Existing Patients Call: 
(816) 350-9119
New Patients Call: 
(816) 623-2892
Smile Design Lee's Summit

Discovering the Advantages of Single-Tooth Dental Implants

April 30, 2024

Losing a tooth can be a distressing experience, but it's more common than you might think. In fact, millions of people across the United States are missing at least one tooth due to injury, decay, or gum disease. The impact of a missing tooth extends beyond your oral health and function; it may also affect your appearance, self-esteem, and confidence. At Summit Dental & Implant Clinic, we understand how important your smile is to you, which is why we offer the most advanced solutions for tooth replacement, including traditional fixed bridgework and dental implants.

The Traditional Approach: Fixed Dental Bridges

In the past, a fixed dental bridge was the go-to method for replacing a single missing tooth. This approach involves placing an artificial tooth between two dental crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap left by the missing tooth. While dental bridges remain a reliable and effective way to replace a missing tooth, you may also be eligible for a single-tooth dental implant.

A Modern Alternative: Single-Tooth Dental Implants

In addition to representing the most cutting-edge method of replacing missing teeth available today, a dental implant offers several advantages over conventional approaches to care. First and foremost, unlike traditional bridgework, a dental implant eliminates the need to prepare and crown adjacent teeth. Dental implants are entirely self-supporting, meaning that a single dental implant restored with a crown will be an effective and permanent replacement for a missing tooth.

Bone Health and Facial Appearance

Another key benefit of dental implants is their ability to support facial contours by preserving bone mass. When a tooth gets extracted or lost, the bone that previously supported it will gradually resorb over time. This shrinkage can compromise the support and cosmetic result for future restorations and even lead to facial sagging. However, since a dental implant gets placed directly into the jawbone and mimics the function of a natural tooth root, it provides the ongoing stimulation necessary to maintain bone mass and support facial contours.

Versatility in Tooth Replacement

Dental implants are the most versatile solution for replacing missing teeth and come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of a natural smile. In addition to replacing a single missing tooth, dental implants can replace multiple missing teeth up to an entire smile! They provide outstanding support for long-span bridgework and full-arch restoration and even offer added retention and stability to removable dentures.

Your Journey Towards a Complete Smile

At the office of Summit Dental & Implant Clinic, we're committed to providing you with the highest level of care. Our dedicated staff will guide you through every step of your tooth replacement journey, from consultation to completion. We use state-of-the-art technology and generations of dental ceramics to give you a smile you can be proud of. Patient comfort is our top priority, and we're here for you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about single-tooth dental implants or to schedule an appointment for care.

Contact Us

Existing Patients: (816) 350-9119
New Patients: (816) 623-2892
Emergency Service Available:
Every Day - 7:00 am – 3:30 pm

Office Hours

Monday
7:00 am - 3:30 pm
Tuesday
7:00 am - 3:30 pm
Wednesday
7:00 am - 3:30 pm
Thursday
7:00 am - 3:30 pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday
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Sunday
Closed