Single-Tooth Dental Implants
You Can Love Your Smile Again!
Has a lost tooth made you feel self-conscious about your smile? Well, you don’t have to worry about living like that forever. With dental implants, our top-rated Bakersfield dentist can replace your lost tooth and have you smiling from ear to ear once again!
To learn more about our treatment options, contact Dr. Garger today by calling 661-664-9900 to set up your consultation.
What Is a Single-Tooth Dental Implant?
A single-tooth dental implant is a type of artificial replacement tooth placed into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth. It’s a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
A single-tooth implant consists of three parts:
- The implant: A small, screw-like post made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the jawbone.
- The abutment: A connector piece that attaches to the implant and protrudes above the gumline.
- The crown: The artificial tooth that is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth.
Single-Tooth Implant Benefits
Single-tooth implants offer several benefits over other tooth replacements, such as dentures and dental bridges. Benefits include:
- Natural appearance: Single implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, restoring your smile and confidence.
- Improved chewing and speaking abilities: With a single tooth implant, you can chew and speak more effectively, improving your overall quality of life and avoiding social embarrassment.
- Preservation of adjacent teeth: Unlike traditional bridges, implants don’t require the adjacent teeth to be shaved down for support. This preserves the natural structure of neighboring teeth.
- Long-lasting and durable: With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a great investment for your oral health.
- Bone health: When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone may begin to deteriorate over time. Implants stimulate bone growth and help prevent bone loss by integrating with the jawbone.
- Improved oral health: Dental implants help preserve the jawbone and prevent further bone loss, which can occur after losing a tooth. They also make it easier to maintain good dental health, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Convenience and comfort: Single-tooth implants are comfortable and convenient, eliminating the need for messy adhesives and uncomfortable dentures.
- Enhanced self-confidence: Having a complete smile can boost your self-esteem and confidence in social and professional situations.
- Long-term cost-effectiveness: While the initial cost of implants may be higher than other options, their longevity and durability often make them a more cost-effective choice over time, as they typically require fewer repairs or replacements.
The Single-Tooth Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure typically requires two or three appointments over several months. During the first appointment, our Bakersfield dentist will assess your oral health and plan the placement of the implant. If the damaged or decayed tooth is still present, it may need to be extracted before the implant procedure can begin. In some cases, the tooth may have already been lost or removed.
During the second appointment, the implant gets placed in the jawbone, and a temporary crown will be placed over the implant. Once the jawbone and the implant fuse, the final porcelain crown will be attached, and you’ll have a brand-new, beautiful smile.
Candidates for Single-Tooth Implants
Ideal candidates for single-tooth implants include:
- Patients with a single missing tooth or several missing teeth in different locations
- Patients with good oral hygiene and a commitment to maintaining it
- Patients with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant
- Patients without any medical conditions that may affect the healing process
For those suffering from sufficient density, there are supplemental procedures available to prepare your mouth for dental implants. Procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift may be recommended.
Contact our experienced dental implant dentist to learn more about dental implants and if you’re a good candidate.
What Is the Cost of a Single Tooth Dental Implant?
The cost of a single-tooth dental implant can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the location of the dental clinic, and the materials used. On average, single dental implants cost between $1,000 and $3,000.
In most cases, insurance will cover a portion of the dental implant cost. Some practices also offer financing options to ensure you get the care you need regardless of your expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, single-tooth implants can be used for front teeth in the upper jaw. They provide patients with a natural-looking tooth replacement that can last them a lifetime.
Yes, single-tooth dental implants will feel and function like your natural teeth. They’re made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth and are securely anchored in your jawbone, allowing for normal biting and chewing abilities.
A single dental implant usually causes less discomfort than a surgical operation involving multiple implants. Patients usually experience minor discomfort and swelling for a few days after their surgical implant placement. Any pain around the implant site can be managed through cold compresses and over-the-counter medications.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
If you’re considering a single-tooth dental implant surgery, consult with a licensed dental professional to determine if you’re a candidate. At our Bakersfield dental office, our dentist offers single-tooth dental implants. We’ll be happy to meet with you to discuss your smile goals to see if we can help you achieve them.
Contact our Bakersfield dentist and schedule your appointment today.