Replacing a Missing Molar with a Dental Implant

If you’re missing a tooth, a dental implant can be one of the best ways to restore your smile and confidence. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like a natural tooth. The implant itself is a small titanium post that replaces the root of your missing tooth. Once it has healed, a custom crown is attached to complete your smile, giving you the function and appearance of a natural tooth. 

Why Choose a Dental Implant? 

A successful dental implant does more than fill a gap in your smile — it restores your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Here are the essential steps to ensuring a great outcome: 

• Personalized Planning: Every treatment begins with an assessment of your health, 3D x-ray of your jaw, and a discussion with Dr. Appel of your unique needs and goals.
• Precise Placement: Implants must be carefully positioned for long-term success. 
• Strong Healing Foundation: Your jawbone integrates directly with the implant for stability. 
• Natural Look: The gum tissue around the implant is contoured to blend seamlessly with your other teeth. 
• Beautiful, Custom Crown: The final crown id designed to match your smile perfectly. 

One Patient’s Journey to Replace a Lower Left Molar

One of our patients came to us with a lower left molar that had a failing root canal and decay. After discussing the options, we decided the best solution was to replace the tooth with a dental implant. 

First, we carefully removed the tooth and placed a bone graft to prepare the area for the implant. After allowing approximately three months time for bone healing, we used advanced tools including a 3D X-ray system and an intra-oral scanner to carefully plan the position of the dental implant. Using this plan, we created a 3D printed surgical guide to place the implant precisely where it needed to be — ensuring safety and optimal support for the future crown. 

The Final Steps to a New Tooth

After three months of healing, the dental implant was ready for the final restoration. We designed a custom titanium abutment and a tooth-colored zirconia crown that blended naturally with the rest of the smile. To protect the new tooth from potential damage caused by clenching or grinding, we also created a 3D-printed nightguard for added peace of mind. 

Thanks to dental implants, this patient now has a strong, beautiful tooth replacement that looks and filled like the real thing. If you’re ready to restore your smile and confidence, we are here to help every step of the way.