Single Tooth Replacement
SINGLE MISSING TOOTH 
Benefits of tooth replacement on a dental implant:
When both the tooth and root are damaged, the best permanent replacement is a dental implant in conjunction with a tooth replacement crown. This solution both looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
- The dental implant is the root replacement of the tooth being replaced.
- The crown is the visible tooth replacement.
- The abutment is a connector between the crown and dental Implant. Sometimes the crown can be fastened directly to the dental implant with a small screw.
Treatment:
This procedure normally includes four visits to the dentist. You should expect to be able to work the day after having the implant placed.
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.
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1: Before the procedure, Dr. Sorensen will evaluate the site for implant care, an X-rays or Cone Beam CT my be needed to determine bone height and width. If the tooth is present Dr. Sorensen will evaluate if bone grafting is needed at the time of extraction. In some cases with front teeth, the tooth can be extracted and an immediate implant can be placed.
| 2: Placing the implant Once the implant is placed it takes about 10 week of healing before the final implant crown can be placed. In some cases a temporary tooth can be placed on the implant shortlyafter surgery. This is for aesthetic reasons only and the temporary tooth should not be used as a function tooth until the implant has fully integrated with the bone. |
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3: Attaching the new crown The final step is the placement of the permanent ceramic tooth. The new tooth is placed by your general dentist or a prosthodontist. | 4: End result You should expect the new tooth to fit and function just like a natural tooth. Good dental hygiene is critical. There will be a modification to flossing technique for the area to keep the tooth and gum healthy around the dental implant. |
ALTERNATIVES TO A DENTAL IMPLANT TOOTH REPLACEMENT
 | 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 cheap. |
 | 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. |