Missing a tooth can feel a little awkward and might even make you self-conscious about your smile. A single tooth implant is a simple solution—it’s a procedure where a new tooth is securely placed into your jawbone, giving you a natural-looking replacement and restoring your confidence. A dental implant can look and feel like your natural teeth without sacrificing the health of your neighboring teeth.
Supreme Dentistry, located in Houston, Texas, provides family and general dental services for those who want a healthy and beautiful smile. We offer several cosmetic and general dentistry services, including dental implants, cleanings, bridges, and other essential services. During your initial consultation, we will examine your teeth and discuss which options are right for you and your budget.
What Is a Single Tooth Implant?
A single tooth implant is a safe way to replace missing, cracked, or damaged teeth permanently. It involves surgically implanting a titanium or other material post into the jawbone and attaching a custom-made crown on top. It functions and looks like your normal teeth and can keep your teeth aligned and in good health. The implant can be made from titanium, zirconia, ceramics, gold, stainless steel, and biodegradable polymers.
A single tooth implant is necessary when your remaining teeth are at risk of becoming misaligned. The implant will preserve the adjacent teeth, help prevent bone loss in the jaw, and feel and function like a real tooth. It’s a long-lasting and durable option and can last up to 10 to 15 years or over your lifetime.
The cost of a single tooth implant can range from $3,000 to $6,000. The cost depends on several factors, such as additional procedures, materials used, and the dentist’s expertise in single tooth implants.
Single Tooth Implant Procedure
In general, a single tooth implant timeline can take anywhere from six to nine months to complete. This allows the gum line to heal properly and ensures the fit is secure. Here is a breakdown of a single tooth implant timeline:
Consultation and Tooth Extraction
On your first visit, you’ll have an initial consultation that includes a dental exam, X-rays, or a CT scan. A treatment plan will also be created. If the damaged tooth is still attached, a separate appointment will be scheduled for its removal. Healing time after extraction typically takes one to two weeks.
Bone Grafting
If there isn’t enough bone for the implant, a bone graft will be necessary. This step can significantly extend the timeline, as the healing process takes about three to six months.
Implant Placement
The implant placement procedure usually takes one to two hours. Patients are placed under anesthesia while the gum is cut, and the implant is drilled into the jawbone.
Bone Fusion (Osseointegration)
After the implant is placed, the bone will naturally fuse around it to create a strong foundation. This process, called osseointegration, requires about three to six months for full healing.
Abutment Placement
The abutment is placed in a one-day procedure, which may involve minor surgery. Healing time after this step is typically one to two weeks.
Crown Placement
Once the gum around the abutment has healed, a custom crown is placed on top of the implant. The crown is either cemented or screwed into place, completing the process.
The total timeline with no grafting and fast healing is three to five months. Bone grafting can extend the timeline to six to 12 months.
Single Tooth Dentures vs. Implants
If you are missing a tooth and deciding between dentures vs. implants, there are some pros and cons of each.
Single Tooth Dentures
- Pros – Single-tooth dentures are generally less expensive than implants. They are removable and can be fitted relatively quickly. This fast option can restore your smile and allow you to chew normally.
- Cons – They are removable, whereas implants are permanent. They are not as stable as implants, and over time, they may need replacing.
Dental Implants
- Pros – Implants are fused to the jawbone and provide a permanent, natural-looking tooth. It has a more natural feel and can boost your confidence in eating, speaking, and smiling. Implants can prevent bone loss and is an easy and safe procedure.
- Cons – Implants are a surgical procedure, so you will need to be on anesthesia. They are more expensive than dentures and they require a longer time to heal.
If you are considering single tooth dentures vs. implants and want a permanent solution, single tooth implants are the way to go.
What Are the Alternatives to Single Tooth Implant?
There are multiple alternatives to single tooth implants that you should consider before making a decision. These include:
- Dental bridges – These include traditional dental bridges, resin-bonded bridges or Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridges.
- Removable partial dentures – This is a removable option that can replace a single tooth and is held in place by attaching it to the surrounding teeth.
- Flipper dentures – This alternative is used as a temporary denture to fill gaps in teeth. It’s very quick and affordable.
Other alternatives include root canal therapy, telescopic crowns, and partial dentures with locking mechanisms.
Get in Touch with Supreme Dentistry for Outstanding Dental Care Today
If you are searching for dental implants in Houston, look no further than Supreme Dentistry. We are a full-service dental office that offers general and family dentistry services, including cosmetic dentistry services. Our team will evaluate your teeth and talk about the different options for a single tooth implant, dentures, or other options. Call 844.966.2333 today or contact us online for more information about our single tooth implant services.
