A single-tooth dental implant is intended to be a permanent solution for tooth loss. The single-tooth implant contains multiple parts that make it stronger and more durable. Once you have a single-tooth dental implant, you should not need any more treatment in the affected area once the area fully heals. When you consult a dental surgeon, you will learn the best solution for you and how the surgeon can help you.
A Bridge Is Not Always the Best Option
When you are missing a tooth, your options can include a dental implant or a bridge. The latter option may not be the most practical. First, your mouth will look different. Second, your gums can recede in the area of the bridge. You may need further treatment when you receive a bridge. Then, the health of the neighboring teeth could be jeopardized if there are any issues with the bridge. The surgeon would need to grind down the surrounding teeth to support the bridge, which can damage them in the long run.
What Is the Dental Implant Process?
In consultation with your surgeon, you may find receiving a single-tooth dental implant worthwhile. This type of implant consists of the following:
- The actual implant will be inserted into your jaw first. The implant is a screw or cylinder that is meant to replace the root of your tooth. At this point, the surgeon may put a temporary tooth over the implant site to keep it covered while it heals.
- The second step is to uncover the implant and attach an extension. This can function as a temporary cap that allows your gums to heal for several weeks until the next step.
- Once your gum has healed, the surgeon will create a crown and place it on the implant. They will use an abutment to connect the crown to the implant. You may end up with a natural-looking tooth, and it may never even look like you lost a tooth in the first place.
The Surgeon Will Help You Decide What Is Right for You
Each dental implant process may differ, depending on what the surgeon finds when they comprehensively evaluate your mouth. Much depends on the condition of your gums and the surrounding area. The surgeon will begin by assessing your condition and determining which procedure may be right for you. Even the steps of the procedure may differ, depending on the individual surgeon and what they find in your mouth. For example, the surgeon may skip the second step of the process and proceed straight to creating the crown after your gums have healed.
A single-tooth dental implant can be a far more effective and permanent solution. Moreover, you will have a new smile that could improve your appearance. Your implant and crown will function like a natural tooth, and your mouth may look as good as new.
Contact a South Jersey Oral Surgeon at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Today
A South Jersey oral surgeon at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons can comprehensively evaluate and recommend the treatment that makes the most sense for you. The first step is to call us at 856-582-4222 or complete our online form to make an appointment to see a surgeon. We have offices in Washington Township, Haddonfield, and Woolwich Township, New Jersey, and we help patients across South Jersey.