Dental Implants in Wheaton, IL

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth root once was. Over the course of several months, the post fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration, creating an incredibly strong and stable foundation. A custom-made crown is then attached to the implant, completing the restoration.

Because implants replace the root, they stimulate the jawbone just like a natural tooth, preventing the bone loss that inevitably occurs when a tooth is missing. This is a critical advantage that no other tooth replacement option provides.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Permanent and Durable

Implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. The titanium post becomes a permanent part of your jaw, and the crown is built to withstand daily chewing forces.

Preserve Jawbone Health

When a tooth is lost, the bone beneath it begins to deteriorate. An implant stimulates the bone and prevents the shrinkage that leads to a sunken facial appearance over time.

Look and Feel Natural

The crown is custom-designed to match the shape, size, and color of your surrounding teeth. Most people cannot tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.

No Impact on Adjacent Teeth

Unlike a bridge, an implant does not require altering the teeth next to the gap. Your healthy teeth stay untouched.

Eat Without Restrictions

Implants function like natural teeth, so you can eat all your favorite foods without worry — no adhesives, no slipping, no limitations.

The Implant Process

Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation

Dr. de la Fuente examines your mouth, reviews digital X-rays and 3D imaging, and evaluates your jawbone density to determine if you are a candidate for implants.

Step 2: Implant Placement

The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation options available for comfort.

Step 3: Healing and Integration

Over the next 3 to 6 months, the implant fuses with the jawbone. A temporary restoration keeps your smile looking complete during this healing phase.

Step 4: Custom Crown Placement

Once the implant has fully integrated, an abutment is placed and a custom porcelain crown is attached. The result is a tooth that looks and performs exactly like the real thing.

Implant-Supported Solutions

Implants are not just for single teeth. They can also anchor:

• Implant-supported bridges for multiple missing teeth
• All-on-4 full-arch restorations for an entire arch of teeth
• Implant-retained dentures for a secure, snap-in alternative to traditional dentures