By age 44, 69% of adults are missing at least one tooth. A missing tooth brings with it plenty of health complications. You may have trouble chewing, experience tooth shifting, or suffer from gum disease. Meanwhile, without stimulation the jawbone can atrophy, weaken, and shrink. Worst of all, those with missing teeth may go to extreme ends to hide their happy smile. But there is hope for those with a missing tooth: a single dental implant.
What is a Single Dental Implant?
A single dental implant is a permanent fixture replacing one to two missing teeth in a patient’s upper or lower jaw. A dental implant is the most popular missing tooth replacement available. It uses a titanium screw to replace the missing tooth root. Then, the jawbone fuses with the implant, giving it stability and longevity. Finally, a customized crown is created. This crown is placed over the implant, giving it its natural look and feel. The process takes about four to six months; however, nearly all patients say the wait is worth the beautiful results.
The Benefits of a Dental Implant
A single dental implant is the most conventional treatment available and has a success rate of 90% to 95%. But what other benefits are there to a single dental implant treatment?
- A dental implant restores the aesthetics of a missing tooth and its functionality. Patients can eat, speak, and smile without pain.
- Because the implant fuses to the jawbone, the jawbone is stimulated and strengthened.
- The ceramic crown is customized to blend in with a patient’s existing teeth. It even reflects light in a similar way enamel does.
- Dental implants can last 25 years if well taken care of. Make sure you are brushing and flossing it like you would your natural teeth.
Am I Qualified for a Single Dental Implant?
Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. Some factors that are considered are your overall oral health, how much support your jawbone provides, how many missing teeth you have, and how well you keep up your daily oral hygiene. Patients with diabetes or severe bleeding diseases may also not be strong candidates for a dental implant.
Supplemental procedures are available in some cases. Bone grafts and sinus lifts help strengthen the jawbone and improve the likelihood of implant success. During a consultation with your dentist, they will help you determine whether a single dental implant is best for you.
A Single Dental Implant vs. Full-Arch Implants
Full-arch implants differ from single dental implants in that they are a series of implants replacing an entire arch of missing teeth on either the top or the bottom jaw. These are recommended when patients are missing multiple teeth in a row or decay has damaged most of their teeth. Full arch implants help restore your entire smile.
These implants can also be removable depending on the patient and their needs. Fixed full-arch implants require six to eight implants. Removable full-arch implants require four to six implants.
DICE Dental Can Help
Whether you need a single dental implant or a full-arch set of implants, DICE Dental has an expert team who can help. During a free consultation, we will take x-rays and walk you through the treatment options best for you. A single dental implant starts at only $850.
And we don’t just offer dental implant services. Springfield residents in need of dentures, extractions, and dental crowns can also find them here at DICE. We also have locations in Southampton and Bethlehem. With an expert team, advanced technology, and affordable prices, we look forward to helping you smile again. Schedule an appointment today!