Single Tooth Replacement
If you are missing a single tooth, one implant, the implant abutment, and a crown restoration can replace that missing tooth. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root and preserves the dental bone that supports the implant as well.
What are the advantages of a single-tooth implant over a bridge or a removable partial denture?
A dental implant provides several advantages over other tooth replacement options. In addition to looking and functioning like a natural tooth, a dental implant replaces a single tooth without sacrificing the health of neighboring teeth. The other common treatment for the loss of a single tooth, a tooth-supported fixed bridge, requires that adjacent teeth be ground down to support the cemented bridge.
Because a dental implant will replace your tooth root, the bone is better preserved. With a bridge, some of the bone that previously surrounded the tooth, which was removed, begins to resorb (deteriorate). Dental implants integrate with your jawbone, helping to keep the jawbone healthy and intact.
In the long term, a single implant can be more esthetic and easier to keep clean than a bridge. Jawbone and gums can recede around a bridge, leaving a visible defect above the missing tooth site. The metal base or collar of the bridge may also become exposed. The resorbed bone above the bridge can lead to an unattractive smile. And, the cement holding the bridge in place can wash out, allowing bacteria to cause tooth decay (cavities) that support the bridge. This process is known as “recurrent decay” usually causes the bridge to fail and need replaced with is costly. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/bridges-and-crowns/when-you-need-dental-bridge-repair-1014
Defect that can occur above the tooth replacement site with a fixed bridge is not only unsightly but can affect your speech.
How will the implant be placed?
First, the implant, which looks like a screw or cylinder, is placed into your jawbone. Over the next two to six months, the implant and the bone are allowed to bond together to form an anchor for your artificial tooth. During this time, a temporary tooth replacement option can be worn over the implant site.
Often, a second step of the procedure is necessary to uncover the implant and attach a temporary healing cap. This temporary healing cap allows your dentist access to complete your dental implant restoration (new tooth crown). Your gums will be allowed to heal for the next couple of weeks following this procedure. Your gums will be shaped so that your new crown will look natural.
Finally, a replacement tooth called a crown will be created for you by your general dentist and attached via a post, called an abutment, which connects your crown to your dental implant. This important connector piece (the abutment) is carefully designed by your general dentist to ensure a precise fit of the implant crown to the dental implant. Dental implants allow you to experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak. Dental implants are natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth.
Every case is different, and some of these steps can be combined when conditions permit. Dr. Ira and Dr. Lori will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for you.