single tooth implant Losing a tooth either by accident, trauma or sports can be devastating. It leaves a visible gap in your mouth that can cause insecurities and loss of self-confidence. The good news is that single-tooth implants are now affordable and can offer a lasting solution for lost teeth. At Columbia Implant Center, we offer solutions for patients that need single tooth implant procedures to revive that smile again.What is a Single Tooth Implant?A single-tooth implant is a dental replacement procedure that restores a missing tooth with an artificial tooth root and a custom-made dental crown. The process involves surgically placing a titanium implant into the jawbone, which serves as a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. The implant is designed to replicate the neighboring teeth. The titanium base implant is inserted and eventually integrates with the jawbone, making it permanently attached, thus reducing the likelihood of movement. The Components of a Single Tooth ImplantA single tooth implant consists of three components: the implant which is made of titanium and is shaped like a screw, the abutment that will be attached to the implant (and also made from titanium), and the crown that replicates your neighboring teeth and made of high-quality materials - usually porcelain. The Implant ProcessThe dental implant process begins with a thorough examination and treatment planning. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Over several months, the implant integrates with the bone. Once the implant has successfully bonded with the bone, an abutment piece is attached to the implant, which serves as a connector between the implant and the dental crown. Lastly, a custom-made dental crown, designed to match the surrounding teeth, is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration. The result is a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth that can last for many years with proper care. Who Qualifies for a Single Tooth Implant?Having overall good oral health qualifies you as a candidate. Good oral health includes healthy gums, enough jawbone to hold the implant, and good and consistent oral hygiene habits. Why Should I Get an Implant?There are several reasons why getting an implant is important. You are able to easily chew food and prevent the drifting of the remaining teeth to cause misalignment. Tooth implants also prevent bone loss and minimize the likelihood of having periodontitis. How Long Does the Procedure Take?The duration of a dental implant procedure can vary depending on individual factors such as the number of implants needed, the condition of the jawbone, and any additional treatments required. In general, the entire process can take several months to complete. The initial surgical placement of the implant typically takes about one to two hours per implant. Afterward, a healing period of several months is necessary to allow the fusion of the implant with the jawbone. Once the implant has integrated successfully, the final step of placing the abutment and dental crown usually takes a few weeks. Schedule an appointment with our dental implant specialist at Columbia Implant Center to be evaluated for the procedure. Call us at (860) 743-1898 for more information. |
