Dental Implants Can Stop Bone Loss
Losing permanent teeth as an adult is an unfortunate side effect of the aging process as bone density decreases. When the jaw bone begins to deteriorate, teeth are at risk of falling out which can quickly lead to a domino effect without proper treatment.
Can dental implants stop bone loss?
In short, yes! Dental implants are essentially an artificial tooth root. The roots of our teeth help stimulate bone regeneration, aiding in bone health and preventing resorption. Resorption is the shrinking of the bone structure and may require a bone graft to restore.
When a lost tooth is not replaced, the lack of stimulation in the bone leads to bone deterioration and eventually additional tooth loss. Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to prevent further bone loss. A bone graft can be placed to restore bone that has already been lost and is especially necessary in anticipation of an implant.
Dental implants prevent bone loss by mimicking the function and appearance of natural teeth and allow your jaw to keep its natural shape. Left untreated, the jawbone will continue to deteriorate and eventually cause changes in your facial structure. Dental implants integrate with the jawbone to stabilize both the bone and neighboring teeth. They also provide the jawbone with the continual stress and stimulation it needs to regenerate and maintain itself.
Bone simulation is not possible with a traditional bridge or denture. Both a bridge and a denture are seated above the gum tissue and do not have any parts that are implanted into the jawbone therefore they can actually contribute to further bone loss. Dental implants keep the job healthy and help maintain the structural integrity of your whole mouth.
Bone Loss In The Jaw
Loss of bone structure in the jaw can have severe consequences. When the bone begins to shrink, other healthy teeth are at risk of becoming mobile and eventually falling out. This domino effect will not stop without intervention by means of a bone graft and dental implant. Bone loss happens very quickly! Within one year, 25% of the affected jawbone can be lost.
If you are at risk of periodontal disease and therefore bone loss, it is important that you take extra care to practice proper oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and can typically be eradicated and the damages reversed if it is caught early! Without treatment, gingivitis will progress to more advanced stages of gum disease and can cause irreparable damage.
Bone cannot grow back on its own without some form of repair and stimulation. A bone graft is the best way to repair lost bone structure and dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth. Even if you are missing a significant number of teeth, you may be a candidate for an implant-supported dentures!