Crown Dental

Tooth Implants, The Single Missing Tooth Solution

Single Missing Tooth Problem:

You're missing a single tooth. Until recently your only options were limited: a fixed bridge or a removable partial denture -- which meant removing enamel from adjoining teeth. It was a very short list.

Single Missing Tooth Solution:

Thanks to modern dentistry techniques, single tooth implants are now a good alternative. Although most patients use tooth implants to replace an ill-fitting denture, or to bridge a large gap of several missing teeth, it's now possible for you to have a single tooth replacement.

You're a good candidate for single tooth implants if you are in good health and the jawbone where the tooth implant will be fitted has not receded. You have to be of age, since your facial growth must be complete.

There are many advantages to this procedure. Single tooth implants are strong. Unlike dentures, they require less care. And the implants look and feel natural. So instead of being embarrassed by a missing tooth, you'll have something to smile about.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Teeth Implants, Close Up and Natural - Is Implant Dentistry for You?

Teeth implants are a tooth replacement therapy offering natural-looking options for patients. Dental implants anchor artificial or prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. Their performance is nearly equal to natural teeth, providing a secure and comfortable fit, a natural appearance, and a big dose of confidence for people of all ages.

A tooth implant duplicates the tooth's structure. Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone is made of titanium. This metal does well in the body and rarely causes any reaction in patients. It is the same material that is used in knee and hip replacements.

• The implant is cylindrical in shape, resembling a screw, and may even have a thread-like surface. They're uniquely designed with small holes at the outside surfaces for a very good reason. Like the roots of natural teeth, tooth implants stimulate bone growth. It even fools Mother Nature! Over time, the bone tissue actually grows into the small holes, securing the implant.
• The abutment rests over the metal implant. It's a small piece of metal whose purpose is to connect the prosthesis to the tooth implant.
• The prosthesis is the replacement tooth, a natural-looking crown or bridge (if there are multiple teeth missing). A prosthesis that's used to replace a complete set of teeth can be either fixed or removable. A removable prosthesis can be taken out for easy cleaning; a fixed one can only be removed by the dentist, but usually offers better reliability for chewing.

How Do These Different Teeth Implants Parts Work Together?

Since the tooth implant duplicates the tooth's structure, each part contributes to a natural-like functioning of the teeth. Whether replacing one or more teeth, the process of repair is the same. The teeth implants insertion procedure involves three main steps:

1. The first is the surgical insertion of the metal implants.
2. This is followed by a second surgery, about three to six months later, to insert the abutment.
3. The third step, usually two to four weeks later, is custom-making the prosthesis and attaching it to the abutment. There are typically several adjustments needed until the prosthesis is attached to the abutments.

Once the prosthesis comfortably fits, your future is secure. You'll enjoy comfort, confidence, and security in meeting the world and smiling in a whole new way with your new teeth implants.

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICO

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.