Missing teeth can change how you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. Dental implants offer a natural-looking, long-lasting way to restore both comfort and confidence. At Stephens Dentistry in Evanston, IL, our team uses implants to rebuild smiles with dependable results. Schedule your consultation today to see how dental implants can help you rediscover your confidence.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants replace missing teeth with artificial roots placed in the jawbone to support lifelike restorations. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, helping you eat, smile, and speak comfortably. With regular home care and professional visits, implants can remain strong for many years.
- Seamless look: Each implant is customized to blend naturally with surrounding teeth
- Stable function: Lets you enjoy your favorite meals and speak clearly
- Long-lasting results: Designed to provide dependable strength with proper care
- Oral health support: Helps maintain bone structure and prevent shifting teeth
Comparing Dental Implants To Other Tooth Replacement Options
While dentures and bridges can restore missing teeth, they do not provide the same stability or feel as implants. Because implants are secured in the jawbone, they offer comfort, confidence, and durability that other solutions cannot match. Patients often find that implants become an effortless part of everyday life.
- Natural comfort: Unlike dentures that may move, implants stay secure when eating or laughing
- Preserves bone health: Traditional restorations rest on the gums, but implants keep the jawbone stimulated
- Independent strength: No need to reshape nearby healthy teeth for support
- Long-term reliability: Bridges or dentures may need replacement, while implants are built for longevity
The Dangers Of Resorption After Tooth Loss
When a tooth is lost, the bone that once supported it begins to weaken in a process called resorption. Without stimulation from a tooth root, the jawbone gradually loses volume and strength. Over time, this can change facial contours and make future dental treatment more challenging.
- Bone shrinkage: The jawbone thins and loses height where teeth are missing
- Facial changes: The cheeks and lips can appear sunken, creating an aged look
- Bite imbalance: Nearby teeth may drift, leading to uneven pressure when chewing
- Treatment challenges: Significant bone loss can limit future restoration options
Left untreated, bone resorption can progress and make full restoration more difficult. That’s why early tooth replacement is important for preserving both oral health and appearance.
The Process
Getting dental implants involves a few well-planned steps designed for comfort and long-term results. It begins with a consultation to create your personalized treatment plan. Once the implant is placed and healed, a custom restoration is attached to complete your smile.
- Consultation and planning: Dr. Montoya or another team member reviews your goals and designs a treatment plan
- Implant placement: A small biocompatible post is gently positioned within the jawbone for support
- Healing period: The implant bonds naturally with the bone to create a strong foundation
- Final restoration: A custom crown, bridge, or denture is secured for natural function and appearance
Types Of Dental Implants
Dental implants can replace one tooth, several teeth, or even an entire arch. Each option is tailored to fit your needs while restoring full function and appearance. Below are the main types of implants available, each designed for a specific level of restoration.
Single Tooth Implants
A single tooth implant is ideal when only one tooth is missing. It stands independently and does not require altering the surrounding teeth. This makes it a conservative, natural-looking option for filling small gaps.
- Independent structure: Replaces a single tooth without relying on others for support
- Natural appearance: Blends in perfectly with nearby teeth for a seamless look
- Reliable strength: Lets you bite and chew comfortably with confidence
- Easy care: Cleaned just like a natural tooth with regular brushing and flossing
Implant-Supported Bridges
When several teeth in a row are missing, implant-supported bridges provide secure and lasting replacement. They are anchored by implants instead of neighboring teeth, preserving the health of your natural enamel. The result is a stable, natural-feeling restoration that enhances comfort and function.
- Strong support: Implants hold the bridge securely for better bite strength
- Tooth protection: No reshaping or grinding of healthy teeth required
- Durable performance: Handles everyday eating and speaking with ease
- Balanced design: Helps distribute chewing forces evenly across your smile
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are an excellent solution for patients missing most or all of their teeth. Unlike removable dentures, they lock firmly into place, improving stability and comfort. Many patients find they can eat a wider variety of foods and smile freely again.
- Secure fit: Stays in place without slipping during meals or conversation
- Enhanced comfort: Reduces gum irritation caused by movement or adhesives
- Improved confidence: Eliminates the worry of dentures shifting or clicking
- Natural function: Provides a full, comfortable bite similar to real teeth
What To Expect During Recovery
Recovery after implant placement is usually smooth and manageable. Mild discomfort may occur for a short time, but most patients return to normal routines within a few days. Following aftercare instructions and attending follow-up visits help ensure long-term success.
- Short adjustment period: Temporary soreness that eases as healing progresses
- Gentle care: Soft brushing and saltwater rinses keep the area clean
- Follow-up visits: Appointments help monitor healing and implant stability
- Lasting results: Once healed, implants provide dependable support for years
Rediscover What It Feels
Like To Smile Freely
Dental implants do more than restore missing teeth—they bring back the strength, beauty, and confidence that define a healthy smile. They protect your jawbone, enhance daily comfort, and let you enjoy life without the limits of removable restorations. Choosing trusted providers at Stephens Dentistry in Evanston, IL, ensures personalized care every step of the way. Schedule your consultation today and rediscover what it feels like to smile freely.