Single Tooth Implant Restorations
Frederick, MD
Losing a single tooth, especially when that tooth is out of view when you smile, might not seem like a big deal. The truth, however, is that even losing a single tooth can significantly impact your life. Traditionally, a single tooth has been replaced with a dental bridge. While effective, a bridge cannot stop the bone loss that follows tooth loss. At Dental Arts of Frederick, we can replace a missing tooth and protect your jawbone with a single tooth implant restoration.
Traditional Treatment for a Single Missing Tooth
Traditionally, a single tooth has been replaced with a bridge. A bridge is a fixed restoration that consists of a false tooth, called a Pontic tooth, with crowns on both sides. The crowns are meant to sit over the teeth adjacent to the empty space, anchoring the restoration securely in place. While bridges help to restore many of the functions of your missing tooth and the appearance of your smile, they cannot stop the bone loss in your jaw. This results in the need to periodically replace your restoration to accommodate your changing bone.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a modern alternative to a traditional bridge. Implants are quite versatile and can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. This treatment uses a small titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone. Your bone then fuses gradually to the post, incorporating it into your jaw and turning it into a replacement root. This new root provides support for a dental crown, which acts as your replacement tooth.
How is an Implant Placed?
Getting your single tooth implant requires a surgical procedure, which is done under a local anesthetic and sedation. We begin with a small incision in your gums, exposing the bone underneath. Next, a hole is drilled into your jaw, and the implant is placed directly inside. Your gums are sutured around the post, leaving a small portion exposed above the gumline. Finally, a temporary tooth is placed.
Healing from implant surgery can take several weeks. During this time, your bone gradually fuses to the post, integrating into your jaw. Several follow-ups allow us to monitor your healing and make sure there are no complications. Once you have fully healed, we can then begin the process for placing your final restoration, which is made from an impression of your mouth and screwed into place on the post.
The Benefits of a Single Tooth Implant Restoration
Single tooth implants provide many benefits.
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Your replacement tooth looks exactly like your natural teeth. No one will be able to tell the difference between your false tooth and your real teeth.
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The implant functions just like the rest of your real teeth. You can eat and speak normally again.
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Your tooth is supported by the implant post rather than your surrounding teeth. Not only does this prevent pressure on the adjacent teeth, but it also avoids the need for removing enamel from perfectly healthy teeth as well.
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You can brush and floss your implant just like your real teeth.
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The post functions as a replacement root. It restores stimulation to your jaw, stopping and preventing bone loss. |
If you are missing a tooth, even one not seen when you smile, it is essential that you have it replaced right away. Call Dental Arts of Frederick today at 301-732-7277 to schedule your consultation and find out if a single tooth implant restoration is right for you.
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