A single dental implant is an effective restorative dentistry method that will replace a missing tooth. It combines the strength and stability of a dental implant with the realistic, natural appearance of a dental crown. Instead of choosing a traditional dental bridge, patients can now replace a missing tooth with a more durable, long-lasting solution. Allen Dental Center can provide you with a single dental implant in Allen, TX, if you are missing one tooth.
Single Dental Implant: How Does it Work?
An implant restoration that can replace a missing tooth consists of three parts: a dental implant, an abutment, and a dental crown. A dental implant is a small titanium post that must be surgically inserted into the jawbone. Here, it will serve as the new tooth root. The implant will integrate with the surrounding bone to create a strong foundation to support the dental crown.
The abutment is simply the connector piece that will link the implant to the dental crown. We typically attach this piece once the implant is fully fused to the surrounding bone. The last part is the dental crown. We will custom-make a dental crown and secure it to the abutment or implant. The crown is designed to match the color, shape, and size of the natural teeth, restoring the appearance, functionality, and stability of the missing tooth.
How is the Dental Crown Attached to the Dental Implant?
We may use oral cement or a screw to attach the crown to your implant post. A cement-retained implant crown is a common type of implant-supported crown. This is more aesthetically pleasing than a screw-retained dental crown, so dentists typically use it to replace front teeth. Your dentist will simply bond or cement the custom crown to the abutment.
However, it can be hard to work with this type of restoration if there is ever a dental problem. Dental cement is meant to last a long time. Removing the crown for repairs will be difficult. If you ever need to do this, there is a chance you will need to replace the dental crown altogether.
Our dentist can also use a screw to secure the dental crown. A screw-retained dental crown is very easy to remove if there is ever a need. It provides better access if the crown requires maintenance or adjustments. They are also known to be more durable and offer the patient better functionality.
However, they must be placed precisely. They are also known to be less attractive than cemented crowns. For this reason, dentists typically use them to replace missing teeth in the back of the mouth.
Getting a Single Dental Implant in Allen, TX
Before implant treatment, we will ensure you have enough healthy jaw bone to support the implant post. We may recommend bone grafting if needed. Our office may also recommend other pretreatments to ensure you are in good oral health. Then, we will begin the treatment process. The steps of implant treatment include:
- Surgery: An oral surgeon will numb your mouth so you do not feel pain during treatment. Then, they will place the titanium implant post in the jaw to replace your missing tooth root. The surgeon will place a healing cap.
- Healing: Over 3 to 6 months, the jaw bone tissue will fuse to the implant post during a period of osseointegration. We will keep track of your healing. Once you heal, we will place the abutment to connect the implant post and crown. You will need more time for your gums to heal.
- Final Crown: We will finally place your permanent crown once you heal. Your final implant crown will match the color and shape of a natural tooth. We take measurements and impressions of your mouth to ensure the crown fits properly.
At first, it may feel odd to bite and chew with your new implant. However, you will get used to eating with your new restoration, and you will begin to eat foods you could not eat with your missing tooth.
Implant-Supported Crown vs. Traditional Dental Bridge
A single dental implant capped with a crown offers many benefits over a traditional bridge:
- Preserve Natural Teeth: An implant-supported crown does not rely on adjacent teeth to support the restoration. With a traditional dental bridge, the adjacent teeth must be prepared and reduced to accommodate the dental crowns that anchor the bridge. This weakens perfectly healthy teeth and makes them more susceptible to future complications. An implant crown is an independent restoration that does not require the use of surrounding teeth.
- Stability and Durability: While a traditional dental bridge is stable, a single dental implant offers better stability and durability. The implant fixture will integrate with the jawbone to create a strong foundation for the dental crown. This will allow the crown to function like a natural tooth. A dental bridge does offer this same level of stability.
- Long-Term Solution: An implant-supported crown is a long-term dental solution. If you take good care of your oral health, your dental implant can last a lifetime. This can even make it more cost-effective in the long run. In contrast, dental bridges may have a shorter lifespan and may need replacement after around 10 to 15 years.
- Preserve the Jawbone: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone resorption and preserving the facial structure. On the other hand, traditional dental bridges do not stimulate the jawbone, which can lead to bone loss over time, potentially affecting the aesthetics of the face.
Book a Consultation for a Single Dental Implant in Allen, TX
A single dental implant is the natural option for replacing a tooth. If you are interested in learning more, book a consultation at Allen Dental Center. Call 972.640.7564, or you may also request an appointment online.
Let us know if you have questions about getting dental implant treatment. We’re here to help you find the best tooth replacement option that matches your needs.
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