Losing a single tooth, whether through decay, trauma, gum disease or failed root canal treatment, may seem like a minor issue, but leaving a gap may lead to changes in the surrounding teeth, bite or jawbone over time. A tooth implant is one option worth discussing with your dentist if you have a single missing tooth and are considering a fixed option for replacing a missing tooth.

Why Replacing a Single Missing Tooth Matters

Teeth work as a system. When one is removed or lost, the surrounding teeth and underlying bone can be affected over time. Some patients choose not to replace a missing back tooth because it is not visible, but there are clinical reasons to consider replacement even in these cases.

• Bone at the extraction site may gradually reduce in volume following tooth loss
• Adjacent teeth may begin to drift or tilt into the gap over time
• The tooth above or below the gap may over-erupt (move into the open space)
• Changes in tooth position may affect the way the teeth bite together
• A gap in the visible smile may be an aesthetic concern for some patients
• Chewing function may be affected, depending on the location of the missing tooth, particularly for back teeth

Whether replacement is appropriate in your situation depends on the location of the missing tooth, your overall oral health, and your personal preferences. Your dentist will discuss the options and the implications of each.

A single tooth implant consists of three components that work together to replace a missing tooth and support a dental crown:

Tooth Implant vs Traditional Bridge

A traditional dental bridge is another option for replacing a single missing tooth. The right choice depends on your clinical situation, bone levels, the condition of adjacent teeth, and other factors. The key differences are worth understanding:

The Single Tooth Implant Process

Single tooth implant treatment is typically completed over two clinical stages, with a healing period between them.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for a Tooth Implant?

A clinical assessment is required to determine individual suitability. Factors that may be considered include:

• Sufficient jawbone volume and density at the implant site
• Healthy gums with no active periodontal (gum) disease
• General health, medical history and any factors that may affect healing will be considered
• Commitment to ongoing oral hygiene and regular professional maintenance
• Smoking status and its potential effect on healing and implant outcomes will be considered (smoking is associated with an increased risk of implant complications and failure)

Patients who have experienced significant bone loss at the missing tooth site bone grafting or other procedures may be considered before or at the time of implant placement. This will be assessed through 3D imaging and clearly communicated if it applies to your situation.

Cost of a Single Tooth Implant in Canning Vale

The cost of a single tooth implant at Dentists @ Canning Vale varies depending on the location of the tooth and any additional procedures required. Starting-from guide prices are:

These are starting-from guide prices only and are not a quote. Actual treatment costs vary depending on individual clinical needs and will be confirmed in a personalised treatment plan. Additional procedures such as bone grafting, sinus lifting or 3D imaging will be itemised separately in your personalised treatment plan. For a full breakdown of implant-related costs, visit our dental implant costs page.

Health Fund Rebates

Depending on your private health extras cover, you may be eligible to claim benefits towards some components of your treatment, depending on your level of cover and applicable limits. Dentists @ Canning Vale offers HICAPS on-the-spot claiming with all major health funds. We are a preferred provider for BUPA Members First Platinum, Medibank Members' Choice Advantage, HCF More For Teeth, HBF Member Plus, NIB First Choice, CBHS Choice Network and Smile.com.au.

Frequently Asked Questions, Single Tooth Implants