There are few instances in which implants are used. One is to restore a single space, and another is to help stabilize dentures. An implant as a single tooth replacement option has many benefits. It is essentially a “screw” placed in the bone, on to which a crown is fitted to replace a space where a tooth is missing. It essentially acts like a natural tooth, and allows the patient to function normally while easily keeping the area clean. In the denture stabilization method, a number of implants are placed in the bone and a denture is custom fitted to attach to these implants. It helps to keep the dentures in place, and offers a patient more function and security.

Depending on the location of the missing tooth, there are generally three options for replacing a tooth. One option is an implant. This is a great way to replace a space without disrupting the adjacent teeth. Another options is a bridge. This is similar to a crown, in which the teeth adjacent to the space are prepared and then a bridge is fabricated that involves three teeth, the space and the two adjacent. It is cemented in and restores function while closing the space. The third option is called a partial denture. It is basically a removable retainer with a fake tooth on it that is placed in the space.