Yes, dental implants can stop bone loss. However, it’s important that you consult with our East Grand Rapids, MI, dental implant dentist right away. As soon as you lose a tooth, your body may start to absorb the minerals in your jaw to use elsewhere. Over time, you’ll lose bone density in your jaw and may experience discomfort when trying to chew or wear dentures. You may also notice your facial profile start to change and appear more sunken.
In general, the best solution for tooth loss is dental implant treatment. Unlike other tooth replacement options, only the has the potential to last the rest of your life. Likewise, it’s the only treatment option that preserves bone density in the jaw after you lose a tooth.
Here’s what else you need to know about titanium dental implants.
How Does a Dental Implant Work?
A is a prosthetic tooth root that’s often made out of a titanium alloy. When placed in the jawbone, it’ll start to fuse to the surrounding tissue during a process called osseointegration.
Once the tooth implant forges a strong connection with your jawbone, it’ll be ready to support an abutment and crown. Together, the implant, abutment, and crown give you the full function and appearance of a natural tooth.
Dental Implants Can:
Replace the Function of Tooth Roots
Your natural teeth are supported by their roots, the jawbone, surrounding gums, and other teeth in the mouth. However, when you lose a tooth, you also lose its root. Not to mention, the body will absorb the minerals in the jawbone surrounding the empty socket and the gums may start to recede. This is a recipe for future tooth loss and other oral health issues.
The job of a titanium dental implant is to replace the function of the natural tooth root. Not only does this provide a solid foundation for the abutment and crown, but it exerts pressure on the jawbone. This tells the body that the bone around the empty socket is still in use and needs to be left intact.
Support Any Remaining Teeth
If your remaining teeth don’t have proper support, they’ll start to drift toward the open space left by the empty socket. This can result in crooked and/or crowded teeth, as well as a misaligned bite. By replacing a tooth with a dental implant, your other teeth will remain in their original positions and you’ll greatly reduce your risk of further tooth and bone loss. It’s a win-win!
Work for a Range of Smiles
Most adults with fully developed jaws who are missing at least one tooth are potential candidates for single-tooth dental implants. Whether the tooth was lost due to injury, decay, or infection, with an implant helps preserve bone and maintain proper alignment. Unlike bridges, dental implants stand on their own and do not affect healthy neighboring teeth.
Many patients are surprised to learn that even significant bone loss does not automatically rule out getting a dental implant. While bone health certainly plays a role, it is rarely a dealbreaker. If bone density or volume is insufficient, dental bone grafting may be recommended. Bone grafting before dental implant placement allows the jawbone to rebuild and better support the incoming post.
Why Is Replacing a Tooth Important?
If you’re considering this option for your smile, the best place to start is a consultation with our local dental implant dentist. We’re experienced in implant dentistry, can evaluate your eligibility for the procedure, and would be happy to walk you through what to expect during and after oral surgery.
Tooth replacement doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right information and expert care, single-tooth replacement or full arch restoration can be more comfortable and predictable than you might think.
Book a Dental Implant Consultation
Are you ready to take the next step? Our dental implant dentist in East Grand Rapids, MI, is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, please call the dental office of Richard Elias III, DDS at (616) 458-2048. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.
