Single Tooth Replacement

SINGLE TOOTH MISSING

When both the tooth and root are damaged, the best permanent replacement is a dental implant. This solution both looks and functions just like a natural tooth

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COURSE OF TREATMENT

INSTALLING THE NEW TOOTH – STEP-BY-STEP

The course of treatment described here is one of several options available. Consult your dentist to find out what the best solution is for you, given your specific condition.


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. At this time, a temporary tooth is provided that allows you eat and function like normal almost immediately. The implant will need a few months to integrate with the jawbone before the next step is taken.


3: Attaching the new crown The final step is the placement of the permanent ceramic tooth. The new tooth is installed for life. No additional treatment is needed.		4: End result You should expect the new tooth to fit and function just like a natural tooth. Do your usual dental hygiene to keep the tooth and gum around it clean and healthy.

ALTERNATIVES TO AN IMPLANT

	Tooth-supported fixed bridge A traditional bridge involves grinding down adjacent teeth to support the bridge. It is a stable solution with good esthetics and function that is fairly easy to install. However, this alternative has two main disadvantages: continuous bone resorbtion in the edentulous area, and sacrificing healthy teeth on behalf of the bridge.
	Removable partial denture This is not a permanent alternative to a lost tooth. It is unstable and loosely attached, which affects both function and comfort. A removable partial denture is made of plastic – a material that can't create the same esthetic result as a ceramic crown. The benefits are few but do exist: adjacent teeth aren't affected. It is easily and quickly installed and relatively inexpensive.
	Resin-bonded bridge This alternative has some clear advantages: it is quickly installed, functions well and, since it is made of ceramic, it gives a high esthetic result. Moreover, natural healthy teeth aren't affected. But it is not very permanent. The resin-bonded bridge will eventually come off – probably after just a couple of years – and will then have to be reinstalled.