Single Tooth Implants in Rapid City & Spearfish, SD

When you lose a tooth, the bone underneath it starts to shrink. It happens slowly and painlessly, so most people don’t notice until the damage is done. Meanwhile, the teeth on either side begin shifting toward the gap, your bite changes, and what started as one missing tooth quietly becomes a bigger problem.

A single tooth implant stops all of that. A small titanium post is placed in the jawbone where the root used to be. Over the following months, bone grows around it and locks it into place — your body essentially accepts the implant as part of your jaw. Once healed, a custom crown is attached that matches the shape, shade, and function of your natural teeth.

Unlike a dental bridge , a single implant doesn’t rely on the teeth next to it for support. Healthy teeth stay untouched. And because the implant replaces the root, it tells the bone to keep doing its job — which preserves your jaw structure in ways that no other option can.

At Orchard Meadows in Rapid City and Spearfish, Dr. Garner places single tooth implants in-house from start to finish. Your evaluation, 3D imaging, surgical placement, and final crown all happen with the same team. No bouncing between offices. No re-explaining your history to someone new.

What is a single tooth implant?

A single tooth implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace one missing tooth root. After the bone integrates with the implant over several months, a custom-made porcelain crown is attached. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions like the one you lost — without affecting the teeth around it.

How much does a single tooth implant cost in Rapid City, SD?

The cost of a single tooth implant varies based on the location of the missing tooth, whether bone grafting is needed beforehand, and the type of crown placed. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of implant treatment when it’s medically necessary. Financing through CareCredit is available, and patients on our in-house dental savings plan receive a discount on treatment. We provide a detailed estimate at your consultation so there are no surprises.

Does getting a dental implant hurt?

The placement itself is done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Most patients describe mild soreness afterward — similar to what you’d feel after a tooth extraction — and it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Nitrous oxide is also available if you’d like to feel more relaxed during the appointment. Dr. Garner checks in personally during recovery to make sure everything’s healing the way it should.

How long does a single tooth implant last?

The titanium implant itself can last 20 years or longer — many last a lifetime with proper care. The crown on top may eventually need replacement due to normal wear over many years, but the implant underneath typically stays stable for decades. Regular checkups  help us keep an eye on everything long-term.

How long does the single tooth implant process take?

From placement to final crown, the process typically spans three to six months. Most of that time is healing — waiting for bone to integrate with the implant. The surgical appointment itself usually takes about an hour. Once integration is confirmed through imaging, the permanent crown is placed in a separate visit.

What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?

The bone where the tooth was lost gradually shrinks without a root to stimulate it. Neighboring teeth shift toward the gap, which can change your bite and create new problems. Replacing the tooth with an implant stops bone loss, prevents shifting, and protects the long-term health of the teeth around it.