The Prodigal
Tooth: Single Tooth Dental Implants
Some dental patients may be nervous with
the idea of Dental Implants . They have often bought into stereotypes about the
procedure, thinking it is only for cosmetic purposes, is a last resort, or is
for people with chronic problems. Did you know, however, you can receive a
dental implant for a single missing tooth? Here are the ways you can benefit
from single implants.
When are Single
Implants Needed?
A missing tooth does not necessarily mean
you need or want a dental implant. A tooth in the back of your mouth with a
small chip or crack probably doesn't warrant one right away, and if the missing
tooth isn’t obvious, you may forego an implant. However, you should consider a
single implant in a few circumstances:
- It’s obvious
the tooth is missing (for example, it’s a front tooth).
- You find
yourself hiding your teeth or mouth.
- The area
around the missing tooth is inflamed or has signs of decay.
- Your other
teeth aren't functioning effectively without the missing tooth.
- Because of
the missing tooth, your other teeth have begun crowding or overlapping.
How Can Implants
Help?
The benefits of dental implants, including
singles, are abundant. First, there’s usually a social advantage. People are
naturally self-conscious about their appearances – especially any flaws in the
face, eyes, or mouth. Those of us with missing teeth know what it’s like to
smile with your mouth closed or to put hands over your face so others won’t
comment on a missing tooth. Dental implants eliminate that worry.
On a more practical level, dental implants
(even for one tooth) mean a healthier mouth. People with missing teeth often
report an increase in decay or sensitivity, especially as the teeth age.
Missing teeth can also make eating and talking painful and awkward. At Solace
Surgery, we install immediately functioning teeth so you can enjoy a complete
mouth and its benefits right after surgery.
How Does the
Implant Work?
We provide several options for the type of
implant, but we do similar procedures for each. Solace Oral Surgery offers
traditional fully ceramic implants. We offer another option to dentures and restore your smile with modern dental technology. Dental implants act like a normal tooth and are made with biocompatible materials. They maintain natural bone and implants will normally last a lifetime. Talk to Dr. Jaime A. Romero about your options.
After your initial exams, the dentist will
provide a temporary tooth or bridge. This allows you to function normally while
your mouth and jaw get used to the new tooth. After the adjustment period, your oral surgeon will put in the permanent implant. Call for a consultation appointment
today.
