacements, implants integrate with the jaw to recreate the relationship between tooth root and crown. This integration restores chewing efficiency and helps preserve surrounding bone and facial form. Because every smile is unique, a thoughtful treatment plan is developed for each patient that considers oral health, long-term function, and aesthetic goals.
At West Chicago Smiles we prioritize thorough evaluation and clear communication so patients understand their options. Whether you are contemplating a single implant or a full-arch restoration, modern implant dentistry gives clinicians flexible tools to rebuild reliable, long-lasting smiles.
A dental implant is typically a small, tapered post made from titanium or a titanium alloy. Once placed into the jawbone, the implant acts as an artificial root. Over time, the bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration, forming a stable foundation for a prosthetic tooth or set of teeth. This root-like support is what sets implants apart from other tooth-replacement options.
When the implant has become secure, a restorative component — such as an abutment and a crown, bridge, or denture — is attached. These restorations are designed to match the color, shape, and function of natural teeth so the finished result looks and feels integrated with the surrounding dentition.
Because implants restore both the root and the visible tooth, they help maintain bite forces evenly and reduce the risk of neighboring teeth shifting into the empty space. For many patients, this translates into improved comfort when eating, clearer speech, and a more confident smile.
Implants are widely recognized for restoring the form and function of natural teeth. They provide a secure attachment for restorations, eliminating common issues associated with removable dentures like shifting, clicking, and reduced chewing efficiency. The stability implants provide means patients can enjoy a varied diet without the restrictions often imposed by traditional prosthetics.
Another key advantage is preservation of the jawbone. When a natural tooth is lost, the bone that supported it can begin to resorb over time. An implant transmits functional forces into the bone during chewing, helping preserve bone volume and the natural contours of the face. This long-term structural support can make a meaningful difference in oral health and facial aesthetics.
Implant restorations also simplify oral hygiene compared with some alternative solutions. Individual implant crowns can be cleaned with regular brushing and flossing, while implant-supported bridges and dentures are designed to allow access for daily cleaning and professional maintenance.
Common clinical advantages include:
Implant dentistry is not one-size-fits-all. Treatment is selected based on the number of missing teeth, the condition of your jawbone, overall oral health, and personal goals. For a single missing tooth, an implant restored with a crown replaces only the absent tooth without touching neighboring teeth. This preserves natural tooth structure while restoring appearance and function.
During a consultation, clinicians evaluate imaging, gum health, bite relationships, and aesthetic goals to recommend the most appropriate plan. Treatment sequencing — including whether temporary or permanent restorations are used during healing — is customized to each patient’s needs.
A successful implant outcome begins with careful planning. Your clinician will review medical and dental history, take detailed images such as CBCT scans when needed, and assess gum and bone health. These steps identify potential risk factors and determine whether preparatory procedures — like bone grafting or periodontal therapy — are necessary to build a stable foundation.
Placing an implant is typically performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The implant is positioned in the jaw with attention to function and esthetics. After placement, a healing period allows osseointegration to occur. Many patients experience manageable discomfort and return to normal activities within days; follow-up visits monitor healing and guide the transition to final restorations.
Loss of bone volume can follow tooth extraction or long-term tooth loss. In cases where the jaw lacks adequate height or width, bone grafting can rebuild the site to support an implant predictably. Grafting materials and techniques vary, but the goal is the same: provide a stable environment where an implant can integrate successfully and support a restoration for the long term.
Implants are designed to last many years with proper care. Routine dental cleanings, consistent oral hygiene, and regular exams are essential to preserve the surrounding tissues and the integrity of restorations. Your dental team will recommend a maintenance schedule and provide instructions tailored to your prosthesis so you can protect your investment in oral health.
Replacing missing teeth with implants is a well-established and flexible approach to rebuilding comfort, function, and appearance. A clear diagnostic process and individualized treatment plan set the stage for predictable outcomes, whether the goal is a single crown, a multi-tooth bridge, or a full-arch restoration.
If you’re exploring implant options and want straightforward answers about candidacy, timing, and what to expect, reach out to schedule a consultation. Our team will review your situation, explain recommended next steps, and help you make an informed decision about care.
Contact West Chicago Smiles for more information about implant dentistry and to learn how modern implant techniques can restore your smile. We’re available to answer questions and guide you through each phase of treatment.
If you've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, gum disease, or any other reason, we recommend dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.
Dental implants are placed into the jawbone and mirror the same function as the root of a tooth. The procedure for dental implants is usually performed while a patient is sedated. Patients who undergo IV sedation must have an empty stomach and transportation home following the procedure. Most sedation patients will have little to no memory of the procedure occurring.
Generally, dental implants are made out of a biocompatible metal such as titanium. Biocompatible metals are also used for other common bone implants (such as shoulder, hip, and knee replacements). The visible portion of the implant is usually made out of porcelain and is custom-made to match your existing teeth.
Dental implants are designed to fuse to the bone, which makes them become permanent fixtures. Typically speaking, the success rate is nearly 100%. There are few cases in which the implant will not fuse as intended and must be removed. If this happens to occur, the procedure can be attempted again a few months later.
Dental implants are not usually covered by dental insurance, but may be covered under a patient's medical insurance. Our office and your insurance company can discuss coverage options with you based on your individual case and treatment plan.
It's easy... just take care of an implant as if it's a natural tooth! This involves regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. If you have any concerns about your implant, contact us immediately.
