Single Dental Implant Procedure
One of the most recommended options for replacing one tooth is a single dental implant. The single dental implant functions just like a natural tooth, so you can resume normal habits and easily eat, brush, or floss the tooth. A dental implant’s benefits go far beyond the aesthetic benefits; not only will it replace the missing tooth to restore your smile, but the dental implant fuses with your jaw bone, leaving the bone healthy and intact. This also offers patients easier, long-term maintenance.
A single tooth dental implant procedure should always be performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The placement is a three-step process. First, the screw-like dental implant is placed directly into the jaw bone where the missing tooth used to be. The dental implant will then be covered with a temporary cap while it heals for a few weeks. After the dental implant has healed and fused with the jaw bone, a small metal post called the abutment will be inserted into the dental implant to act as an anchor for the prosthesis. The last step is to secure the prosthesis - a custom-created crown on top of the abutment. Once all steps are completed, you are left with a permanent, natural-looking tooth that does not disrupt or alter any of your other teeth. When the surgical site is completely healed, and the dental implant has fully integrated into the bone, you will notice the dental implant looks and feels like your other teeth! You will be able to resume eating all of your favorite foods and enjoy your restored smile.
There are other options, such as tooth-supported bridges that fill the gap between your teeth, but this restoration often requires the alteration of healthy teeth to support the cemented bridge and can burden your adjacent teeth. If you have lost a tooth, you are probably researching your options for tooth restoration. Whether you lost your tooth to decay or trauma, dental implant surgery is the most popular option. It is easy and cost-effective; plus, patients are the most pleased with their permanent, natural-looking results.