Yes. A single dental implant can replace one missing tooth by supporting a custom-made crown. The implant sits in your jawbone and acts as an artificial root, while the crown fills the gap you can see. Because the crown is supported by the implant, the teeth next to the gap don’t need to be reshaped to hold it in place.
If you’ve lost a front tooth and feel self-conscious when you smile, or you’re missing a back tooth and find yourself chewing on the other side, an implant is one option worth discussing with your dentist. At Coppice View Dental in Harrogate, we can assess the gap and explain which options suit your mouth.
Is a single tooth implant better than a bridge?
It depends on the teeth either side of the gap, the health of your gums and jawbone, and how you feel about surgery and healing time.
A single tooth implant supports its own crown. That can make it an attractive option when the neighbouring teeth are healthy and you want to avoid reshaping them. It does involve a surgical procedure, and the implant needs time to heal before the final crown is fitted.
A conventional bridge uses neighbouring teeth for support and may require them to be reshaped. In some cases, a resin-bonded bridge can be attached to a neighbouring tooth with little or no reshaping. A bridge can also be an option if you’d prefer to avoid implant surgery. You can read more about the types of dental bridge we offer in Harrogate.
Can I have an implant if the tooth has been missing for years?
You may still be able to have an implant. The key question is whether there’s enough bone in the right place to support it. The jawbone can change after a tooth is lost, so your dentist may take X-rays or recommend a scan to assess the area. If there isn’t enough bone, your dentist can explain whether bone grafting or another tooth replacement option is suitable.
How long does a single tooth implant take?
Treatment usually takes several months from assessment to final crown fitting. Once the implant has been placed, it needs time to bond with the jawbone before it can support the crown. The overall timescale depends on your healing and whether you need any additional treatment.
If the gap is at the front of your mouth, ask at your consultation whether a temporary tooth would be suitable while the implant heals.
What happens at an implant consultation?
Your dentist will examine the gap, check your gums and the surrounding teeth, and assess your jawbone. They’ll also ask about your medical history and what you’d like to achieve. If an implant is suitable, they can explain the treatment stages, likely timescale and costs. You can also ask how to clean around the finished crown and what follow-up care you’ll need.
Talk to us about replacing a missing tooth in Harrogate
If you’re weighing up an implant or a bridge, an assessment can help you decide what’s right for you. Find out more about dental implants at Coppice View Dental in Harrogate or call 01423 503 428 to arrange a consultation.
