26
Sep
Implants + dentures = A perfect fit!
Dental implants may be one of the best things you can do for your smile and for yourself. Implants can replace one tooth (with a crown). Or, they can be used to replace all of the teeth (with upper and lower dentures).
What are dental implants?
Think of implants as “root substitutes.” These slim pieces of metal replace the roots of missing teeth. Each implant is made from materials that are compatible with your body so that the bone grows into it. Implants become a part of the jawbone.
Does Pleasant Dental® place implants?
Our office works with referred surgeons. Implant placement is still a surgery, albeit a minor one. The surgeon applies each implant to the spots where the roots used to be. We prefer this approach because the more surgical expertise, the better the odds of success. When done properly, implants have a 98% success rate.
How does it feel?
If you’ve ever had your tooth taken out, you should be fine with implant placement. Our patients often describe the experience as similar to an easy extraction or much better than a difficult tooth removal. And if you’re considering different types of tooth replacement, that likely means you have had at least one tooth taken out and you survived the process. So, don’t let the fear of the surgery stand between you and getting your implants.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (708) 576-1900 | Existing Patients: (708) 849-4400 Request an Appointment
What happens after the implant is placed?
We wait for the implant and bone to grow together. Then, we complete the look of the tooth and make it functional again by attaching a crown.
What if I’m missing a lot of teeth?
That’s no problem and we’re here to help. Our surgeons can place implants in the upper or lower jaw. Then, we complete the look and make implants functional with dentures that snap on to them. This creates a super-firm hold.
Can you replace my existing dentures with implants?
Yes! Implant-supported dentures are especially helpful for our patients with lower dentures. Consider how the upper jaw is stable. It’s part of the skull. Upper dentures don’t tend to shift around as much as lower ones. The lower jaw’s horseshoe shape and the force of the tongue can make keeping the denture in place a big headache. We make these concerns a thing of the past by placing two or four implants in the lower jaw. That’s all it takes! Then, we snap the lower denture into them. They stay put in your mouth and are a true, solid solution to missing teeth.
Will my dentures look natural?
All dentures at our office look natural. That’s the key. We don’t want them to look too perfect, at the risk of looking fake or plastic. They look beautiful on you, blending with your natural features. The best compliment we get is when people don’t notice our patients’ dentures. Others will just notice your attractive smile.
Pleasant Dental® is happy to answer other questions you may have about implants and dentures. Give us a call today at (708) 576-1900.
Dean Dietrich, DMD
Dr. Dean Dietrich has been practicing dentistry since 1986, when he received his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University's School of Dental Medicine. He had completed his undergraduate studies in business marketing and management at Michigan State University from 1978 to 1982.He opened Pleasant Dental in 2003 to provide excellent dental care and value for his patients. He is especially skilled and experienced with root canals, implants, and handling dental anxiety.
Dr. Dietrich is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society, and the Indian Dental Association. He is licensed in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan and has orthodontic certification from the Academy of GP Orthodontics. Multiple agencies have recognized him annually as one of America’s Top Dentists.
