Dental Implants are the most natural looking, secure, long-lasting option when replacing missing or broken teeth. They are also the best choice to prevent bone loss.
What causes bone loss?
Our bones need pressure to remain strong. Just like bones in any part of your body, your jaw bone requires force as well. When a tooth/teeth are missing, the root of your tooth no longer signals the pressure/force of chewing, biting, smiling etc. to your jaw bone. Consequently just like the rest of your bones, the jaw bone will begin to resorb/deteriorate. The longer the tooth/teeth are missing, the weaker that bone becomes, therefore, it is imperative to replace a missing tooth/teeth as soon as possible. Dental implants are artificial teeth, anchored into your jaw bone with a titanium “root”. Over a 3-6 month period, dental implants bond with your bone to create a strong base and prevent bone loss. This process is called “osseointegration”. Essentially your body sees the titanium screw dental implant as part of your body. Once your jaw bone is completely healed and bonded, your dental implant acts just like a tooth with a root permanently. Since dental implants are anchored into your jaw like real teeth, they will send the same pressure signals to your body to keep your jaw bone strong and healthy.
Am I still a candidate for dental implants if I already have bone loss?
If a tooth/teeth have been missing for a while and significant bone loss has occurred, you may still be a candidate for dental implants. If the jaw is too weak (due to bone loss) to support dental implants, your dental surgeon may need to use a bone graft. A bone graft procedure entails the use of artificial (or animal) bone placed on top of your jaw bone to provide strength and encourage bone regrowth. It is important to remain patient, because though this process may take time it is imperative for dental implants to be successful.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are missing a tooth/teeth, have bone loss and are interested in dental implant surgery, please call 888.257.4025 to set up a consultation with Dr. Young. He has several office locations he works out of throughout Southeast Michigan.
References
- Emerson Dental. Dental Implants and Bone Loss. 3 November 2020. Found online August 19, 2021. Website: https://www.emerson-dental.com/dental-implants-and-bone-loss/
- The Burkitt Center. Will Dental Implants Stop Bone Loss? Understanding Osseointegration. Found online August 19, 2021. Website: https://www.theburkittcenter.com/post/will-dental-implants-stop-bone-loss-understanding-osseointegration
