How do dental implants compare to other dental restoration options?

Unlike other restorations, dental implants are anchored within the jawbone to replace tooth structures above and below the gum line. As such, dental bridges and dentures can’t prevent jawbone degradation like implant posts. You’ll also enjoy the benefits of a natural tooth with implants, never having to worry about special maintenance.

Can implants be used for dentures?

Implants can help patients missing all of their natural teeth in the lower or upper jaws who have difficulty wearing a traditional denture. Our implant dentist can provide implant-supported dentures that won’t need removal for maintenance, mealtimes, or overnight. This denture appliance won’t slip or slide as you speak and chew for a comfortable fit.

Does dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?

Some insurance companies may cover a portion of your dental implant treatment cost. We recommend contacting your provider to better understand your plan’s benefits. We’re proud to offer an in-house dental savings plan to help patients receive the dental care they need without breaking the bank. Call our Willoughby Hills office at (440) 210-0999 to learn more.

Who’s not a good candidate for dental implants?

While most patients are good candidates for dental implants, Dr. Wallace may recommend a supplemental procedure for patients who: Grind or clench their teeth (bruxism). Have pre-existing conditions such as gum disease, diabetes, cancer, or alcoholism. Lack sufficient jawbone density. Use tobacco products. Take medications such as steroids or immune system suppressants.

Single Tooth Implants in Willoughby Hills, OH

A Simple Solution for a Complete Smile

Losing a single tooth can be frustrating, but our experienced Willoughby Hills, OH dentist, Dr. Phillip Wallace offers single tooth implants as a way to fix the problem. These implants look and feel like natural teeth, making them a great choice for restoring your smile and improving your bite. If you’re missing a tooth and want an easy, effective solution, learning about single tooth implants can help you make the right choice for your dental health.

If you’re missing a tooth and are in need of a restoration, contact our Willoughby Hills dental office today by calling (440) 210-0999.

What Is a Single-Tooth Dental Implant?

A single-tooth dental implant consists of a metal post being surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. The post acts as a tooth root and provides a stable long-term solution to tooth loss.

Once the implant has fully integrated into the jawbone, an abutment (a small connector piece) is attached to the implant. This abutment is the base for the replacement tooth, which is usually a dental crown (a custom-made, tooth-shaped cap). The dental crown will match the color and shape of the surrounding teeth and is cemented or screwed onto the abutment.

With proper care and regular dental visits, single-tooth dental implants can last a lifetime and provide a natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Compared to other tooth replacement options, single dental implants offer improved oral health and long-term stability and are a popular choice for patients with one missing tooth, as they avoid the need for tooth extraction or altering healthy nearby teeth.

Benefits Of Single-Tooth Implants

Single-tooth implants offer several benefits over other tooth replacements, such as dentures and dental bridges. Benefits include:

Natural-looking appearance: Single implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, restoring your smile and confidence.
Improved chewing and speech: With a single tooth implant, you can chew and speak more effectively, improving your overall quality of life and avoiding social embarrassment.
Preservation of adjacent teeth: Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, dental implants don’t require the reduction of healthy adjacent teeth, which helps maintain the integrity of your remaining teeth.
Long-lasting and durable: With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a great investment for your oral health.
Improved oral health: Dental implants help preserve the jawbone and prevent further bone loss, which can occur after losing a tooth. They also make it easier to maintain good dental health, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Convenience and comfort: Single-tooth implants are comfortable and convenient, eliminating the need for messy adhesives and uncomfortable dentures.
Improved overall health: Missing teeth can cause a variety of health issues, including jawbone deterioration and an increased risk of gum disease. They can help prevent these issues and improve your overall health.

Single-Tooth Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure typically requires two or three appointments over several months. During the first appointment, our Willoughby Hills dentist will assess your oral health and plan the placement of the implant. During the second appointment, the implant gets placed in the jawbone, and a temporary crown will be placed over the implant. Once the jawbone and the implant fuse, the final porcelain crown will be attached and you’ll have a brand-new, beautiful smile.

Candidates for Single-Tooth Implants

Ideal candidates for single-tooth implants include:

Patients with a single missing tooth or several missing teeth in different locations
Patients with good oral hygiene and a commitment to maintaining it
Patients with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant
Patients without any medical conditions that may affect the healing process

For those suffering from sufficient density, there are supplemental procedures available to prepare your mouth for dental implants. Procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift may be recommended. Contact Dr. Wallace to learn more about dental implants and if you’re a good candidate.

Other Dental Implant Treatments

For those with multiple missing teeth, dental implants can still be a great option. With various dental implant treatments available, our dentist will work with you to determine what works best. From implant-supported dentures to an implant-supported bridge, you can say goodbye to a gapped smile and hello to a full, beautiful smile.

What Is the Cost of a Single Tooth Dental Implant?

The cost of a single-tooth dental implant can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the location of the dental clinic, and the materials used. On average, single dental implants cost between $1,000 to $3,000.

In most cases, insurance will cover a portion of the dental implant cost. Some practices also offer financing options to ensure you get the care you need regardless of expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

The length of time for receiving a single-tooth implant can vary, but it typically takes three to six months from start to finish. Each patient’s case will differ, but your dentist will provide you with a detailed timeline for implant placement.

Yes, single-tooth implants can be used for front teeth in the upper jaw. They provide patients with a natural-looking tooth replacement that can last them a lifetime.

Yes, single-tooth dental implants will feel and function like your natural teeth. They’re made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth and are securely anchored in your jawbone, allowing for normal biting and chewing abilities.

A single dental implant usually causes less discomfort than a surgical operation involving multiple implants. Patients usually experience minor discomfort and swelling for a few days after their surgical implant placement. Any pain around the implant site can be managed through cold compresses and over-the-counter medications.

Choose Single Tooth Implants for Your Smile

Single tooth implants are a practical and long-lasting way to replace a missing tooth. They not only improve your appearance but also help maintain your oral health. If you have a missing tooth, schedule a consultation at our Willoughby Hills, OH dental office by calling (440) 210-0999 to discuss if single tooth implants are the next step to get your smile back on track.