At Reedy Creek Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Cary, NC, we understand that losing even a single tooth can affect your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. Our single tooth dental implant solutions provide a permanent, natural-looking replacement that feels and functions just like your own tooth.
A single tooth dental implant is a modern solution that replaces both the visible part of your missing tooth and its root. Unlike other replacement options, dental implants become a permanent part of your jaw, offering unmatched stability and longevity. Our experienced team in Cary uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure your comfort and optimal results throughout your implant journey.
Why Choose a Single Tooth Implant?
When faced with a missing tooth, you have several replacement options, but single tooth implants offer unique advantages:
- Preserves Your Natural Teeth: Unlike traditional bridges that require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth for support, a single tooth implant stands independently. This means your surrounding natural teeth remain untouched and healthy.
- Prevents Bone Loss: When you lose a tooth, your jawbone in that area can begin to deteriorate over time. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement option that actually stimulates bone growth and prevents bone loss, maintaining your facial structure and oral health.
- Natural Look and Feel: Our custom-made implant crowns are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Most patients forget which tooth is the implant after healing is complete!
- Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, your single tooth implant can last a lifetime. Unlike bridges or partial dentures that typically need replacement every 5-10 years, implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss.
- Improved Comfort and Function: Implants don’t slip or move when you eat, laugh, or speak. You’ll enjoy restored chewing ability and can eat all your favorite foods without worry.
The Single Tooth Implant Process at Reedy Creek
At our Cary dental office, we’ve streamlined the implant process to ensure your comfort every step of the way:
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough examination where we evaluate your oral health, bone density, and suitability for implants. We use advanced imaging technology to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Implant Placement
During this minor surgical procedure, we gently place a small titanium post into your jawbone where the missing tooth once was. This is done under local anesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout. Many patients report that implant placement is more comfortable than having a tooth extracted.
Healing Period
Over the next 2-4 months, the implant will fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong foundation for your new tooth. During this time, we may provide a temporary tooth replacement if the missing tooth is in a visible area.
Abutment and Crown Placement
Once healing is complete, we attach a small connector piece (abutment) to the implant. Then, we secure your custom-made crown to the abutment. This crown is carefully crafted to match your surrounding teeth perfectly, completing your beautiful, natural-looking smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Single Tooth Implants
How much does a single tooth implant cost?
The cost of a single tooth implant varies depending on individual needs, including whether additional procedures like bone grafting are required. At Reedy Creek Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer financing options and work with most insurance plans to make this investment in your oral health affordable.
Is getting a dental implant painful?
Most patients are surprised at how comfortable the procedure is. We use effective local anesthesia during the implant placement, and any post-procedure discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Our gentle approach and attention to your comfort are priorities.
How do I care for my dental implant?
One of the benefits of dental implants is that they require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. There’s no need for special cleansers or nightly removal like with dentures.
How long will my single tooth implant last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, your single tooth implant can last a lifetime. The crown portion may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear, but the implant itself often lasts permanently.
Am I a good candidate for a single tooth implant?
Most adults with good general and oral health are candidates for dental implants. During your consultation at our Cary office, we’ll evaluate factors like bone density and gum health to determine if an implant is right for you. Even if you’ve been told you lack sufficient bone, advanced techniques like bone grafting may make implants possible.
How long does the entire implant process take?
From consultation to final crown placement, the process typically takes 3-6 months. This timeline allows for proper healing and ensures the long-term success of your implant.
At Reedy Creek Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Cary, NC, we’re committed to restoring your smile with the highest quality dental implant care. Our experienced team combines technical expertise with a gentle, patient-centered approach to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Request Your Implant Consultation
Ready to replace your missing tooth with a solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural? Contact our Cary office today to schedule your implant consultation and take the first step toward a complete, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
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