Single Tooth Dental Implant at Alexandra Headland

Preserves Your Natural Teeth

A single tooth dental implant stands independently. You won’t need a dental bridge that requires preparing adjacent healthy teeth. This preservation of your natural tooth structure is one of the biggest advantages of choosing tooth implants over traditional options.

Maintains Jawbone Health

When tooth loss occurs, the underlying jaw bone begins to deteriorate from lack of stimulation. This can affect your facial structure over time. A dental implant provides the necessary stimulation to maintain bone density. If significant bone loss has already occurred, your implant dentist may recommend a bone graft or bone grafting procedure to ensure successful implant placement.

Long-Term Solution

With proper dental hygiene and care, tooth implants can last decades. The titanium rod is designed to integrate permanently with your jawbone. The porcelain crown can be replaced if needed after many years of service, giving you reliable function for the long term.

Natural Function and Comfort

Your prosthetic tooth will feel completely natural when eating, speaking, and smiling. There’s no slipping or clicking that can occur with removable alternatives. You’ll enjoy the confidence of knowing your tooth replacement is secure.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

During your consultation, our dental team will evaluate your oral health and take digital imaging to plan your treatment. We often use a CT scan or 3D scan to assess your jawbone density and structure. This helps us determine if you’re ready for dental implant placement or if you might benefit from a bone grafting procedure first. We can plan your implant, whether your tooth is already missing or needs to be removed.

Implant Placement

The titanium rod is carefully placed into your jawbone using precise digital planning techniques. Your implant dentist performs this oral surgery under local anaesthesia, and other sedation alternatives are available for your comfort. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, and most patients find it more comfortable than they expected.

Healing and Integration

Over the following months, your implant will integrate with your jawbone through osseointegration. This healing period creates a strong, stable foundation for your replacement tooth. During this time, you’ll have follow-up appointments so our dental team can monitor your progress.

Crown Attachment

Once integration is complete, we’ll attach an abutment to your implant and place your custom-made permanent crown. You can choose from options like a porcelain crown or porcelain fused to metal, depending on the location and your preferences. The crown is designed to match your natural teeth perfectly in both appearance and function.

Caring for Your Dental Implant

Maintaining your single tooth dental implant is straightforward and fits into your regular dental hygiene routine:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Floss daily around the implant crown, taking care of the gum tissue
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your dental team
• Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens

With proper care and attention to your oral health, your dental implant can provide decades of reliable service. Regular visits help prevent gum disease and ensure your implant stays healthy.

Why Choose Our Alexandra Headland Practice?

Our practice combines advanced digital planning technology with personalised patient care. We understand that tooth loss can affect your confidence and daily life. That’s why our dental team is committed to providing you with a comfortable treatment experience and natural-looking results.

We take time to explain each step of the dental implant surgery process and ensure you feel informed and comfortable throughout your treatment journey. Whether you need a straightforward implant placement or a bone graft before your procedure, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to restore your smile? Contact our practice today to schedule your consultation and discover if a single tooth dental implant is right for you.

How long does a single tooth implant procedure take?
The entire process typically takes 3-6 months from dental implant placement to final permanent crown attachment. The actual oral surgery usually takes 1-2 hours. Healing time is needed for proper integration with your jawbone. If you need a bone grafting procedure, this may add a few months to your timeline.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after dental implant placement. Local anaesthetic is used during the oral surgery, and any post-operative discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Many patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is.

How long do dental implants last?
With proper dental hygiene and maintenance, tooth implants can last decades. The titanium rod itself is designed to be permanent. The porcelain crown may need replacement after 15-20 years of normal use, depending on factors like your bite and oral health habits.

Am I suitable for a single tooth implant?
Most people with good general health and adequate jawbone density are suitable candidates. Some medical conditions may affect healing or implant success. During your consultation, our dental professional will assess your specific situation using imaging, like a CT scan. We’ll discuss whether additional procedures like a bone graft might be needed to ensure the best outcome.

What happens if I don’t replace my missing tooth?
Leaving a space can lead to shifting of adjacent teeth and bone loss in the jaw. These changes can affect both function and appearance over time. Missing teeth can also impact your bite and potentially contribute to gum disease in surrounding areas. Early treatment helps prevent these complications.

How much does a single tooth implant cost?
Treatment costs vary depending on individual circumstances and any additional procedures required, such as bone grafting. Some private health insurance plans provide coverage for portions of dental implant surgery. We’ll provide a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.