Single-Tooth Dental Implants in Sierra Vista, AZ

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), an artificial tooth designed to match the surrounding teeth. The dental crown, functioning as an artificial tooth, 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 your own teeth, restoring your smile and confidence. They mimic the appearance and function of a natural tooth, ensuring that your smile looks as natural as possible.
• 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 in Sierra Vista

The dental implant procedure at Gentle Care Dentistry and Implants typically requires two or three appointments over several months. During the first appointment, your oral surgeon or implant dentist will assess your oral health and plan the placement of the implant, highlighting their expertise in the process.

During the second appointment, our Sierra Vista dentist places the implant in the jawbone, and a temporary crown will be placed over it. Once the jawbone and the implant fuse, the final porcelain crown will be attached and you’ll have a beautiful, brand-new smile.

Candidates for Single-Tooth Implants

Ideal candidates for dental implants, specifically single-tooth implants, are determined by several critical criteria:

• Patients with a single missing tooth or several missing teeth in different locations
• Patients who maintain good oral hygiene and are committed to continuing such practices
• Individuals with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant, a key factor in the success of dental implants
• Patients without any medical conditions that may negatively impact the healing process

For those lacking the necessary jawbone density, supplemental procedures such as bone grafting are available to prepare your mouth for dental implants. Bone grafting can help patients whose jawbone is not sturdy enough to support an implant, involving the addition of bone from another source or using synthetic materials to strengthen the jawbone. This process can take several months to heal before the implant can be placed. Contact our Sierra Vista dentist to learn more about supplemental procedures and to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants.

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 dental implants for a single tooth 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.

Insurance carriers typically cover less than 10 percent of the fees for dental implants. 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

How long does it take to get a single-tooth implant?

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.

Can single-tooth implants be used for front teeth?

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.

Will single-tooth dental implants feel and function like my natural teeth?

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. The new tooth, attached to the implant, not only mimics the appearance and function of your natural teeth but also plays a crucial role in restoring your confidence in chewing and speaking.

Is a single tooth implant painful?

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.

Schedule Your Single-Tooth Dental Implant Consultation at Gentle Care Dentistry and Implants

If you’re considering a single-tooth dental implant surgery, consult our licensed dentist in Sierra Vista, AZ, to determine if you’re a candidate. At Gentle Care Dentistry and Implants, Dr. Kent Hales offers single-tooth dental implants. We’ll be happy to meet with you to discuss your smile goals to see if we can help you achieve them. 

Contact our Sierra Vista, AZ, implant dentist at (520) 458-9460 to schedule your appointment today.

BEFORE AND AFTER GALLERY