At Northalsted Dental Spa, we offer tooth replacement solutions using natural-looking dental implants. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or need full smile restoration, we’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable again.
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. They include a small titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root, securely holding a crown or bridge, or dentures in place. Implants fuse with your jawbone to provide stability and support that mimics natural teeth.
Dental Implant Parts: What Makes Up an Implant?
A tooth implant has three key components:
- Implant Post – A titanium post inserted into the jawbone
- Abutment – A connector that attaches to the implant post and secures an artificial tooth, bridge, or dentures
- Dental Crown, Bridge, or Dentures – The visible part of the tooth restoration
You can receive a crown for a single tooth or dentures or an implant-supported bridge to replace multiple teeth. No matter what type of implant procedure you need, our skilled team is here to help you achieve a beautiful smile.
Dental Implants Step by Step: What to Expect During the Procedure
Here’s a look at the dental implant process from start to finish:
1. Consultation & Imaging
We start with a full dental exam and imaging to assess your oral health needs and build your treatment plan.
2. Dental Implant Placement
The titanium implant is placed into your jawbone during an in-office, surgical procedure.
3. Healing & Integration
We wait for your bone to naturally grow around the implant over several months. This process is called osseointegration.
4. Final Restoration
Once the area has healed, we attach the abutment and place a custom dental prosthesis for a complete, restored smile. After the abutment is attached, the gums must fully heal around it before a crown, bridge, or dentures can be placed.
Tooth loss can lead to jawbone atrophy. Some patients require bone grafting before dental implant surgery in order for their jawbone to support the metal post.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Take?
The full timeline for receiving an implant depends on each individual, but here’s a typical breakdown:
- Initial Consultation: 1–2 appointments for examination, imaging, and treatment planning
- Implant Placement: Usually 1 appointment (about 1–2 hours per implant)
- Healing Time: Around 3 to 6 months for bone integration
- Final Restoration: After healing is complete
So, how long does a dental implant take? On average, the process takes 3 to 9 months. If you need bone grafting or additional treatment, it may take longer.
Alternatives to Dental Implants
While implants are a popular restorative dentistry option, they’re not the only one. Common alternatives to dental implants include:
- Dental Bridges – Use neighboring teeth to support a replacement tooth
- Removable Dentures – Dentures and partial dentures that can be taken out
- Implant-Supported Dentures – Dentures that offer more stability without replacing every tooth with an implant
We’ll discuss which option fits your dental needs, lifestyle, and preferences best when you come to Northasted Dental Spa!
Why Choose Northalsted Dental Spa?
- Personalized treatment plans for every patient
- Friendly and welcoming environment
- Focused on comfort and long-term results
- Convenient location in Chicago, IL
Our team is here to provide supportive care from your first visit through your final dental restoration.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re ready to restore your smile with dental implants, Northalsted Dental Spa in Chicago is here to help. We’ll walk you through every step and make sure you feel informed and comfortable throughout the process.
Call us or book an appointment online!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental implant procedure take?
The surgery itself takes about 1–2 hours, but full healing takes a few months.
What are the main parts of a dental implant?
A dental implant includes a metal post (root), abutment (connector), and artificial tooth replacement (bridge, crown, or dentures).
What can I get instead of dental implants for missing teeth?
Options include bridges, traditional dentures, and implant-supported dentures.
Are dental implants painful?
Most patients report only mild soreness after the surgical procedure, which fades quickly with proper care.
