Dental Implants in Chicago
Precision dental implant placement at Big City Dental — restoring function, confidence, and long-term oral health in Lakeview, on Chicago’s Northside.
Dental Implants
Dental implants in Chicago are one of the most transformative procedures in modern dentistry. At Big City Dental, Dr. Nilay Patel combines advanced training through the American Academy of Implant Dentistry with CBCT cone beam imaging technology to deliver implant placements that are precise, minimally invasive, and designed to last a lifetime. If you are living with a missing tooth, implants are the closest thing to getting your natural tooth back.
What Are Dental Implants: A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as a replacement tooth root. Once the implant fuses with the bone — a process called osseointegration — a custom crown is attached on top. The result is a single, stable tooth that looks, feels, and functions exactly like a natural one.
Why Dental Implants Are the Gold Standard
Permanent and Long-Lasting
Unlike dentures or bridges, a dental implant is designed to last decades — often a lifetime — with proper care. It is the most durable tooth replacement option available.
Preserves Jawbone and Facial Structure
When a tooth is lost, the bone beneath it begins to deteriorate. An implant stimulates the jawbone just like a natural root, preventing bone loss and maintaining your facial structure over time.
No Impact on Adjacent Teeth
A traditional bridge requires grinding down the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. An implant stands completely on its own, leaving your surrounding teeth untouched.
Eat and Speak Normally
Implants are anchored securely in the bone, which means there is no slipping, shifting, or discomfort when you eat, laugh, or speak. You can enjoy all the foods you love without restriction.
Advanced Imaging for Precision Placement
Dr. Nilay uses CBCT cone beam CT scanning to create a three-dimensional map of your jaw before placing any implant. This level of precision reduces surgical time, improves outcomes, and minimizes recovery.
The Dental Implant Process
Step 1 — Comprehensive Implant Consultation
Dr. Nilay will review your oral health, take CBCT imaging, and evaluate your bone density and gum health to determine whether you are a good implant candidate. He will walk you through the full process, timeline, and cost before anything is scheduled.
Step 2 — Implant Placement
The titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone under local anesthetic. The procedure is completed chairside, and most patients are surprised by how comfortable and straightforward the experience is. In qualifying cases, same-day implant placement is available.
Step 3 — Healing and Integration
Over the next three to six months, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone through a natural process called osseointegration. During this time, a temporary restoration may be placed to maintain appearance and function.
Step 4 — Abutment Placement
Once the implant has fully integrated, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the top of the post. This provides the foundation for your permanent crown.
Step 5 — Custom Crown Placement
Using Trios 3D digital impressions, Dr. Nilay creates a precise model for your custom crown. The finished crown is designed to match your surrounding teeth in color, shape, and size for a completely seamless result.
Common Questions
FAQ's
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with good general health and adequate bone density are candidates for dental implants. Conditions like diabetes or gum disease do not automatically disqualify you — they may simply require additional steps before placement. The best way to find out is a consultation with Dr. Nilay.
How long does the implant process take?
From placement to final crown, the typical implant process takes three to six months. Most of that time is the healing period between placement and crown attachment. The actual chair time for each appointment is relatively short.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The placement is performed under local anesthetic, so most patients feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Mild soreness for a few days after surgery is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to normal activities the next day.
What if I don't have enough bone for an implant?
Dr. Nilay performs bone grafting procedures to build up the bone in areas where density has been lost. Once the graft heals, implant placement can proceed as normal. He will tell you upfront if a graft is needed and what that process involves.
How much do dental implants cost?
Implant costs vary based on the number of teeth being replaced and whether additional procedures like bone grafting are needed. Big City Dental offers Cherry financing and Archy payment plans to make treatment accessible. Our in-house savings plan members also receive 15% off all in-office procedures.
Happy Patients
What Our Patients Say
Our patients come from across Chicago’s Northside neighborhoods. Here’s what they’re saying about their experience at Big City Dental.
4.8 out of 5 on Google160+ reviews
I've been going to this practice for over 30 years, and my long-time dentist finally retired a few months ago. I'm very happy to report that the new dentist who has taken over is a very sociable, knowledgeable, and trustworthy person. I'll be happy to continue going here for another 30 years!
Tom T.Google review · I can’t say enough good things about this dental office. From the moment you walk in, everyone is kind, welcoming, and professional. The dentist truly takes the time to explain everything, answer questions, and make sure you’re comfortable throughout the entire visit. I always feel like I’m in great hands and that they genuinely care about doing excellent work—not rushing or cutting corners. The quality of care is consistently wonderful, and I leave every appointment feeling confident and well taken care of. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a dentist they can truly trust!
Elli B.Google review · Been a patient here for years, and every time I leave, I swear I’m going to floss every day… it lasts about a week, but they never judge me! The hygienists are gentle, esp Abby. Dr. Nilay is awesome, and they somehow make dental cleanings almost enjoyable. Highly recommend this crew!
Megan L.Google review · Big City Dental was clean, efficient, and friendly. I will be requesting Abby every time I go now!
Patrick L.Google review · I would definitely recommend Big City Dental to everyone that I know. My Hygienist Ashley was very efficient and thorough and my teeth especially clean. I was totally impressed. I will definitely recommend Ashley to all my family and friends.
mark D.Google review · Big City Dental is by far the best Dental Office that l have ever been to. The front office staff is very friendly and efficient. Ashley, the hygienist was excellent! The cleaning that I received was very thorough and comprehensive. Ashley took time to answer all my questions and reassured me regarding all my dental concerns. Ashley was the best hygienist that I have ever seen!
Amy D.Google review · I’m always nervous going to the dentist because I don’t always take good care of myself. Serena and Racquel helped me feel welcome, Will be coming back soon for another visit!
amazinggurl4lifeGoogle review · I highly recommend, Racquel & Sarina made me feel welcomed! They explained everything I needed to know with kindness & compassion. They were both so patient and helped easy my anxiety.The office was nice & very clean. I highly recommend this office.
Venus R.Google review · I highly recommend Big City Dental! The office is very clean & lovely. The staff is professional and kind. Racquel & Sarina made my experience pleasant. They set the energy of the office with quality care & compassion. Thank You!
Sophia R.Google review · I had such a wonderful experience with Raquel and Serena. They were incredibly kind, patient, and professional from start to finish. Their calming personalities and friendly attitudes made the entire visit so much more comfortable. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I felt at ease throughout the appointment. You can truly tell they care about their patients. Thank you, Raquel and Serena, for providing such exceptional care—your teamwork and positivity make all the difference! 🌟🦷
Jeanine P.Google review · Amazing establishment shout out Raquel for the amazing service
Bridget W.Google review · It feels good to come to a dental establishment that you can trust, Raquel went above and beyond to make my experience great. Thank you 🙏🏻
Kyle W.Google review ·
A selection of recent 4 and 5 star Google reviews. The rating reflects all reviews.
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Big City Dental on Southport Ave is accepting new patients. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or ready to transform your smile, Dr. Nilay and the team are here to make it easy!