Single Tooth Implants in Tega Cay, SC

Reviewed by Dr. Riddhi Patel, DMD, MD, FACS
Last updated August 2026

EXCELLENT ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 · 277 reviews Google

Unfortunately, not every tooth can be saved. When one is lost, either due to decay, injury, or extraction, the gap it leaves behind creates a chain reaction beneath the surface. Bone volume shrinks. Neighboring teeth shift. The jaw structure that supported your bite begins to change. A single tooth implant is the only replacement option that addresses all of this, because it replaces the root as well as the tooth itself.

At Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Tega Cay, SC, single tooth implants are placed by Dr. Riddhi Patel, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with memberships in the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the South Carolina Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Recognized by Incisal Edge Magazine as part of their 40 Under 40, Dr. Patel brings a detail-oriented approach to every dental implant placement she performs. We handle every step of our care with precision, and the outcome is built to last.

How a Single Tooth Implant Works

A single tooth implant replaces both the visible crown and the root beneath it, making it the only restoration option that addresses the full structure of a missing tooth. It has three components that work together as a complete unit:

Part 1

Titanium Post

A small post placed directly into the jawbone. It acts as an artificial root and bonds with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration.

Part 2

Abutment

A connector piece that attaches to the top of the post once integration is complete, providing a stable base for the crown above it.

Part 3

Custom Crown

Shaped and shaded to blend naturally with your surrounding teeth. This is the visible portion of the implant that restores your smile.

96.7–100%

success rate across multiple RCTs

One of the most clinically proven tooth replacement options available

A systematic review published on PubMed Central found that single immediate implants showed success rates of 96.7 to 100 percent across multiple randomized controlled trials. We also stand behind our work with a five-year warranty: if an implant fails, we replace it at no cost to you.

Are You a Candidate for a Single Tooth Implant?

Most healthy adults who are missing a single tooth are good candidates for this procedure. The primary requirement is enough healthy jawbone to support the implant post. During your consultation, we use CBCT imaging to evaluate your bone density and determine whether you are ready for placement.

When Bone Grafting Is Needed:

Some patients have already lost bone volume at the site of the missing tooth by the time they come in for a consultation. In those cases, you may need a bone graft before the implant is placed. A bone graft adds material to the area to build up density and give the implant a strong foundation to integrate with. This step is common and does not rule you out as a candidate.

What to Expect During the Implant Placement Process

The single tooth implant process moves through several distinct stages. Here is what to expect from start to finish:

Consultation & Imaging

CBCT imaging is used to evaluate your bone volume and overall oral health. Any prep work, such as a bone graft, is identified and planned at this stage.

Implant Placement

The titanium post is surgically placed into the jaw. Sedation options are available to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.

Healing Period

Approximately three to six months as the implant integrates fully with the bone through osseointegration, forming your permanent root.

Crown Delivery

The abutment is placed and your custom final crown is delivered, shaped and shaded to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.

We plan each appointment carefully and prepare you for what comes next at every stage. Once your implant is in place, we provide a complete set of dental implant aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.

Why Dental Implants Outperform Other Options

Bridges and partial dentures fill a visible gap, but neither replaces the root. Without a root in place, the bone beneath continues to shrink. A traditional bridge also requires crowning the two healthy teeth on either side. A single tooth implant stands on its own, preserves the bone, and leaves surrounding teeth untouched. Here is how the options compare:

	Single Tooth Implant	Traditional Bridge	Partial Denture
Replaces Root	Yes	No	No
Preserves Bone	Yes	No	No
Adjacent Teeth Affected	No	Yes — requires crowning both neighboring teeth	May affect adjacent teeth with clasps
Removable	No — permanently fixed	No — permanently fixed	Yes — removed for cleaning
Long-Term Reliability	Highest — built to last decades with proper care	Moderate — may need replacement over time	Lower — requires ongoing adjustments

Sedation Options We Offer at Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery

The thought of oral surgery makes a lot of people nervous, and that is completely understandable. We offer several sedation options so you can stay comfortable and relaxed throughout your procedure. Whether you prefer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation, we will discuss your preferences at your consultation and set you up with the option that fits best.

Understanding the Cost of Single Tooth Implants

The total cost of a single tooth implant depends on several factors, including whether you need a bone graft, the location of the missing tooth, and the type of crown you choose. We accept Delta Dental, Ameritas, Aetna, Guardian, Principal, MetLife, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Concordia, United Healthcare, and HSA/FSA funds. Cherry financing is also available, with 0% financing for up to 24 months and a high approval rate. A full breakdown of what affects the cost of a dental implant is available to help you plan before your first visit.

Your Smile Deserves a Permanent Solution at Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery

Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery is a surgical practice focused entirely on outcomes that are built to last. Dr. Patel’s board certification and professional memberships reflect a commitment to surgical standards that go well beyond what a general dental office provides. We use advanced CBCT imaging and 3D printing technology to plan and execute each case with accuracy, and we serve patients throughout Tega Cay, SC, and the surrounding communities.

If you are ready to take the next step toward a complete, natural-looking smile, contact us today to schedule your consultation. We will answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you move forward with a clear plan.