Tooth loss can result from various factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, or an oral injury. At Rekos & Border Oral Surgery, we are committed to ensuring that every individual achieves optimal oral health.
Whether you're missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, you may be an ideal candidate for dental implants. A single tooth dental implant can have a profound impact on your oral well-being, enhancing your appearance, speech clarity, and chewing efficiency.
Also On This Page
| • | |
| • | |
| • | |
| • |
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a prosthetic device used to replace a missing tooth (or multiple missing teeth) by mimicking the structure and function of a natural tooth root. Dental implants are typically made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once implanted, they fuse with the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for various dental restorations, including crowns, bridges, or dentures.A single tooth dental implant, as the name suggests, is a dental implant specifically designed to replace a single missing tooth.
Components of Single Tooth Dental Implants
Single tooth implants consist of three primary components: the implant post, connector, and the dental crown. The implant is typically made out of titanium. Once placed, it serves as a stable anchor in the location where your natural tooth root once existed.The abutment functions as a connector between the implant and the crown. Abutments are often crafted from titanium as well. Porcelain and gold can be used too. Lastly, the dental crown is the visible portion of your new tooth, often composed of a combination of metal and porcelain or made entirely of metal or porcelain.
Benefits of Single Tooth Replacement
Single tooth dental implants offer several advantages when compared to dental bridges. Traditional bridges involve permanently structuring multiple teeth, with the teeth at each end being hollow for attachment using dental cement.
The benefits of dental implants over bridges include:
| • | Preservation of natural teeth, as implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, unlike tooth-supported bridges |
| • | Elimination of the need for tooth removal, which can have long-term consequences on oral health |
| • | Longer lifespan, with implants potentially lasting a lifetime when properly maintained, whereas bridges typically last about 10 years. |
| • | Stabilization of adjacent teeth and prevention of gum disease by filling potential bacterial growth sites |
| • | Improved speech and overall oral function |
Single Tooth Implant Procedure
The placement of single tooth dental implants is a multi-step process spanning several months. Initially, the implant is carefully inserted into the gums, allowing for fusion with the adjacent jawbone. The duration between implant placement and crown attachment varies based on jawbone density, with upper jaw placements typically requiring more time due to lower bone density.
The entire procedure typically ranges from six to nine months, varying based on individual circumstances, with our experts providing a more accurate estimate.Upon successful osseointegration - fusion of the dental implant with the jawbone, the abutment is securely attached to the implant, and a temporary crown is placed on the connector during the healing phase. Once that has healed, a permanent crown is custom-fitted, marking the completion of the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The longevity of an implant largely depends on good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups.
What Can A Single Tooth Dental Implant Help With?
A single tooth dental implant replaces one missing tooth without affecting neighboring teeth.
It restores the functionality of your bite, maintains the alignment of surrounding teeth, and helps preserve jawbone density. Additionally, it provides a cosmetic solution that looks and feels like a natural tooth, enhancing both the aesthetics and health of your mouth.
Single Tooth Implants in Dublin OH
To explore the full potential of single tooth dental implants offered by Rekos & Border Oral Surgery, please contact us at (614) 764-9455.
