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Single Tooth Implant for a Missing Tooth

While tooth loss is a major dental problem, most people do not bother replacing a single missing tooth. This is especially the case when the tooth is not visible - and thus cannot affect smiling. However, while missing a single tooth might not do much to your appearance, the invisible damage it can cause can be extensive. This is why we, at Periodontal Associates, are committed to helping you replace your tooth with a single tooth implant.

How Does a Single Tooth Implant Work?

A single tooth dental implant is used to replace a single tooth that has been lost due to various reasons - from tooth decay to tooth damage due to traumatic dental injury. The implant is comprised of three parts:

•	The metal post/frame made of titanium, which acts as the artificial root of the prosthetic tooth.
•	A prosthetic crown. These are custom made to look and feel like your natural tooth crown.
•	An abutment. This is a screw-like metal, which connects the prosthetic crown to the metal post, thus providing a more secure fit.

The implant completely replaces the lost tooth - both in appearance and functionality.

The Single Tooth Implant Process

The procedure of a single tooth implant involves surgically placing the implant (metal frame) into the jawbone. The surgery is carried out in a single session and under anesthesia. Once the implant has been placed, the surgical site is closed up, and it is given time to heal before placing the dental crown. During this healing period, the jawbone grows into the implant, forming a strong support system for the tooth. The dental crown is then fitted, completing the implant placement procedure.

The single tooth implant procedure can also involve a same-day implant - depending on the preference and the dental health of the patient. With this option, the dental crown is placed on the same day as the implant (metal post) thus eliminating the waiting period.

Benefits of a Single Tooth Implant

A single tooth dental implant offers several benefits:

•	Restoring full oral functionality. While a single missing tooth might not seem like a huge deal, it can greatly affect various oral functions such as chewing and talking. A single implant thus helps to replace full functionality.
•	Restoring appearance and smile. A missing visible tooth can greatly affect your appearance and smile. A single implant helps to give you back a perfect appearance, thus allowing you to smile with confidence.
•	Preventing damage to the remaining teeth. Losing a single tooth creates space in your jawbone and removes some support structure of the adjacent teeth. As a result, these teeth start to shift towards the missing space, which can lead to dental problems such as gapped teeth. The shifting of the remaining teeth can also place undue stress on both the teeth and the gum tissue, leading to extensive damage.
•	Prevents the deterioration of the jawbone. A missing tooth also leaves a socket, or a hole, in the jawbone, which might fail to heal properly. As a result, the jawbone can start to deteriorate through bone loss, which can eventually lead to multiple tooth loss.

Replace Your Tooth Today

Even though a single missing tooth can appear unimportant, it can lead to extensive damage to your teeth. It is thus important to replace the tooth immediately. Call us, Periodontal Associates at (971) 317-8414 to find out more about the single tooth implant procedure.

Beaverton Office
17895 NW Evergreen Pkwy #150
Beaverton, OR 97006

Tualatin Office
18753 SW Martinazzi Ave
Tualatin, OR 97062

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