What to Expect Before, During, and After Dental Implant Surgery?

The procedure for getting dental implants is an extensive one, and can take up to a year or more. Before the surgery, you will have an initial consultation where a comprehensive exam, x-rays, and imaging will be done. During the surgery, the implant is placed by cutting an incision in the gum and drilling a hole in the jawbone. After surgery, you will follow aftercare instructions, such as sticking to a soft-food diet, avoiding dairy, and practicing proper oral hygiene.

Is tooth restoration painful?

Local anesthesia is administered before the procedure, which reduces discomfort during the process. Sedation is an option for patients who struggle with dental anxiety. Post-procedure discomfort can typically be managed with OTC pain relievers. If you’re struggling to manage your discomfort, we will be happy to help.

What is the difference between restorative dentistry and endodontics?

Restorative dentistry addresses the function and appearance of teeth, with procedures such as dental implants, crowns, and dentures. Endodontics, on the other hand, focuses on the inner layer of the tooth, or the dental pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels are located.

How can I restore my damaged teeth?

The best tooth restoration option depends on the type and severity of the damage. A dentist may recommend fillings, crowns, or inlays/onlays. In some cases, damaged teeth will need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or denture.

How long does teeth restoration last?

The longevity of restorative dental procedures varies based on the type of procedure, the materials used, and your personal oral hygiene and lifestyle habits. In many cases, treatments can last for several years, if not a lifetime.

Dental Implants In Aurora, IL

Q: What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement. This is a device that consists of three pieces: an implant screw, an abutment, and a dental crown. The implant screw is inserted into the jawbone, where it acts as a tooth root. The crown sits on top of the implant screw, replacing the visible portion of the tooth. The abutment connects the two pieces.

Q: What Problems Are Caused by Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can cause a variety of issues, such as speech problems (e.g., lisping or slurring), difficulty eating, teeth shifting, irregular bite (malocclusion), bone loss, and an increased risk of gum disease. These problems can worsen over time if left untreated.

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One of the most common dental concerns faced by adults in the United States is tooth loss. There are several reasons for tooth loss including those beyond our control (genetics) and those that we can control (habits).

If you live in or near Aurora, IL, City of Lights Dental can help you with tooth replacement options or any other dental services you may need. In this article, we’ll explain some of the most common causes of tooth loss, additional problems caused by tooth loss, and one of the most popular tooth replacement options: dental implants.

What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant fuses with the bone, a custom-designed crown is attached to create a natural-looking and fully functional replacement tooth.

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, making them a superior alternative to dentures and bridges. Unlike traditional solutions, implants prevent bone loss, maintain facial structure, and provide unmatched stability for biting and chewing.

A dental implant consists of three main components:

Implant Post: The titanium post acts as an artificial root, integrating with the jawbone to provide a strong foundation for the replacement tooth.

Abutment: The abutment is a small connector that attaches to the implant post and holds the final restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) securely in place.

Crown (or Prosthetic Tooth): The crown is the visible part of the implant, custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring both aesthetics and function.

Benefits of Dental Implants

As we age, it is normal to lose primary teeth- but the secondary, or permanent, teeth that replace them should last a lifetime. However, there are several health conditions and other factors that could cause or increase the risk of tooth loss.

Genetics

Some people have a condition known as tooth agenesis, which is a genetic malformation of the jaw that prevents the secondary teeth from forming. This condition is often present with certain congenital conditions such as Down Syndrome or cleft palate and lip.

The three types of genetically missing teeth are:

Hypodontia: up to 5 natural teeth missing
Oligodontia: 6 or more natural teeth missing
Anodontia: all natural teeth missing

What Problems Are Caused by Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can cause a variety of issues, such as:

Speech/eating

A missing tooth changes the way air moves through the mouth, which can cause lisping or slurring. In addition, it may cause biting into things like corn-on-the cob or fruit awkward and/or painful. Missing molars can make it difficult to chew foods such as meat and other heavy foods that require a lot of chewing. If several teeth are missing, the person may lose weight or become malnourished.

Shifting

When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth will naturally begin to shift to fill in the gap, which can cause teeth to be crooked or uneven. This shifting can make it difficult to clean between teeth, which encourages bacteria growth, which leads to tooth decay.

Irregular bite

Shifting can ultimately result in an irregular bite, or malocclusion, such as a crossbite, underbite, or overbite. This can ultimately lead to headaches or TMD, and can increase the risk of nighttime bruxism.

Bone loss

If your jawbone doesn’t have the stimulation from tooth roots, it will begin to become brittle and deteriorate. This leads to additional tooth loss and increases the risk of gum disease.

Gum disease

A missing tooth exposes the gum, allowing bacteria to settle in. This can lead to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Gum disease can result in a variety of serious and deadly medical conditions.

Our Dental Implant Process at City of Lights Dental

At City of Lights Dental, we follow a precise and patient-focused approach to ensure a successful dental implant procedure. Here’s what you can expect:

Consultation & Evaluation

We begin with a comprehensive exam, including digital X-rays and 3D imaging, to assess your jawbone health and determine if dental implants are right for you. Our team will also review your medical history and discuss any concerns to ensure the best treatment plan for you.

Customized Treatment Planning

Every patient is unique, and so is their dental implant journey. We develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results. If necessary, we may recommend bone grafting or other preparatory procedures to enhance implant stability.

Implant Placement Surgery

During the surgical procedure, the titanium implant post is precisely placed into the jawbone. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure a comfortable experience. Advanced technology and digital guides help us achieve the highest level of accuracy and safety.

Healing & Osseointegration

The healing period, also known as osseointegration, typically takes between three to six months. During this time, the implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong and stable foundation. Temporary restorations may be provided so that you can maintain function and aesthetics during the healing phase.

Abutment Placement & Crown Fabrication

Once osseointegration is complete, we attach an abutment to the implant. The abutment serves as the connection between the implant post and the final restoration. Impressions are then taken to create a custom-designed crown that matches the shape, color, and function of your natural teeth.

Final Restoration & Smile Transformation

After the crown is fabricated, it is securely placed onto the abutment, completing your dental implant. Our team ensures that the restoration fits comfortably, functions properly, and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Post-Treatment Care & Follow-Up

Proper aftercare is essential for the longevity of your dental implants. We provide detailed care instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing and ensure long-term success. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices will help maintain the health and stability of your implants.

How much does dental Implant cost In Aurora, IL?

The cost of a single-tooth dental implant, including the surgery, typically ranges from $3,000 to $4,500. For those considering full-mouth dental implants, the expense is significantly higher, averaging between $29,000 and $40,000 or more per arch.

DENTAL FINANCING OPTIONS AT CITY OF LIGHTS DENTAL

Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; please call at (630) 216-4019 for clarity.

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Meet Our Dentist

Dr. Julie Lies-Keilty, DDS

Born and raised in Aurora, IL, Dr. Julie is honored to serve the community she loves. With a background in nursing and dentistry, she brings a holistic approach to patient care. After graduating from Loyola Dental School in 1990, she joined the family practice founded by her father, Dr. Donald Lies. Passionate about preventative care, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative treatments, Dr. Julie stays ahead of advancements through continuous education and cutting-edge technology. She strives to make every patient feel like family at City of Lights Dental.

Dr. Satish

Dr. Satish is a compassionate and highly skilled dentist with over 20 years of experience in advanced dental care. Inspired by his family’s struggles with oral health, he pursued dentistry with a mission to improve lives through education, prevention, and cutting-edge treatments. Graduating with top honors, he honed his expertise in dental implants and advanced bone grafting at NYU. At City of Lights Dental, Dr. Satish integrates the latest technology with a patient-first approach, ensuring comfortable, efficient, and long-lasting results. He looks forward to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

Why choose City of Lights Dental In Aurora, IL?

At City of Lights Dental, we pride ourselves on our expertise and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring precise and successful dental implant placements. Our experienced implant specialists use advanced imaging and digital planning techniques to provide personalized treatments that cater to each patient’s unique needs. We offer a comfortable, stress-free environment with sedation options and compassionate care to make your experience smooth and worry-free. Additionally, we understand that affordability is key, which is why we provide flexible payment plans to make high-quality dental implants accessible to all.

Ready to Restore Your Smile? Contact Us Today!

If you are missing one or more teeth, schedule your consultation with the team at City of Lights Dental in Aurora. We offer several options for tooth replacement including dental implants. We also offer a variety of other dental services to keep your mouth healthy and help you maintain your natural teeth as long as possible. Take the first step toward a confident, healthier smile with dental implants at City of Lights Dental!

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back—schedule your consultation today!

Dental Implants In Aurora, IL

Dental Implants

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What are Dental Implants?