• Dental Implants

  • Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth.

    Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.

    Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene.

    Implants are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic.

    Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.

    Because implants require surgery, patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection following the procedure.

    Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time.

     

    Who Can Have Dental Implants?

    In general, any person at any age may need dental implants. However, it is important to Dr. Zelikow that you:

    • Commit to good oral hygiene
    • Have enough bone to hold the implant in place
    • Are healthy enough to undergo oral surgery
    • Have healthy gums
    • Continue with regular dental visits

    Certain people may need to be more closely examined to determine if they are good candidates for dental implants. This can occur if you: 

    • Are a heavy smoker
    • Suffer from uncontrolled chronic disorders (like heart disease or diabetes)
    • Have had radiation therapy around the head or neck  

    Why Should I Get Dental Implants?

    There are many reasons why dental implants may be right for you. When looking into tooth replacement, consider the following attributes of Dr. Zelikow’s dental implants:

    • Comfort: each implant is individually placed and therefore more comfortable than dentures or bridges
    • Strength: if taken care of properly, they can last you for your entire life
    • Fit: tends to be better than dentures or bridges
    • Appearance: they look and feel like your teeth
    • Speech: since they won’t slip out, you do not run the risk of your implants slurring your words or causing you to mumble  
    • Eating: they stay put so you can eat more easily
    • Oral Health: other teeth do not have to be altered to fit, like with a bridge, so your teeth are left intact
    • Flossing: you can floss around your dental implant and other teeth
    • Cleaner: unlike dentures, there is no need to disinfect or deal with adhesives to keep them in place

    How Do I Get Dental Implant?

    To begin the dental implant process, you should first make an appointment with a licensed dentist. The friendly staff at Dr. Zelikow’s office is ready to take your call and answer any questions you may have about the process. Dr. Zelikow will create a personal treatment plan for you based on your specific situation.

    How Do I Take Care of My Dental Implants?

    Dental implants should be treated just like your real teeth. It is important to brush, floss, rinse with ADA approved mouthwash, and schedule dental check-ups regularly. This will keep your implants and teeth looking great and working well.   

    Give Dr. Zelikow a call at (773) 348-3309 to set up a consultation so he can help you decide if dental implants are the right move for you.