Single Tooth Implant

Even stronger than bones, teeth are the hardest substance present in the body. According to statistics from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), up to 69% of adults between 35 to 44 years of age have lost at least one of their permanent teeth. This is due to issues like tooth decay, gum disease, accidents, or a failed root canal. A missing tooth can negatively affect your self-esteem and cause teeth misalignment and bone loss in the jaw. If you are missing an adult tooth, you should pay an immediate visit to us here at Brookfield Oral Surgery, where our experts can help fill that gap and rebuild your self-esteem.

How can I replace a missing tooth?

Single tooth implants are an effective and efficient way to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant for a single missing tooth consists of a small titanium post (which resembles a screw), an abutment, and a crown. First, we will surgically place the post underneath your gum line, directly into your jawbone. The post will merge with your jawbone and form a solid foundation to restore the shape of your teeth. The post serves as a replacement for the root of your missing tooth. It not only fuses with your bone like a root, but it also stimulates and preserves the structure of your jawbone. After the post is placed, it will take two to six months to heal and recover properly. Once your gums have fully healed from the post, a dental crown, usually made out of porcelain, will be connected to the post through an abutment.

Benefits of a single tooth implant

There are many advantages to replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant. One of the biggest advantages is that it is a long-term solution compared to alternatives such as dental bridges which need constant maintenance. The adjacent teeth are also preserved through an implant, unlike dental bridges which require grounding down of adjacent teeth. Dental implants have a 97% success rate and effortlessly provide the look and function similar to that of natural teeth. Moreover, implants provide ease of care. Caring for dental implants is just like how you would care for other natural teeth.

Are you a candidate for single tooth implants?

For several reasons, dental bridges and dentures are neither practical nor possible for some people. A lack of bone or tooth support, poor dental hygiene, soreness, and gagging are all possible reasons. Dental bridges must also be attached to the teeth on each side of the gap caused by a lost tooth. Implants in this regard are superior as no surrounding teeth must be prepared in order to place your new replacement tooth. Your jawbone must be strong enough to support the dental implant process in order to be eligible for a single tooth implant. The gum tissue and teeth in the area must be in good dental health. Bone grafting can be used to add more bone if there isn’t enough to sustain the dental implant. Read more about whether or not you may be a candidate for dental implants.

A single tooth implant may be ideal for you if you have lost a tooth due to a dental trauma like a sports injury, oral health issues, or gum disease. If you are interested in learning more about single tooth implants or whether they are right for you, please do not hesitate to contact us here at Brookfield Oral Surgery at 708-680-7017 today.