Single Tooth Replacement
SINGLE TOOTH MISSING
When both the tooth and root are damaged, the best permanent replacement is often a dental implant in conjunction with a tooth-colored crown. This solution both looks and functions much like a natural tooth.
A number of factors are involved in selecting the best of several possible strategies for placing the implant and crown. The result, however, is the same: a naturally functioning tooth replacement with life-like aesthetics and potentially life-long durability.
COURSE OF TREATMENT
INSTALLING THE NEW IMPLANT & CROWN – STEP-BY-STEP
The following course of treatment demonstrates fundamental steps involved in any of the several strategies for implant supported crown restoration.
 |
 |
1: Before the procedure
Exam, x-rays, and consultations (with the surgeon and the patient) take place to evaluate suitability and to select the best strategy for achieving a properly integrated implant supported crown. |
2: Installing the implant
The implant is installed. At this time, a temporary tooth is provided that allows you eat and function like normal almost immediately. Over the next several months, the implant integrate swith the jawbone (osseointegration). |
 |
 |
3: Attaching the new crown
The final step is the placement of the permanent crown. The implant/crown typically serve as a life-long solution. |
4: End result
You should expect the new crown to fit and function just like a natural tooth. Good dental hygiene is important to keep the adjacent teeth and gums clean. |
ALTERNATIVES TO AN IMPLANT SUPPORTED CROWN
 |
Tooth-supported fixed bridge
A traditional bridge involves grinding down adjacent teeth to support the bridge. It is a stable solution with good esthetics and function that is fairly easy to install. However, this alternative has two main disadvantages: continuous bone resorbtion in the area of the lost tooth, and sacrificing healthy teeth on behalf of the bridge. |
 |
Removable partial denture
This is not a permanent alternative to a lost tooth. It is less stable, which affects both function and comfort. A removable partial denture is made of plastic – a material that can't create the same esthetic result as a tooth-colored crown. The chief benefit of this restorative option is its lower cost. |
 |
Resin-bonded bridge
This alternative has some clear advantages: it is quickly installed, functions well and, since it is made of ceramic, it gives a high esthetic result. Moreover, natural healthy teeth aren't affected. But it is not very permanent. The resin-bonded bridge will eventually come off – probably after just a couple of years – and will then have to be reinstalled, or replaced with a more permanent solution. |