Single Tooth Replacement

SINGLE TOOTH MISSING

When a single tooth is missing, an implant can be the ideal solution. In just a few months the missing tooth can be restored with an implant that looks and feels just like your natural tooth!


COURSE OF TREATMENT

INSTALLING THE NEW TOOTH – STEP-BY-STEP

 

   
1: Before the procedure
The dentist makes a first examination and takes one or more x-rays of the area to prepare for the procedure.

2: Installing the implant
The implant is installed by an oral surgeon. At this time, a temporary flipper  is provided, if needed, until the implant integrates into the patients existing bone. The implant will need a few months to integrate with the jawbone before the next step is taken.

   
3: Attaching the new crown
After the implant is integrated, an abutment is fitted, and multiple impressions are taken and sent to the laboratory for final crown fabrication. That day, the patient is given a temporary crown that feels and funtions almost like the final implant crown.
4: End result
In approximately 3 weeks, the permanent implant crown is returned from the lab. It is adjusted, polished, and inserted. You should expect the new tooth to fit and function just like a natural tooth.


 
ALTERNATIVES TO AN ALL-CERAMIC CROWN ON IMPLANT

  Tooth-supported fixed bridge
A traditional bridge involves reshaping adjacent teeth to support the bridge. It is a stable solution with good esthetics and function that usually takes 2 visits to complete. 
 

Removable partial denture
A removable partial denture replaces multiple teeth in an arch, restores form and function, and is a better alternative to having missing teeth. However, it is a removable appliance, and implants or fixed bridges are the treatment of choice before considering partial dentures.