A single implant is used to replace a single tooth. The dental implant has several advantages over a bridge.  One is that when a bridge is used, the adjacent teeth must be compromised so the bridge can be attached. This alters two teeth that do not need to be touched if an implant is used.  The next factor is that additional stress and pressures are placed on these adjoining teeth by the bridge.  A third thing to consider is that the bone where the tooth was, will start to deteriorate because the normal stimulation caused by the root of the tooth is now gone.  The bone will continue to recede throughout your lifetime.  Fourth, the missing tooth, receding bone, and the margins of the bridge are prone to providing a more favorable environment for gum disease.

The alternative is a dental implant. The dental implant stands alone, not needing support from the adjoining teeth. Its post functions much the same as the original tooth root, in that it stimulates the bone because of the normal pressures placed on it. Therefore, the bone supporting it tends to stay intact. The adjoining teeth have no additional stress placed on them. Since there is no gap being spanned with a bridge, the adjoining teeth have not been compromised, and the bone stays stimulated, gum disease is not an increased concern. An added benefit is that a single tooth implant appears exactly like a normal tooth.  Care is the same as for your other teeth. 

As for the steps in the procedure, first is a consultation and evaluation with Dr. Snodgrass.  The next step is for placement of the post.  This is done with conscious sedation in our office. If your implant is located where others can see it if you smile, you will leave our office with a removable device that snaps in and holds a prosthetic tooth, so you can resume your life quickly.  After a period of healing (typically 6 months), the post of your implant is uncovered, and a "healing abutment" is attached.  This is a very minor procedure done as a regular office visit. Soon after this, the restoration (tooth) is placed.  It will be designed to compliment your smile.