Single tooth implants are the best method of smile restoration when a patient has lost a tooth. Those who have lost teeth from old age, advanced periodontitis, tooth decay or even physical trauma are excellent candidates for single tooth implant surgery. Although this procedure is straightforward, there is still mystery surrounding what exactly a tooth implant is and how it works. Read on to discover what a single tooth implant can do for you.
A single tooth implant, also known as a dental implant, is a tooth sized, tooth-shaped device used to replace a single missing tooth. To better understand exactly what a single tooth implant is, it is helpful to know what makes up a tooth implant. Implants have three separate parts: the post, the abutment and the restoration.
Essentially, the post is a titanium, screw-like rod that is inserted directly into the jawbone. This is the portion of the implant that acts as artificial tooth roots, anchored in the jawbone and supporting the rest of the implant. The post is located below the gum line and is only visible with the help of an X-ray.
In a single tooth implant procedure, the post is surgically inserted into the jawbone. There, it fuses with the bone in a period of months, a process known as osseointegration. After this, the post is a permanent fixture of the mouth and can bear weight just like natural tooth roots. The post is the reason that single tooth implants are the most functional option for tooth replacement.
This peg-like structure lies just above the post, right at the gumline. The abutment serves as a connector between the post and the restoration. An advantage to single tooth implants is the fact that they are comprised of these three different parts, so if one fails, the other parts are still intact and only one part needs to be replaced. The abutment is the important piece that makes this possible.
The restoration refers to the visible portion of any single tooth implant, usually a crown. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are used to both restore a natural tooth and top a single tooth implant. Ceramic crowns are traditionally used, as these are the most lifelike.
Crowns, although strong and durable, are the most likely to fail out of the three parts of a tooth implant. This is due to the fact that crowns are most often exposed to pressure and damage. When properly cared for, a ceramic crown is built to last for about 10 years before needing replacement.
Single tooth implants are the best method of tooth replacement. To get the completed, beautiful smile you have been dreaming of, give our office a call to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://atlantapamperedsmiles.com or call Pampered Smiles at (404) 891-9489 for an appointment in our Atlanta office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Tooth extractions are common dental procedures performed by general dentists. They can be a result of decay, disease, or a fracture. While the dentist may introduce it to preserve oral health, it is important to know what to expect during and after the operation.There are two types of tooth extractions, namely simple and surgical. Most…
Implant dentists restore the appearance, function, and oral health of patients' smiles by replacing missing teeth. What makes implant dentistry unique is the use of dental implants, which are essentially artificial tooth roots that hold replacement teeth securely in the proper permanent position.Many have heard of implant dentistry but are not entirely familiar with what…
A tooth extraction can improve your dental health. The dentist can assess the tooth and see if it is still repairable. If not, then the dentist will remove it. Knowing more about tooth removal can help you prepare for the procedure. Here are some tooth extraction questions you can ask your general dentist on consultation…
Worried about tooth extractions? Read on to learn more about this procedure and its aftermath. A tooth extraction is sometimes necessary for oral health but it can change your smile significantly. Beyond the immediate relief from pain or infection, the absence of a tooth leads to new considerations regarding dental aesthetics and function.If a tooth…
Tooth extractions are common dental procedures performed by general dentists. They can be a result of decay, disease, or a fracture. While the dentist may introduce it to preserve oral health, it is important to know what to expect during and after the operation.There are two types of tooth extractions, namely simple and surgical. Most…
Implant dentists restore the appearance, function, and oral health of patients' smiles by replacing missing teeth. What makes implant dentistry unique is the use of dental implants, which are essentially artificial tooth roots that hold replacement teeth securely in the proper permanent position.Many have heard of implant dentistry but are not entirely familiar with what…