[Single tooth replacement with an implant. Possibilities and limitations]

Implant treatment in case of a single missing tooth can potentially lead to a well functioning and aesthetically pleasing single crown on an implant. However, in order to achieve an optimal treatment result, a long road has to be travelled since usually resorption defects have to be repaired and soft tissue corrections are frequently necessary. This paper provides information regarding commonly observed situations and their consequences for the prognosis of implant treatment. It is concluded that a single tooth implant can be an elegant solution, though not an easy one. It requires a high degree of experience and surgical and prosthetic capabilities of the dentist. The natural situation can only be mimicked if all stages of treatment are adequately planned and conducted and if no major complications occur in the process. To prevent disappointments, both dentist and patient should be well aware of all conditions required for an optimal result.