Replacing a Single Tooth with Dental Implants

When a tooth is lost, there are generally two accepted ways of replacing it:

1. A Single Dental Implant
2. A Three Unit Bridge

Step by Step Procedure

The following is general overview and comparison for both techniques of replacing a single tooth.

The Basic Principle

Single Tooth Implant	Bridge
A dental implant works like a post which is solidly anchored in the ground. This post holds the dental crown, exactly like a natural tooth root holds a natural crown	A dental bridge is called a bridge because the teeth on either side hold a replacement tooth in the middle.

Step One: Creating the Posts

Single Tooth Implant	Bridge
A dental implant is placed into the jawbone and an upper piece (abutment) is then put on top of it.	The healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth are ground down to small pegs. This destroys these teeth.

Step Two: Making the Crowns

Single Tooth Implant	Bridge
A dental crown is made by the dentist which will be cemented onto the abutment.	A three crown bridge is made by the dentist which will fit onto the two tooth pegs.

Step Three: Placing the Crowns

Single Tooth Implant	Bridge
The abutment and crown are attached to the implant post	The three crown bridge is cemented onto the pegs.

Oral Hygiene Afterwards

Single Tooth Implant	Bridge
Oral hygiene for dental implants is just like taking care of natural teeth - brushing and flossing.	Food and debris will get underneath your bridge and a Bridge Threader must be vigorously poked under the Bridge to keep it clean.