Dentistry has come a long, long way since the days when extraction without replacement was the go-to solution for many complaints.
Unfortunately, the misconception still persists that missing teeth are at least harmless, if not ideal.
The truth is, even one missing tooth can cause:
- Gum disease
- Bone loss
- Changes in bite and alignment of remaining teeth
- Uneven wear on remaining teeth
- Asymmetrical stress on the facial muscles, leading to headaches
This doesn’t even account for the obvious potential issues with confidence and comfort.
Regardless of whether your missing tooth is easily visible, or causes you any trouble while eating, replacing it is a worthy investment in your future health and quality of life.
Single tooth implant procedure
Every implant procedure is unique, and the process starts with a personal consultation. You’ll have a chance to discuss your goals and concerns with the doctor, ask questions about your options, and help us tailor a treatment plan to your needs.
In general, you can expect the process to include:
- Pre-op evaluation.
The doctor will examine your mouth and take necessary X-rays of the area. This helps us anticipate any challenges and ensure ideal placement of the implant.
- Dental implant procedure.
Using local anesthesia, the doctor will place a titanium implant post in your jaw. Although the post will take two to four months to integrate fully with your jawbone, the soreness from the procedure usually lasts only a week or two.
- Crown placement.
The actual artificial tooth that you will be able to see and use is referred to as a crown. It attaches to the end of your titanium implant, right at the gumline.
- Post-op care.
You may need one or more follow-up appointments to make sure your implant is healing well and working for you. Once the process is complete, you can use and care for your implant just as you would a natural tooth.
Advantages of single-tooth dental implants:
- They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and can last a lifetime with proper care.
- They don’t require alterations to adjacent healthy teeth, unlike bridges.
- They help preserve the health of the jawbone, gums, and adjacent teeth.
