Replacing a Single Tooth
Most people will lose at least one tooth in their life. You may think that small gap is not harmful and the only reason to replace it is for cosmetic purposes. The reality is that even one single missing tooth can lead to a variety of complex issues with your oral health. That seemingly harmless void in your jaw bone will begin to weaken and deteriorate, eventually leading to bone loss. The surrounding teeth will begin to shift towards the hallow space. This can lead to bite issues and increase your risk for gum disease.
The good news is if you are faced with a damaged or missing tooth, your dentist in Arlington Heights, IL offers the solutions to replace the lost tooth. The two main options include a implant-supported dental crown, and a dental bridge.
Why Choose a Dental Implant for a Single Missing Tooth?
A dental implant looks and functions just like your natural tooth, providing the best solution to replacing your lost tooth. Dental implants are actually titanium posts that are surgically implanted in to your jaw bone to replace the tooth root as well as support the replacement tooth. This better preserves the bone and prevents bone loss. The replacement tooth is a dental crown that will look, feel and function just like your other teeth. It will also not require any extra special care. You can brush and floss as you normally do and there are no food restrictions.
Why You Should Not Choose a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge has been a reliable option for many years to replace a single missing tooth. While it is a sturdy option, this restoration sacrifices the health of the surrounding teeth. The bridgework relies on the two teeth on either side of the gap to support it. These two anchor teeth will need to be ground-down to accommodate the bridge. The bridge, which is made of two crowns on both ends and piece in the middle called a pontic (the replacement tooth), is then cemented to the reduced teeth. This solution can eventually lead to bone loss and puts a lot of stress on the two anchor teeth.
The Cost of a Single Dental Implant
Determining the cost of a single dental implant will vary greatly from patient to patient. Generally speaking, the industry average cost is about $4,000. This includes the surgical placement of the implant, the abutment, the crown, all the office visits involved, and some of the additional materials. The price could go up if you require additional pre-treatments such as a bone graft or gum disease therapy. Also, depending on the location of the missing tooth, the cost of the materials can vary greatly. Learn more about dental implant costs here.
While the cost of an implant secured dental crown is more, the advantages are greater. For patients that qualify, Dr. Engelberg will always recommend a single dental implant over a dental bridge. To learn more about dental implants, schedule a consultation online today at our Arlington Heights, IL dentist office.