Single Tooth Loss        

Tooth loss takes a terrible toll on the overall health and well-being of people.  A missing front tooth draws instant focus to the mouth due to the unattractiveness of the smile. 

When a single tooth needs replacing an implant is often the treatment of choice.  The implant, which is an artificial tooth root, is placed in the bone.  A crown is then placed over the end of the implant.  This restoration looks and feels like a real tooth.

A common occurrence when a space has been created from the extraction of a tooth, is the drifting or twisting of teeth into the space left behind.  This can lead to a misaligned bite and possible TMJ issues.  An implant tooth and crown provides the important benefit of support for chewing, and by filling the space, preventing the drifting of the other teeth from occurring.

Previously the only treatment option would be a bridge which removes healthy tooth structure from the neighbouring teeth.  Now with the option of implants you can preserve healthy teeth as well as maintain healthy gums and bone.

As implant research continues there has been new developments.  Previously in the healing time of 4-6 months after the implant surgery, clients would wear a plastic retainer with a tooth which would hold the position between the teeth and allow an esthetic solution while the healing occurred.  This was often uncomfortable and clumsy.

Now we are able to place a temporary crown on the implant, immediately after the placement of the implant.  Once the healing has occurred (typically 4-6 months) a permanent crown is secured on to the implant.

Alternatives to an all-ceramic crown on implants

	Tooth-supported fixed bridge: A traditional bridge involves grinding down adjacent teeth to support the bridge. It is a stable solution with good esthetics and function. This alternative has two main disadvantages: continuous bone re-absorption in the areas without teeth, and the sacrifice of healthy teeth on behalf of the bridge.
	Removable partial denture: This is not a permanent alternative to a lost tooth.  It is unstable and loosely attached, which affects both function and comfort. A removable partial denture is made of plastic – a material that can't create the same esthetic result as a ceramic crown. The benefits are few but do exist: adjacent teeth aren't affected. It is easily and quickly installed and relatively inexpensive.
	Resin-bonded bridge: This alternative has some clear advantages: it is quickly installed, functions well and, since it is made of ceramic provides an adequate esthetic result. One benefit of this alternative is that healthy teeth are not affected.  Unfortunately this is not a long term, permanent solution. The resin-bonded bridge will eventually come off – probably after just a couple of years – and will then have to be reinstalled.

Transforming Lives One Smile at a Time