The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry offers many options to replace missing or damaged teeth with the most natural and durable option being dental implant supported dental restorations. Dr. Abraham Stein is an expert in the field of implant dentistry and has undergone many hours of training. He currently offers full-service dental implants in Skokie to patients from Evanston, IL.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is small post that is typically made of titanium. There are many different types of dental implants available. Most implant restorations are made of up of 3 main parts; the implant post(s), the abutment(s) and the dental restoration.
Dental Implant Post
This titanium post will be surgically placed in the jaw bone by Dr. Abraham Stein, an experienced implant dentist serving patients from Evanston, IL. It will replace the missing tooth root to prevent bone loss. The implant will fuse with the surrounding bone making it durable enough to support a dental restoration. Implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The number and location of missing teeth will determine how many dental implants will be needed.
Abutment
The abutment is a small metal piece that is connected on to the implant post after it has fully fused with the jaw bone. An implant can take three to six months to properly heal and fuse. The next step is a minor surgery where your dentist will uncover the implant and attach the abutment. A healing abutment may be placed immediately on the implant and this second minor surgery is not necessary. Instead, the healing abutment is replaced with the permanent one.
Dental Restoration
The dental restoration is the last part to be attached and will display the crown portion of the whole implant restoration. Thanks to advances in dental technology, they resemble and function like natural teeth. For one missing tooth, Dr. Stein will attach a dental crown to a single dental implant. For multiple missing teeth, he will restore them with a dental bridge or partial denture. A full set of dentures will be used if an entire row of teeth are missing.
What to Expect From the Process
The first step in the implant process is to meet with Dr. Stein to determine if you qualify for dental implants. Patients need to have enough bone tissue density, have healthy teeth and gums, and be in good overall health. Dr. Stein will prepare a treatment plan using advanced dental technology to properly plan every step of the implant process.
Next, Dr. Stein will surgically implant the necessary amount of titanium posts. Most people find the dental implant procedure to be less painful than they expected. It will take about an hour to place a single dental implant. It will take about three to six months for all soft tissues to heal and the post to integrate into the bone. Depending on the type of implant you are receiving, a second appointment may be necessary to have the abutment attached.
At your last appointment, Dr. Stein will attach your new, custom made dental restoration. The dental crown, dental bridge or denture will be adjusted for a comfortable fit and secured.
Dental implants can be cared for just like natural teeth with daily brushing, flossing and routine dental visits to ensure oral health.