Single tooth implants are available from the board-certified tooth restoration specialists at Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry in Huntington Station.
Do you have a failing tooth that will need to be extracted? Or perhaps you already have one or more unnatural gaps in your smile. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about—edentulism affects millions of American adults. But it certainly can be uncomfortable—and unhealthy—to chew food, talk, and smile for pictures with an incomplete smile. Furthermore, the longer you go without that tooth, the greater the risk for additional health complications, like a decrease in jawbone density. Our Long Island dentists have an affordable solution for you in single tooth dental implants.
A Closer Look at Single Tooth Implants
Single tooth implants are an excellent alternative to dentures. Whereas dentures are removable appliances, an implant is an artificial prosthesis that the dentist will anchor directly inside the jawbone. The implant mimics the natural tooth root. As you chew, the gentle biting force on the implant stimulates the growth of new jawbone mass.
The implant itself, which is usually made of surgical-grade titanium, is not visible after the surgery. An abutment is placed on top of the implant, and secured to the abutment is the crown—the white, tooth-like component that will complete your smile.
Patients often prefer dental implants compared to dentures because they are a permanent solution—they’ll never shift around as you eat or talk. Tooth implants are also far more comfortable; they feel just like a natural tooth. Other benefits of single tooth implants include the following:
- Easy to maintain oral hygiene and reduce the risk of tooth decay
- Doesn’t exert force on adjacent teeth and consequently, won’t damage adjacent teeth
- Looks completely natural when you smile
- Will help keep the jawbone strong
Are You a Good Candidate for a Dental Implant?
Most people with missing teeth are good candidates for dental implants, but Dr. Nick or Dr. Elliot will perform a thorough oral examination and review of your health history to ensure your safety and well-being. It’s important to disclose your full health history, including medical conditions, medications, and supplements, as well as certain lifestyle issues like smoking. If you are a smoker, you’ll be asked to quit prior to surgery, as smoking greatly increases the risk of poor wound healing and failure of the dental implant. In addition, longtime smokers may be more likely to require a bone graft prior to placing a dental implant.
The dentists will consider each patient on a case-by-case basis. In general, however, good candidates for single tooth implants are in good overall health, have healthy gums, and have enough bone mass to support the implant. It’s also important that you remain committed to excellent oral hygiene practices to encourage the longevity of the dental implant and your remaining natural teeth.
