If you’re missing several or all of your teeth, as time goes on, you may notice your facial structure begins to change and your existing teeth gradually shift out of place. As you consider your restorative options, like traditional dentures, bridges, and dental implants, it may feel overwhelming weighing out the pros and cons and making a decision. The key trait that you’re looking for in a restorative procedure that will provide you with the most long-term benefits is prevention of jawbone deterioration, but what treatment can offer that? Read on to learn whether dentures can prevent bone loss and maintain your dental alignment.
Why Do Missing Teeth Cause Bone Loss?
Bone loss is one of the most impactful side-effects of missing teeth that gradually occurs over time. Whether you’re missing one or all of your teeth, because there are no longer roots beneath the gums that are providing necessary blood flow to your jawbone, it can cause it to erode. This is because the body notices that the structure is no longer necessary to support the teeth. As time goes on, this can cause your facial structure to change, including making your cheeks appear more concaved. Having gaps in your smile can also cause existing teeth to shift, possibly creating a bite problem that could lead to TMJ dysfunction.
Can Dentures Prevent Bone Loss?
In order to prevent bone loss, you’ll need to restore the root structure of missing teeth to provide necessary blood flow and stimulation to the jawbone. Unfortunately, traditional dentures only restore the visible portion of teeth and sit atop the gumline; however, dental implants are able to rebuild the entire structure of teeth from the roots upward to prevent bone erosion, all while providing a strong and unwavering foundation for your restorations to be attached to.
What Makes Dental Implants Special?
The key to unlocking all of the unique benefits that dental implants offer is a naturally occurring process called osseointegration. The implants are made from titanium, which is a biocompatible material that’s able to naturally fuse with the jawbone over the course of three to six months after the implants are surgically placed. This vital process sets dental implants apart from traditional restorative treatments because it’s not just focused on aesthetics—it’s also able to rebuild the structural part of teeth to prevent facial changes, stop jawbone erosion, and make your replacement teeth feel and look completely natural.
Although implant dentures have a higher up-front cost, they’re able to offer priceless, life-changing benefits that have made them one of the most popular tooth replacement treatments for patients. If you would like to preserve your facial structure and bone density, dental implants are the only restorative treatment that can help!
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has over 10 years of experience practicing dentistry and is dedicated to keeping up with the latest advancements in his field. He partners with trusted specialists in the area to offer top-tier tooth replacement treatments like dental implants that provide his patients with the most day-to-day and long-term benefits. For questions or to schedule a consultation to learn whether you’re a candidate for this treatment, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur’s website or call 972-546-4114.