What is a Single Tooth Implant?
A single tooth implant replaces a missing tooth using an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium or titanium alloy.
- The implant is inserted into the jawbone, where it integrates over time through osseointegration.
- An abutment connects the implant to a custom-made crown designed to fit your bite and match the colour of your surrounding teeth.
- Unlike bridges, single tooth implants do not rely on nearby teeth for support.
Note: In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be required before an implant can be placed.
Why should I replace missing teeth?
Leaving a tooth missing can impact dental health in several ways:
- Jawbone Health: Tooth loss can affect the jawbone’s structure, sometimes resulting in reduced bone volume over time.
- Tooth Alignment: Surrounding teeth can shift, potentially affecting your bite.
- Oral Hygiene: Gaps can accumulate food and bacteria, increasing gum disease risk.
A dental professional can help you explore options that maintain oral health and support adjacent teeth.
Who is a good candidate for a single tooth implant?
Eligibility depends on several factors:
- Jawbone Density: Sufficient bone is needed to support the implant; bone grafting may be recommended if needed.
- Oral Health: Healthy gums and absence of active gum disease
- Sinus Considerations: Upper jaw implants may require an assessment of your sinus.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking can affect healing, so quitting is advised.
- Commitment to Care: Daily oral hygiene and regular check-ups are important for long-term results.
A consultation will allow a dental professional to evaluate your suitability and discuss any procedures that can prepare you for single tooth implants.
How do single tooth implants compare to other options?
| Feature | Single Tooth Implant | Dental Bridge | Dentures |
| Reliance on adjacent teeth | No | Yes, may require filing | No |
| Jawbone stimulation | Yes | No | No |
| Maintenance | Regular oral hygiene | Care for the bridge and supporting teeth | Requires adhesives and cleaning |
| Longevity | Can last decades | May need replacement over time | Regular adjustments and replacement |
Important: Outcomes vary depending on individual circumstances. Clinical suitability must be assessed by a dental professional.
What does the procedure involve?
Knowing what to expect during a dental implant treatment can make the process clearer.
There are typically four stages involved:
Initial Consultation and Assessment
- Review medical and dental history
- Take 3D scans of the jawbone
- Develop a personalised treatment plan
Implant Placement Surgery
- Implant inserted into the jawbone under local anaesthesia or in-house sedation
- Healing period begins
Healing and Osseointegration
- Implant fuses with jawbone, usually over several months
- Follow-up visits monitor progress
Abutment and Crown Placement
- Abutment connects the implant to the crown
- Custom-made crown completes restoration
Recovery note: Swelling and mild discomfort may occur; soft foods and good oral hygiene support healing. Recovery times vary depending on individual health factors.
Are there any potential risks?
Your dental professional will discuss these risks and provide full guidance on managing them.
While dental implants are widely used, some risks exist:
- Infection at the implant site
- Nerve-related numbness or tingling
- Sinus complications for upper jaw implants
- Implant failure in rare cases
Cost of single tooth implants in Australia
FoX Implant Centre can guide you through payment choices, including Super Fund access, TLC and Humm, to help you manage your dental care expenses.
Costs will vary depending on:
- Complexity of the procedure
- Need for additional procedures (e.g., bone grafting)
- Materials used
Exploring your tooth replacement options? Let’s talk
If you’re unsure about dental implants, our FoX Implant Centre team can guide you through what’s involved.
We’ll review your oral health, explain available solutions and provide clarity on the process.
Every stage of the treatment, from initial assessment to final restoration, is handled in-house by the same team for consistent, coordinated care.
Book a consultation to discuss your situation and learn more.
FAQ
The cost of a single dental implant typically ranges between $3,000 – $7,500 AUD, and varies depending on your individual needs. During a consultation, your dentist will assess your oral health, review any X-rays or scans and discuss whether additional procedures might be required.
A single dental implant is designed as a long-term solution. With regular dental care and check-ups, the implant post can function for 15 to 25 years or more. The dental crown, which sits on the implant, may require replacement over time due to normal wear. Ultimately, how long it lasts varies based on oral health, lifestyle and maintenance.
Local anaesthesia is used during the procedure, which means the implant site is numbed. Afterwards, you may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising, which can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. In-house sedation is also available if recommended by your dental professional. Ultimately, following your aftercare instructions will help to support a smoother recovery.
Healing is gradual and varies per individual. Key stages include:
- Osseointegration: The implant fuses with the jawbone, typically over 3 to 6 months.
- Abutment and crown placement: Once healing is sufficient, the connector and crown are added, which may require additional healing time.
During recovery, maintain recommended oral hygiene and attend scheduled check-ups. Smoking, alcohol and certain medications can influence healing times.
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