McGonigle Dental Associates

What Are Dental Implants?

Implants are like roots or anchors surgically implanted into the patient’s jaw to where teeth are missing. These implants bond with your natural bone, creating a sturdy base to support one or more artificial teeth.

These artificial teeth are known as crowns. Our crowns are customized to match your existing teeth, seamlessly filling the gap left by a missing tooth, giving you the healthy, confident smile you deserve. Contact us today to speak with our Tinley Park dental implant specialists and learn more.

What You Can Expect Before Your Procedure

When you arrive for your first visit, one of our dental implant specialists will take x-rays of your teeth and create molds to help plan your procedure. The doctor will present you with various options to create a custom plan that suits your needs.

This is also a great time to go over your expectations about the procedure and ask any questions you may have about your new dental implants.

The Dental Implant Procedure

After you and your doctor have created your customized care plan, our office will find a time for your surgery that works with your schedule. The first part of the actual procedure involves anchoring the dental implant into your jaw. The dentist will make a small incision to reveal the bone, gently make a small space, and place the implant post. Your dentist will numb the area in advance in order to make the process as pain-free as possible.

It will take some time for this implant to heal, but as it heals, the implant will become incorporated into your jawbone. This creates a sturdy and long-lasting anchor for the crown. Next comes the placement of your artificial tooth. Once your dentist is able to confirm the implant has properly healed, a crown is fitted over it. This may take more than one visit. Adjustments may be needed to get the perfect natural-looking fit. Once you and your doctor are satisfied with the crown, it will be permanently affixed.

After Your Procedure

Since this is a more complicated procedure, patients can expect longer recovery times.

Your dentist will also help you create a diet plan for your recovery. Usually, this will entail eating mostly soft food for the first 7-30 days. Hot food and drink are discouraged and straws are to be avoided entirely until healing is complete. Likewise, drinking alcohol or smoking must be avoided for at least one week after your procedure.

The good news is that if taken care of, dental implants can last for years. In order to maintain your healthy and beautiful new smile, you’ll need to practice good oral hygiene and eat properly. If you do, the results will be stunning. Call McGonigle Dental Associates today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to a brand new smile.