More people are requesting dental implants due to the limitations of removable prosthetics. As a result, the global dental implant market could grow by 9.8% between 2024 and 2030. According to the American Dental Association, patients receive about five million implants annually.

Single dental implants restore smiles. What exactly does the dental implant process entail, and what are the benefits of dental implants? Read on to find out!

Introductory Implant Dentistry Information

Dental implants are artificial replacements for lost or damaged teeth. They look like small screws and can support a fake tooth (a custom-made crown). Your dentist will surgically place the implant into your jawbone, which can ensure long-term stability.

The two most common types of dental implants are endosteal and subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants are more common. They resemble small screws, which are made of body-safe materials.

Endosteal implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a natural tooth root. A dental implant can anchor one or more teeth. 

Sometimes, a patient's jawbone is not healthy enough or lacks the volume to support an endosteal implant. For these patients, dentists recommend subperiosteal implants inserted under the gum line. These implants are placed on or above bone but not in the bone.

Ideal Patients for Single Tooth Replacement

Ideal patients for single tooth replacement surgery have good dental and overall health. They are missing a tooth or have a tooth that requires extraction.

Some conditions can make you ineligible for this treatment, including:

• Blood clotting disorders
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Active cancer treatment
• Metabolic bone disease
• Heavy smoking

If you are missing or have a damaged tooth, talk to an implant dentist. They will determine if you are an ideal candidate for the dental implant process. 

The Dental Implant Process

Consult a Jersey City dentist to determine if single tooth replacement surgery suits your needs. They will evaluate your teeth, gums, and jawbone. If your jawbone is too soft or thin, they may recommend another course of treatment.

This outpatient procedure may be done using:

• IV sedation
• General anesthesia
• Local anesthesia

Consult your dentist before surgery to review your options.

The single tooth replacement procedure is broken up over multiple appointments. Depending on your body's healing process, it may take three to nine months.

During the surgery, an oral surgeon will cut open your gums to expose your jawbone. They will drill into the bone, creating a hole for the implant post. Your dentist may place a temporary, removable denture over the hole while you heal.

It is normal to notice some swelling or discomfort after this procedure. It can last a few days. Follow your dentist's post-procedure plan (including resting and consuming a soft diet).

After your initial surgery, osseointegration will occur. This process can take two to six months while new bone grows around the implant screw.

This stage in the dental implant process gives your natural jawbone time to strengthen. The bone will keep the implant firmly in place, allowing it to function like a natural tooth root.

Once the area heals, your dentist will place an abutment (a metal extender) atop the implant. The abutment will connect your implant and replacement tooth. You may need several weeks to heal after this procedure.

After a few weeks, your dentist will make an impression on your teeth to create your custom crown. You can choose between a fixed or removable tooth.

Aftercare

Let your dentist know if you experience:

• Ongoing discomfort
• Severe pain
• Swelling
• Bleeding

Your teeth should feel natural. Let your dentist know if your bite is uncomfortable or uneven.

Care for your single tooth replacement the same way you would your natural teeth.Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Visit your dentist twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings.

How long do dental implants last? They are intended to be permanent. It depends on how well you care for them.

According to the National Library of Medicine, implants have a 90 to 95% success rate over 10 years. Potential complications include:

• Bleeding from the implant site
• Pain
• Infection

Let your dentist know if you experience any of these issues right away. While the implant is permanent, your crown can experience wear and tear. Between 50 to 80% of crowns require replacement every 15 to 20 years.

Benefits of Dental Implants

One of the primary benefits of dental implants is their durability.They can last longer than alternative single-tooth replacement options. You can learn more about how long dental implants last here.

A dental implant may help you avoid bone loss after losing a tooth. Your jaw bone requires stimulation, and without a tooth root, your body may break down and reabsorb bone tissue.

The implant can provide your jawbone with the necessary stimulation as an artificial tooth root. This can prevent changes to your appearance, including:

• Sunken cheeks
• Bite misalignment
• Sagging skin

You may develop wrinkles, which can make you appear older. Affordable dental implants can protect your appearance and self-confidence.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are more comfortable than alternative treatment options like dentures. Since the crown functions like a normal tooth, you can speak and chew without issues.

They can help keep your adjacent teeth stable. When you lose a tooth, surrounding teeth may shift toward the gap. The implant can fill in the gap to prevent them from slipping.

Compared to dentures, dental implants:

• Closely resemble and feel like natural teeth
• Preserve jawbone tissue
• Generally last longer
• Provide comfort when chewing
• Require less maintenance

Talk to your dentist to determine if single tooth replacement is a better treatment option for your needs than other treatment options. They can help you make an informed decision based on your overall health and concerns. 

Request Single Dental Implants Today

To recap, what are single dental implants? They are artificial tooth roots that can replace lost teeth. A dental implant can restore your smile, protecting your health and self-confidence. 

Our Dental Spa New Jersey team can boost your self-confidence and improve your oral hygiene. We prioritize quality of care and comfort by incorporating ancient Chinese practices to create a relaxing environment.



Benefit from our extensive array of services. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.