What is a single tooth implant and how does it differ from other types of tooth replacements?
Single tooth implants, as the name suggests, are implants that replace just one tooth. The question is, why would you need that? Well, sometimes teeth go missing because they break—many times back teeth with a lot of force can crack, leading to tooth loss. Sometimes a front tooth can be lost due to trauma. Dental implants can be a great way to replace that one missing tooth. The advantage here is that we don't necessarily have to drill the teeth on either side, making it a much more conservative approach to replacing that one tooth.
Can you explain to me the full tooth implant process from the initial consultation to the placement?
If you're missing a front tooth or are going to lose one, sometimes you come in with a broken tooth that we know we can't save. The process is to either extract that tooth or evaluate the missing area to see if you have enough bone to place an implant. Typically, we'll do that by getting a CBCT, a cone beam CT scan, which allows us to examine the three-dimensional aspects of that missing tooth area. Then we can see if there is enough bone to place an implant. If not, we may need to perform procedures such as bone grafting to increase the bone volume for implant placement. Once we confirm you have enough bone, we'll also get an intraoral scan of your teeth, like a digital impression, instead of using the goopy stuff. With that information, I can plan exactly where to place the implant to efficiently restore that missing tooth for you.
What does the tooth implant procedure typically involve and how long does it actually take?
Replacing a missing tooth and the time frame for that process is pretty straightforward. If we're able to place the implant into your existing bone, the procedure typically takes about an hour. We'll allow anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months for the dental implant to integrate into the bone. Once that occurs, we'll make an impression using our digital scanners to get an impression of that implant, so we can fabricate a post and a crown that goes onto that post in your mouth. That typically takes another 3 weeks. So, the entire process could range from two to three months, from start to finish, to give you that tooth. There are opportunities where we can place a restoration at the same time as placing the implant. Typically, that's just a temporary restoration. If you need something that provides aesthetics right away, that can be done as long as we have a good, firm bone for the implant.
What is a bone graft for a tooth implant and when may it be necessary?
Bone grafts prior to dental implant placement may be indicated if the area where we want to place the implant lacks adequate bone volume. Typically, we make an incision into the gum line to expose the bone defect. There are different methods for collecting bone grafts, either from you or a donor, which can be placed into that defect. Many times, we place a small covering—a collagen material—over the graft to help hold it in place. It takes about four months for the bone graft to heal. Once healed, the graft is replaced by your own bone. We'll then get a new CT scan to measure how much bone is available for placing the dental implant to replace your missing tooth.
How does a single tooth implant compare to, say, a bridge or a denture for just a single tooth replacement?
When replacing a single tooth, there are options: implant, bridge, or removable appliance, like a retainer with a tooth on it. Each has advantages and disadvantages. The dental implant is probably the most conservative and comfortable approach since we don't have to alter the teeth on either side. This allows for more life out of those teeth. If there's not enough bone to place an implant and grafting isn't indicated, different types of bridges can be done, but many times they require preparation on the adjacent teeth. Removing tooth structure can weaken the tooth, so we avoid it if possible. A removable denture-type prosthesis can aesthetically replace the tooth, but often includes plastic that covers the palate or teeth, making it less functional. If you're replacing a front tooth and want to bite into an apple, a removable appliance might not work well.
In terms of what patients should expect for healing after receiving an implant tooth, can you walk through the process of healing?
Healing after a dental implant is placed goes fairly quickly. We aim for a healthy patient and site with adequate bone for implant placement, giving the best opportunity for healing. Discomfort is minimal; usually, Tylenol or ibuprofen is sufficient for pain management. With minimal incisions and minimally invasive procedures, healing is typically uneventful. On a pain scale, if a tooth extraction is at a 10, an implant placement is usually around a 3. The discomfort afterward is quite minimal.
How can I find out if I am a good candidate for a single tooth implant?
To determine if you're a good candidate for dental implants, you need a full dental exam. If it's a single tooth implant, we also want to ensure the rest of your teeth are healthy. We don't want to fix one tooth while others have issues. A full exam of your teeth is necessary. We need an X-ray of the area, usually a three-dimensional CBCT scan, to ensure you have adequate bone for the implant. If you're healthy and have adequate bone, you're likely a good candidate for a dental implant.
I hope we were able to answer some of your questions regarding single tooth implants and how they can best help you with your oral health. If you have any other questions, give us a call at Implant Dentistry Northwest here in Tacoma, Washington. We'll be very happy to help you with all your dental issues. Thank you.