With a dental implant, you can restore the functionality of a lost tooth. At Lovett Dental Pearland, we offer affordable dental implant services for a single tooth or multiple teeth. A single tooth implant also prevents bone loss for improved dental health.
What Is a Single Tooth Implant?
This is the simplest of the dental implant options available in our office. If you lose a tooth, your dentist might suggest getting a tooth implant with a dental crown instead of a bridge, which doesn’t require a post in your jawbone. However, an implant can prevent further bone loss and secure surrounding teeth in place.
If you lose a tooth near the front of your mouth, you may worry about the impact on your appearance. A single tooth implant can give you a more natural smile than simply adding a bridge. During your consultation with an experienced dentist, you may also discuss using a single implant as part of your cosmetic dentistry goals.
Parts of a Single Tooth Implant
A single tooth implant consists of three parts:
- Implant – At first glance, a titanium implant resembles a screw. Your dentist installs the screw into your jawbone, and it gradually fuses with the bone. This forms a support for the other two pieces of the implant.
- Abutment – This piece connects the implant to the crown, which replaces your natural tooth.
- Dental crown – A dental crown can improve your smile. It’s the part of the implant other people can see. Our Lovett Dental Pearland team has many years of experience and takes the time to match the shape, size, and color to match the surrounding teeth.
Many people choose a single tooth implant because it strengthens your teeth. You regain the functionality and look of the natural tooth you lost. When you get a bridge to cover the gap left by a lost tooth, it relies on the teeth surrounding the gap. However, dental implants stand on their own, and they are designed to last forever.
Should You Choose an Implant or a Bridge?
Ultimately, this is a personal choice. Dental implants are a bit more expensive than bridges, but single tooth implants stand on their own and do not affect other teeth. With the dental bridge, you’ll need to replace the bridge if you lose or damage one of the surrounding teeth.
Because a single dental implant embeds directly in your jawbone, your cosmetic dentist can create a very precise fit. A dental implant improves the functionality of the tooth and the overall look of your teeth.
Single Tooth Implant Procedure
Before installing an implant, your dentist figures out the dimensions of the surrounding area. Using a CBCT Scan, we can match the surrounding teeth for unique, natural results. During the procedure, your dentist may adjust the crown for a better fit.
In some instances, we can do a same-day installation of the implant and crown. Ask if this is a good option for you. Otherwise, the process may take place over more than one appointment.
Healing time varies depending on the quality of the bone in the impacted area. We recommend installing the single tooth implant as soon as possible after you lose a tooth. Otherwise, you can experience bone loss in the area, making it more difficult to place the implant and resulting in longer healing times.
What Are the Benefits of a Tooth Implant?
Benefits of a single tooth implant include:
- Improves bite quality with even pressure
- Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting or falling out
- Facilitates chewing and speaking
- Gives you the confidence to smile widely
Consider a Single Tooth Implant from Lovett Dental Pearland
A single tooth implant can help you regain the functionality of a lost tooth. If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to a dental bridge that relies on your remaining teeth, come in for a free consultation. Contact Lovett Dental Pearland at 281-416-5844 to discuss your family’s cosmetic and general dentistry needs.
