The Impact of Dental Implants on Your Jawbone

What Is Bone Resorption, And What Causes It? ‍

Bone resorption is a common issue that occurs after tooth loss. When the root of the tooth is removed, the gum and the jaw tissue no longer receive stimulation from the pressure of chewing, biting, smiling, and other daily activities.

Just like any other part of your body, the bone in your jaw requires pressure and stimulation to stay strong. So, in turn, tooth loss causes the bone to deteriorate or “resorb."

Unfortunately, this process cannot be halted by replacing a tooth with a denture or a bridge. Although dentures and bridges will prevent other issues, such as teeth shifting toward the empty socket, they do not place any pressure on the gum or jaw and do not stimulate the jawbone in a way that will prevent resorption. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that have the ability to prevent bone resorption.‍

How Soon Does Resorption Start After I Lose A Tooth?‍

This depends on a number of different factors, including your age, oral health, and the strength and density of your jaw bone. However, patients usually lose about 25% of the bone mass in the empty area during the first year after tooth loss.

For this reason, we recommend having a dental implant placed as soon as you can after you lose a tooth. The sooner you have your implant placed, the stronger your bone will be. Most dentists recommend having an implant placed immediately after your gums have healed from the extraction process, to ensure that your jaw remains healthy.

Eventually, if your bone loses enough mass, you may need a treatment like a sinus lift or bone graft to strengthen the jaw bone sufficiently before having an implant placed.‍

The Benefits Of Dental Implants – Preserving And Regenerating The Jawbone‍

Dental implants are the only way to prevent the resorption of the jawbone and encourage the strengthening and regeneration of jaw tissue. This is because dental implants use a two-part design, with a small, screw-shaped titanium post that functions as an artificial tooth root.

When a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, the replacement tooth transmits bite forces into the gum and jaw tissue, just like a natural root would. In turn, this preserves the jaw bone and even can help it regenerate after minor resorption.‍

Want To Learn More? Come To The Allen Oral Surgery & Implant Center Today! ‍

If you one or more missing teeth and you are looking for replacement options, a dental implant may be right for you. To find out more about implants and other options for restoring your smile, schedule an appointment with Dr. Allen. To get started, give us a call at (270) 842-0166, or come to our office at 1716 Ashley Circle Bowling Green KY 42104.