Are you in search of an ideal restorative dentistry procedure that can permanently replace a single missing tooth?
There are various tooth replacement options available for fixing a gap in the smile. A lost tooth can be restored by getting a partial denture, a dental bridge flanked by a dental crown, or a single tooth dental implant. However, the most preferred, gold standard tooth replacement option is considered to be dental implants which can replace the entire tooth structure and stay for a lifetime. This article focuses on a single tooth implant, its components, procedure, and benefits.
What is a single tooth dental implant?
A single dental implant replaces only one missing tooth. It has three components:
· The titanium screw-shaped dental implant i.e. either inserted into the jawbone of the lost tooth (endosteal implant) or placed between the gums and jawbone (subperiosteal implant). It behaves as the tooth’s root.
· The titanium, porcelain, or gold abutment which is a connector piece between the implant at the bottom and a fake tooth at the top.
· The artificial tooth i.e. the customized crown usually made of porcelain fused to metal. It is the noticeable part of the entire implant structure that resembles real teeth.
What to expect from dental implant surgery?
During the initial consultation, the prosthodontist examines the gums and teeth of the patient to check if the jawbone is ready to receive a single tooth implant. If there is an inadequate bone structure, bone grafting is done before the implants are placed.
For the placement of an implant, the prosthodontist first makes an incision in the gum tissues and drills a hole in the jawbone to insert the titanium post. It is followed by a healing period that lasts for about 3 to 6 months. During this time, the implant fuses with the jawbone as it heals (the osseointegration process). After the implant is secured in place, the abutment is attached to the titanium screw. Finally, a crown which is designed in a dental laboratory using teeth impressions is placed over the abutment.
Benefits of replacing a missing tooth with an implant:
· A dental implant is a permanent surgical fixture that is rooted in place and cannot move or slide inside the mouth.
· With a tooth implant, the person may not have to worry about them coming off while eating, drinking, brushing, flossing, or speaking. This boosts the self-confidence and self-esteem of an individual.
· It feels, functions, and looks the same as natural teeth.
· An individual does not require special care and maintenance of a single tooth implant, regular oral hygiene is enough just like real teeth.
Thinking about replacing a missing tooth with implants, schedule a free consultation with the dental implant experts at Eon Clinics.
