02 Solutions For Single Missing Tooth

When a single tooth is missing, the two most common treatment options are:

1. A traditional tooth-supported bridge (3-unit bridge)
2. An implant-supported crown

When a tooth-supported bridge is used to replace one missing tooth, the adjacent teeth are cut down or ground down into peg shapes so the bridge has a support system. This process unfortunately destroys natural enamel and tooth structure, but must be done in order to fit the new cemented bridge in place. Even though a 3-unit tooth-supported bridge can be functional for many years, the compromised teeth (those healthy teeth cut down to support the bridge) frequently develop decay, periodontal bone loss or need root-canal treatment. This often leads to future problems that will be more expensive and complicated to treat later. So even though the immediate problem of a missing tooth is remedied with a tooth-supported bridge, future problems with adjacent teeth are created.

Replace one tooth with an implant supported crown and preserve the integrity of all adjacent teeth.

An implanted-supported crown is far superior to a traditional tooth-supported dental bridge:

• Adjacent natural teeth are preserved – not destroyed
• A dental implant looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth
• Dental implants are designed to remain aesthetically pleasing for a lifetime
• The bone is upheld, preventing a visible bony defect
• Cleaning is easier and more hygienic
• Implants do not decay and you will never need a root canal

Immediate Implant Placement

If you undergo extraction, you might be concerned about the length of time you’ll have to spend with a missing tooth before dental implant can be place. While some cases of tooth extraction require a healing period or another dental procedure before implants can be place, some patients can undergo immediate implant placement with no complications.

Criteria for Immediate Implant Placement 

Two factors must be considered before you are deemed a candidate for immediate implant placement after extraction.

Infection-  The extraction site should be free of inflammation, gum disease, or other infection. If any of these conditions are present, they will need to be treated before implant can be placed.

Bone density – Dental implants cannot be placed unless a sufficient amount of bone is present to support them. If bone deterioration has occurred, or if the implant cannot be placed and stabilized, you will need to undergo a period of healing and may be even bone grafting procedure before getting dental implants.

Advantages of Immediate Dental Implant Placement

Immediate implant placement reduces the amount of time you’ll have to spend in the dental chair, and it allows a quicker treatment period.  Often, a tooth can be removed, the implant placed, and a temporary crown can be placed in the same day.

Immediate Loading After Implant Placement

Traditionally, dental implant treatment has been performed in two steps. The first involves carefully installing the implant, which is then left for three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, the patient is provided with a temporary prosthesis until the permanent crown(s) can be attached to the implant(s).

Today, there is an alternative to the two-step method that allows you to have the implant installed in single session. This new method has significantly simplified the procedures, making the experience more pleasant and less complicated for patients. You can have your implants andcrowns placed onto the implant within a day. The result of this treatment protocol is instant aesthetics and function. Whether or not you are a suitable candidate for immediate loading depends on several factors, such as your general dental health, the number of missing teeth and which teeth are being replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits to the dentist throughout the treatment period. Immediate loading can apply to a single missing tooth as well as patients with no teeth wearing full dentures.

At Dr Hung & Associates Dental Center , you will be satisfied with 5Star International Dental service standards: professional team, advanced equipment, highest quality warranty policy, relaxing space and the “Attentive – Gentle – Careful” service which will give you the perfect treatment result.

Posted in: implant