Many people choose to replace tooth with a dental implant because it feels, looks, and functions like a real tooth. This post explains why patients pick implants, what the basic procedure looks like, typical costs, and the main benefits and risks. Read on for clear next steps if you want to replace tooth with a durable, long-term option.
What a dental implant is and when you should replace tooth with one
A dental implant is a three-part system: the titanium implant (root), an abutment (connector), and a crown (the visible tooth). Together they replace the full structure of a missing tooth. When you choose to replace tooth with an implant, you restore both function and bone support rather than just filling a gap.
Implants are often recommended when:
- One tooth is missing and adjacent teeth are healthy (so you want to avoid cutting them down for a bridge).
- You need a long-term solution that preserves jawbone and bite strength.
- Standard removable dentures are uncomfortable or unstable.
Bridges can work for short spans but require altering nearby teeth. Dentures are less invasive up front but can speed bone loss and feel less natural. For many patients who want a permanent, natural-feeling result, it makes sense to replace tooth with an implant.
Dental implant procedure: step-by-step
Consultation and planning
The first step is a thorough exam. Expect X-rays or a CBCT scan to check bone, nearby roots, and sinus anatomy. Your provider will review medical history, take digital photos and scans, and create a treatment plan for the single tooth you want to replace tooth.
Good planning often includes a digital mock-up of the final crown and a timeline. This helps predict need for bone grafting or extractions before placement.
Implant placement
On surgery day the implant is placed in the jaw under local anesthesia (and optional nitrous if needed). The procedure usually takes under an hour for a single implant. After placement you’ll have a short soft-tissue healing period—most patients feel comfortable within a few days, with typical soft-tissue healing in 1–2 weeks.
Osseointegration and abutment/crown placement
Osseointegration is when bone fuses to the titanium implant. This commonly takes 3–6 months but can be shorter with modern protocols. Once the implant is stable, an abutment is attached and an impression or digital scan is taken for the final crown. With an on-site lab and CAD/CAM workflows, many practices can deliver a precisely fitted crown quickly, sometimes the same day.
Cost to replace tooth with a dental implant and what changes the price
Costs vary widely depending on clinical needs and materials. Key factors include:
- Single implant vs. multiple implants or full-arch work
- Need for bone grafting or sinus lift
- Tooth extraction or treatment of infection before placement
- Type of sedation used (local vs. nitrous or IV)
- Implant brand, abutment type, and crown material
- Provider experience and laboratory fees
Provider skill and a quality on-site lab often raise cost but lower risk of complications and improve long-term outcomes. Insurance may cover part of the crown or some related services, but many plans don’t fully cover implants. Financing options like CareCredit and other patient-friendly plans can spread the cost over time.
Benefits, risks, and next steps if you want to replace tooth
Primary benefits of choosing to replace tooth with an implant include:
- Preserves jawbone and prevents the bone shrinkage that follows tooth loss
- Feels and functions like a natural tooth for chewing and speech
- Long-term solution with high success rates when well cared for
- No need to alter adjacent healthy teeth as with a bridge
Common risks are infection, implant failure, nerve irritation, or sinus complications with upper back teeth. You can lower those risks by choosing an experienced provider, following post-op care, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding tobacco during healing.
If you want to explore whether to replace tooth with an implant, a good next step is a comprehensive consult that includes 3D imaging and a clear treatment plan. Lakeview Comprehensive Dentistry offers a relationship-centered, diagnostic-first approach with a 90-minute new-patient exam, ultra low-dose 3D imaging, digital intraoral scanning, and an on-site lab for precise, same-day restorations when appropriate. Dr. Timothy Pruett and the Lakeview team combine advanced training with patient-focused care, sedation options to reduce anxiety, and transparent financing choices like CareCredit and other plans.
To schedule a consultation and see if you’re a candidate to replace tooth with an implant, contact the practice for a full exam and personalized plan.
