Single Tooth Replacement With a Dental Implant

A dental implant replaces a single tooth with a metal post, abutment, and crown. General dentists recommend prompt tooth replacement because even the loss of one tooth can disrupt a smile's alignment and function. Though there are other effective options, dental implants offer clear advantages for good candidates.

The importance of single tooth replacement

Losing only one tooth, even if the space is not visible when smiling, can negatively impact oral health. The longer the tooth remains missing, the more the teeth around it will shift to fill the space. This can throw the smile out of alignment, affecting speech and chewing function. Prolonged loss can contribute to the gradual loss of jawbone density in the area where the tooth is missing. Therefore, making tooth replacement a priority is crucial.

Dental implants vs. traditional options

Before dental implants, the two options were either a dental bridge or a partial denture. A dental bridge is a fixed option that anchors the tooth replacement to the surrounding teeth. A partial denture is a removable appliance that attaches to the surrounding teeth. This option is not fixed and must be removed for cleaning, but it requires no alteration to the surrounding teeth. A bridge is fixed but requires alteration to the natural teeth. Single tooth replacement with a dental implant offers a fixed option that does not require altering the surrounding teeth, among other benefits.

Benefits of a dental implant for single tooth replacement

Dental implants are a desirable option for several reasons. In addition to being fixed in place without disturbing the surrounding teeth, they are long-lasting and durable. Though the dental crown will eventually need replacing, the implant post can last a lifetime with proper care. Also, a dental implant is the only single tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth's root, providing important jawbone stimulation to help prevent bone loss.

The dental implant process

The specifics of getting a dental implant can vary by patient. If no preparatory work is needed and there are no complications, the entire process will take three to six months. It begins with the surgery to place the implant post. After that, there is a healing period of about three to six months. Also, during this time, the implant post must integrate into the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. When this is complete, the abutment is attached, followed by the dental crown. These two steps may be done during separate procedures.

Who is a candidate?

An ideal candidate should have good jawbone density and oral and physical health. Patients must be healthy enough for surgery and have enough jawbone to support the dental implant. The patient must be free of active oral infections and have well-controlled gum disease. Smoking and uncontrolled chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease may disqualify someone from receiving a dental implant.