Single Tooth Replacement - Implants in St. Augustine, FL

When you lose a single tooth, whether from injury, decay, or gum disease, the solution you choose can significantly impact your oral health, confidence, and overall quality of life. Dental implants represent the gold standard for single tooth replacement, offering a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions exactly like your natural tooth.

Unlike removable partial dentures or dental bridges that rely on adjacent teeth for support, a dental implant replaces both the tooth root and crown. This comprehensive approach preserves your jawbone structure while providing the stability and durability you need to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.

Understanding Single Tooth Dental Implants

A dental implant consists of three essential components working together to create your new tooth. The implant itself is a small titanium post placed into your jawbone, serving as an artificial root. An abutment connects to this implant, and finally, a custom-crafted crown completes the restoration.

The process begins when our team carefully places the titanium implant into the precise location where your tooth root once was. This implant integrates with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a foundation that’s actually stronger than your original tooth root. Modern dental implants demonstrate impressive success rates of 95%, making them the most predictable tooth replacement option available today.

What sets dental implants apart from other replacement options is their ability to stimulate your jawbone just like natural teeth. When you chew, the implant transmits forces through your bone, maintaining healthy bone density and preventing the facial collapse often seen with missing teeth.

What to Expect From The Single Tooth Implant Procedure

Your journey toward a complete smile begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, jawbone density, and overall medical history. During this initial consultation, we use advanced 3D imaging technology to assess your bone structure and plan the precise placement of your implant.

Dr. Douglas Johnson performs the implant placement procedure under IV sedation for your complete comfort. Many patients are pleasantly surprised to discover the procedure itself is more comfortable than they anticipated. We create a small access point in your gum tissue and carefully place the titanium implant into your jawbone with precise positioning.

Following placement, your implant needs time to integrate with your surrounding bone tissue. This healing period typically takes three to six months, during which you may wear a temporary restoration to maintain your smile’s appearance and function. Once integration is complete, we attach the abutment and place your custom crown, completing your new tooth.

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Advantages of Single Tooth Implants

Choosing a dental implant for single tooth replacement offers numerous advantages over alternative solutions.

Preservation of Existing Tooth Structure

Unlike a traditional bridge, which requires modifying healthy adjacent teeth, an implant preserves your existing tooth structure completely. This conservative approach maintains the long-term health of your surrounding teeth.

More Stability

The stability provided by dental implants allows you to eat all your favorite foods without worry. From crispy apples to chewy steaks, your implant-supported crown can handle the same forces as your natural teeth. This dietary freedom contributes significantly to your overall nutrition and quality of life.

Easy Maintenance

Maintenance of your implant is straightforward and mirrors your natural tooth care routine. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings keep your implant and surrounding tissues healthy for decades. With proper care, your single tooth implant can last a lifetime, making it a valuable investment in your oral health.

Dr. Douglas L. Johnson, DMD

With over 25 years of specialized experience, Dr. Johnson provides exceptional care using the latest techniques and technology.

Dr. Johnson is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who completed his education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and advanced training through fellowships at prestigious institutions. His extensive training and experience allow him to perform complex procedures with precision and care.

At our state-of-the-art facility, we prioritize your comfort and results. Dr. Johnson and his specially trained staff are committed to providing you with the highest standard of care in a welcoming environment.

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Bone Grafting for Optimal Results

Sometimes, tooth loss results in insufficient bone density to support an implant immediately. In these cases, bone grafting procedures can rebuild the necessary foundation for successful implant placement. Socket preservation performed immediately after tooth extraction maintains your bone volume and simplifies future implant placement. For patients with existing bone loss, ridge augmentation rebuilds the width and height needed for optimal implant positioning.

These preparatory procedures add time to your treatment but ensure the best possible long-term outcome for your implant. Our team will discuss whether bone grafting is necessary during your consultation and explain how it contributes to your implant’s success.

Why Choose St. Augustine Oral & Facial Surgical Center For Your Single Tooth Replacement

At our AAAHC-accredited surgical center, Dr. Johnson brings extensive training and experience to every implant procedure. As a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons and Fellow of the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, he completed a prestigious fellowship in facial cosmetics and reconstruction following his residency at the University of Florida.

Our team of certified surgical assistants and registered APRN work together to provide the highest quality care and understanding throughout your treatment. We understand that losing a tooth can be emotionally challenging, and we’re committed to restoring not just your smile, but your confidence. The investment you make in a single tooth implant pays dividends through improved oral health, enhanced confidence, and restored function. Unlike other tooth replacement options that may need replacement or adjustment over time, your properly maintained implant can serve you for life.

Caring for Your Implant Investment With St. Augustine Oral & Facial Surgical Center

Post-operative care following implant placement is crucial for optimal healing and long-term success. Our team provides detailed surgical instructions for managing any discomfort and maintaining proper oral hygiene during the healing period.Once your implant is fully integrated and your crown is placed, maintenance becomes part of your regular oral care routine. Professional cleanings and examinations allow us to monitor your implant’s health and address any concerns promptly.

Your smile is one of your most important assets, and losing even a single tooth can impact both your confidence and your oral health. Ready to explore how a dental implant can restore your missing tooth? Contact our office today online or call (904) 460-0505 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your complete smile. You can also learn more about Dr. Johnson and our experienced team who will guide you through every step of your treatment journey.

Visit Us in St. Augustine

St. Augustine Oral & Facial Surgical Center is ideally situated at 1301 Plantation Island Dr. Suite #101, St. Augustine, FL 32080, making us easily accessible for patients throughout St. Augustine and surrounding communities.