Single Tooth Implants
When you lose a single tooth, particularly when it is toward the back of your mouth where it cannot be seen, you might not think that it is really a big deal. After all, no one can see it, so it does not affect you. This could not be farther from the truth. Losing even one tooth can have serious consequences on your oral hygiene, your overall health, and your quality of life. It can even impact your smile over time. At Sussex Dental, we can provide you with a replacement for your missing tooth with single tooth implants.
Why is Replacing One Tooth So Important?One of the most obvious effects of losing a tooth is the impact that the event has on your smile and your confidence. Many people think that if their missing tooth is out of view when they smile, it is not a big deal and does not need to be replaced. However, even out of sight, a missing tooth can significantly impact your life.| • |
It becomes more difficult to eat. Food can get stuck in the empty space, which can increase your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, with the inability to chew properly, your digestion suffers which can then impact your nutrition.
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You may develop a lisp.
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Bite forces become uneven, which can increase the risk of damage to the teeth adjacent to the space.
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Your adjacent teeth begin to shift out of alignment, which alters your bite and can lead to issues such as bruxism. |
What is a Dental Implant?A dental implant is a treatment for replacing a missing tooth, providing a modern alternative to a traditional bridge. The implant consists of 3 parts.| • |
The post. The post, typically made from titanium, is surgically placed into your jawbone. Your bone fuses to the post in a process called osseointegration. This process stabilizes the post in your jaw so that it can hold your dental restoration securely in place.
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The abutment. The abutment, or connector, is placed at the top of the post. It helps to provide stability for your restoration.
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The dental restoration. The dental restoration is the actual replacement tooth. Typically made from ceramic, it looks and functions exactly like a real tooth. |
How is a Dental Implant Placed?Getting a dental implant is a bit more involved than placing a bridge. It requires a surgical procedure, which is done under a local anesthetic. If you are feeling anxious, sedation can also be provided. Surgery begins with a small incision in your gums, exposing the bone underneath. Next, a hole is drilled into the bone, and the post is placed directly inside. Finally, the gums are sutured closed around the post, and a temporary tooth is placed. During your recovery, which can take several weeks, we monitor your progress to ensure your bone is fusing properly. Once you have fully healed, we then begin the process of creating and placing your final restoration.
What are the Benefits of a Dental Implant?A dental implant for replacing your missing tooth offers several benefits.| • |
The final restoration looks exactly like your real tooth.
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It feels and functions just like a real tooth.
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Your implant is easy to take care of.
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Your new tooth is much more comfortable. The restoration is supported by the titanium post rather than your adjacent teeth.
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The post restores stimulation to the jawbone, which helps to stop bone loss and prevent any more from occurring. This helps to maintain the strength and integrity of your jaw. |
While losing a single tooth might not seem like a big deal, it can have a major impact. A single tooth implant not only restores the functions of your mouth, but it also restores your oral health and protects your jawbone, which can help to protect your other teeth from shifting out of alignment. For more information, and to find out if an implant is right for you, call Sussex Dental at (262) 246-6806 today. |
