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Implants & Prosthodontics in Chicago, IL

Gum Health & Implants

Replacing missing teeth with dental implants and custom-fitted dentures.

Dental implants provide a permanent base for fixed, replacement teeth. We work with amazing specialists to provide our patients with dental implants.

A dental implant model

Tooth replacement includes

  • An exam and a talk about which teeth are missing
  • A look at implants, dentures and other options
  • Referral to a trusted specialist for implant placement
  • Custom-fitted full or partial dentures
  • Follow-up visits for adjustments and cleanings

Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a permanent base for fixed, replacement teeth. Compared to dentures, bridges and crowns, dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth or chronic dental problems. Because they fit, feel and function like natural teeth, dental implants are quickly becoming a new standard in tooth replacement. We work with amazing specialists to provide our patients with dental implants.

Dentures

If you are missing teeth, dentures can provide a positive solution to improving your oral health. We are proud to provide dentures that are designed to fit your mouth for proper function and unique comfort. Following your appointment, we will provide you with information on at-home care for your dentures. We strongly recommend scheduling follow-up appointments for periodic denture cleanings.

A set of custom dentures

Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth

Missing teeth affect more than your smile. Gaps can make chewing and speaking harder, and nearby teeth may slowly shift into the open space, changing your bite. Over time, the jawbone where a tooth was lost can also shrink.

Dental implants replace the root of a tooth as well as the crown. Anchored in the jaw, an implant can help preserve bone without relying on neighboring teeth. We work with specialists for implant placement and coordinate your care along the way.

Dentures are a well-established, removable option for replacing several teeth or a full arch. A partial denture fills gaps between remaining natural teeth, while a full denture replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They can suit patients who want a less involved treatment or aren’t implant candidates.

What to Expect

It starts with an exam. Dr. Sowell will examine your mouth and help you compare options. If implants are a good fit, we’ll refer you to a specialist, who will usually place the implant post and allow several months for it to fuse with the bone before the final tooth is attached.

Dentures usually take a few visits. Impressions and measurements are taken so your dentures can be made to fit your mouth, and you may try in a model before the final set is finished. It’s common for new dentures to feel strange at first, and speaking and eating may take a few weeks of practice.

For implants, brush and floss as you would natural teeth and keep up with regular cleanings. For dentures, clean them daily, take them out overnight if your dentist recommends it. We recommend periodic check-ups so we can clean your dentures and check the fit.

Common Questions

Should I choose dental implants or dentures?

It depends on how many teeth are missing, the health of your gums and jawbone, your budget and your preferences. Your dentist will help you weigh the options.

Who places my dental implants?

We work with specialists to provide dental implants for our patients. Our team will talk through your options and coordinate a referral.

How long do dental implants last?

With good care, implants are often a very long-lasting option, and many last for decades.

How long does it take to get used to dentures?

Most people need a few weeks to adjust to eating and speaking with new dentures. Soft foods cut into small pieces help at first. If sore spots don’t improve, let us know so we can check the fit.

Does insurance cover implants or dentures?

Coverage depends on your plan and the type of treatment. Our team can help you check your benefits, and you can learn more on our insurance, payment options and in-office plan pages.

Terms You May Hear

Osseointegration
The process in which the jawbone grows around and bonds with an implant post, giving it a firm foundation.
Abutment
A small connector that attaches to the implant post and holds the replacement crown in place.
Partial denture
A removable appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth and is held in place by the remaining natural teeth.

Ready to talk about replacing missing teeth?

Schedule a visit at our Chicago office and we’ll help you compare implants and dentures.

After hours: 312-910-0995