Even if you have a single missing tooth, replacing it as soon as possible is important. Missing teeth can create many problems over time, including shifting teeth. Teeth adjacent to the missing tooth gap can shift and overcrowd.
Overcrowding can make it much more difficult to clean between teeth, leading to problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Our dental office provides single-tooth dental implants in Marshall, TX, to help patients restore their smiles and prevent oral health issues.
Common Missing Teeth Problems
There are many problems that patients can face, even if they have a single missing tooth:
- Difficulty eating
- Stress on the jaw joints
- Tooth damage
- Gum recession
- Bone loss
If you experience any of these problems from a missing tooth, please call our dental office. Replacing a missing tooth as soon as possible is important to prevent future oral health issues. In addition, you can lose more teeth if you have already lost a tooth from a dental infection.
Single Tooth Implants in Marshall, TX
A single dental implant consists of a titanium metal post, attaching abutment, and dental crown. Before implant treatment, we will examine the smile and see if you require bone grafting treatment. For example, if it has been some time since you lost your tooth, you may need bone grafting. Bone grafting supplies healthy bone where it is required to ensure that implants have a stable foundation.
Once we ensure you’re ready for implant treatment, we will schedule surgery. We make a small incision in the gums during surgery to access the jaw bone. Next, we place the titanium implant post in the jaw bone. Then, we place a healing cap on the implant. Over a period called osseointegration, the jaw bone fuses with the titanium post.
Once you heal, we attach the dental crown. Then, we take dental scans of the mouth to create a custom crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth.
How long do single dental implants last?
The dental crown can last 15 years, while the implant post can be permanent. Because the implant posts become a part of the smile, they should last with the proper care.
Do gums grow back around implants?
Your gums will grow after the implant fully heals. The gum will surround your dental crown like a natural tooth. We will schedule checkups to ensure your gums stay healthy during the implant process.
Is dental implant treatment painful?
You may feel discomfort for several days to a week after your procedure. However, eating a diet of soft foods and taking pain medication directly after treatment can help the healing process go smoothly.
Replace Your Missing Tooth
Did you accidentally knock out a permanent tooth? Have you lost a tooth to decay? Get professional care as soon as possible. Contact our dental office for restorative care at 903-437-8048. You can also request a dental consultation with our team online. Please let us know if you have any questions for our office, and we will be glad to help you.