Practice Limited to Periodontics & Dental Implants
3415 S Lafountain
Suite K
Kokomo, IN 46902
Tel:
(765) 864-0700
Toll Free:
(800) 303-2998
Single Tooth Dental Implant
Dental implants replace the tooth root. This treatment is best accomplished when two dentist are working together. Dr. Wiland has extensive training in the placement of dental implants. He would place the dental implant and then allow it to heal for about 2-3 months. You always have a nice looking temporary in areas that can be seen. After the dental implant fuses with the bone during the 2-3 month healing period, an abutment is placed onto the dental implant. An abutment is a piece of metal that connects to the dental implant. The crown is then permanently cemented to the abutment. In some cases the dental implant can be placed, the abutment connected and a temporary crown placed all within about an hour. Read what the American Academy of Periodontology says about dental implants by clicking here AAP technical information can be found at Straumannusa.com
To view a brochure on replacing a single tooth with a dental implant click here.
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Steps In Replacing A Single Tooth
With A Dental Implant
- The site is examined to determine if there is enough bone height and width to place an implant. If there is not, then Dr. Wiland can perform a simple procedure called bone grafting to make the bone necessary for the placement of a dental implant. If the hopeless tooth is present, Dr. Wiland will talk with you about possibly having the tooth removed and an implant immediately placed.
- The implant is placed and allowed to heal for about 2-3 months in most cases. If the area is visible, a temporary is also delivered at this time so you are never without teeth.
- The implant is allowed to heal for about 2-3 months. If an abutment has not already been placed, then it is placed at this time.
- You are now ready to see your general dentist to have a crown made. The crown that is placed onto a dental implant is very natural looking. It fits and functions just like a natural tooth. It is cared for like a natural tooth with normal brushing and flossing daily.
Alternatives To A Single Tooth
Dental Implant
Traditional Tooth Supported Fixed Bridge
This is when the teeth next to the empty space are crowned. A replacement tooth is permanently connected to these crowns to replace the missing tooth. Bridges can get dental decay. They last about 8-10 years and then need to be replaced, although many have lasted much longer than this time period. They have been done for many years.
Removable Patial Denture
This option replaces the missing tooth, but has an appliance and should be removed for cleaning and sleep. It is usually the least expensive and most uncomfortable option. It uses other teeth in the arch to hook onto and stay in the mouth. Sometimes this will cause wear on the teeth it connects to.