Replace a missing tooth with a single dental implant
From knocks and bumps to decay and old age, there are plenty of reasons why you may be missing a tooth. Whatever the reason, a single dental implant could be the solution to giving you your smile back.
A missing tooth can lead to a major loss of confidence – especially if the gap is on show. A single dental implant could can restore function and improve appearance and is a fantastic option for filling the gap with a natural looking replacement.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small, bio-safe post inserted into your jaw to act in the same way as the root of a tooth. The post fuses with your bone and is used to permanently attach a brand new replacement tooth.
How do I know if a dental implant will be suitable for me?
Dental implants work well for the majority of patients with missing teeth. Your dentist will carry out a thorough consultation and take a scan of your jaw to determine whether it is an option for you. They will then talk you through the dental implant process in detail.
What are the advantages of a single-tooth implant over a bridge?
In the past, a bridge, which is held into place by the surrounding teeth, would have been the only option to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant, which does not rely on neighbouring teeth, offers several benefits over a traditional bridge:
- It looks just like a natural tooth
- Unlike a bridge, a single implant doesn’t affect neighbouring teeth
- Your implant will integrate into your jawbone preventing loss of bone density
- Long term, a single implant can be easier to maintain
- Your gums can recede around a bridge, making it visible when you smile
- It is possible for bacteria to build up around a bridge
What happens during a dental implant procedure?
The implant resembles a small screw fitted into your jaw. Once in place, it takes around three to six months until the implant and your bone fuse together to form a permenent anchor for your new tooth.
While you are waiting for your implant to completely heal, your dentist may fit a temporary tooth, before a customised crown is permanently fitted on top of the implant. Once your single tooth implant is in place, you will have a natural-looking and fully-functional replacement tooth to give you a gap-free smile.
How do I look after my single dental implant?
You may find that the area around your implant is tender immediately after your procedure, but once that discomfort passes, you can brush and floss your teeth as usual to keep your whole mouth clean and bacteria-free. With proper care, your new tooth should last you a lifetime. You’ll find our implants look so natural that you can almost forget you ever lost a tooth!
Call on 0800 849 4959 to find out how our team can help you improve your smile.
