Understanding How Dental Implants Preserve Bone Health
If you are missing one or more teeth and have been looking into replacement options, by now you know that you have plenty to consider. At Carmel Mountain Ranch Dental Care, we pride ourselves on our informative, caring approach to restorative dentistry. Since bone resorption is a common issue after tooth loss, we often recommend dental implants as a reliable replacement option because they help preserve the health of your bone. Here are a few facts about implants and unique benefits that they provide for your overall health and your jaw bone:
The Strength Of Your Jaw Depends On The Roots Of Your Teeth
Your jaw and your teeth are closely integrated, and healthy teeth will help protect the strength of your jaw bone. The roots of your teeth transmit pressure into your jaw when you bite, chew and smile. This, in turn, helps stimulate the bone and gum tissue and keeps them strong. If you lose your tooth, this pressure is no longer transmitted to your gums and your jaw, which results in “bone resorption.” Because your jaw bone is no longer being stimulated, some of its mass will start to slowly disappear. Over time, this will weaken your jaw, and may even affect your facial structure.
Dental Implants Are Artificial Tooth Roots That Prevents Bone Loss
Dental implants are built out of titanium and are surgically inserted directly into the jaw bone where your missing tooth used to be. As your gums and jaw heal, the titanium goes through the process of “osseointegration” and bonds permanently to the surrounding tissue. When a restoration (typically a dental crown) is placed on the dental implant, it transmits force and pressure into the jaw, just like a natural tooth would. In turn, this stimulates the underlying tissue and encourages a stronger jaw, which prevents resorption of bone tissue.
Alternative Treatments Won’t Preserve Your Bone Structure
Partial dentures and dental bridges are preferable to non-treatment of a missing tooth. This is because these prostheses help treat other issues related to missing teeth, like uneven bite pressure and teeth shifting toward the empty socket. They also help restore the aesthetics of your smile.However, neither a bridge or a denture will transmit force into your gum and jaw bone. This means that, over time, your jaw will still become weaker due to bone resorption. If preserving your jaw bone is a priority for you, a dental implant may be the best choice for you. It is best to have your implant placed as soon as you can after you lose a tooth to help preserve as much jaw tissue as possible.
Want To Learn More? Schedule An Appointment!
At Carmel Mountain Ranch Dental Care, Dr. Carpenter specializes in the placement of dental implants. We can help you learn more about your restorative options and answer any questions you may have about the process. To get started, give us a call at (858) 487-6453, or stop by our office at 12075 Carmel Mountain Rd, Suite 210 San Diego, CA 92128. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
