When patients lose a permanent tooth, one of the biggest risks they face is the resulting bone loss. Patients with one or more missing permanent teeth can find it challenging to maintain their other teeth. Tooth loss can also impact the appearance of the patients face. In some cases, older patients have somewhat of an elongated face shape, giving them the appearance of missing bones. This “sunken in” appearance is quite common with bone and tooth loss.
Bone which starts to break down and resorb results in bone loss. Bone resorption takes place when the bone slowly begins to dissolve and is actually absorbed by the body. When missing teeth are not replaced, this often occurs in the jawbone. Bone resorption is slow and takes time. It is critical that patients with missing teeth replace them right away. This helps to prevent permanent bone loss. Dental implants are the most effective tooth-replacement solution currently available.
Bone Loss and Implants
Dental implants not only replace the visible portion of the tooth above the gum, but also replace the tooth’s root. They help prevent bone loss through jawbone stimulation. Implants help to maintain the structure of the patient’s jawbone and their facial structure. Implants are an excellent tooth-replacement option. They are durable and have the appearance of natural teeth. Implants are considered to be the best option and superior to alternative tooth-replacement options. Implants closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
During the implant procedure, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Though the natural healing process, the implant will fuse to the jawbone. This creates an incredibly strong foundation for the prosthetic tooth. Implants stimulate the jawbone and ultimately prevent bone loss. Other tooth-replacement options such as dentures, traditional crowns, and bridges fail to stimulate the jawbone. This eventually results in the loss of bone. Implants give patients the ability to maintain a healthy jawbone and preserve the other natural teeth in the mouth.
The failure to promptly replace missing teeth can result in weakness in the jawbone. Patients can also experience bone resorption. When a patient lacks adequate bone structure needed to support an implant, the dentist will use a bone graft. Bone is surgically placed to give the bone added strength and promote new bone growth.
Patients may need to wait a few months for the bone to successfully regenerate and provide necessary support for the implant. Patients must allow sufficient time for the bone to heal before the implant can be placed. Failure to give the bone time to heal complete can cause implant failure.
Bone loss in the jaw can change the patient’s appearance. In addition, it can have a negative impact on the patient’s oral health. Excess skin, sagging muscles, and bone resorption give patients an older appearance. The gums can also start to shrink, putting patients at an increased risk for disease.
Patients should take their tooth loss very seriously and follow up with their dentist immediately after the loss of a tooth. The dentist can evaluate if the patient is a good candidate for implants. If they do not qualify for implants, there are other treatment options which they can discuss. When missing teeth are not replaced it can cause serious complications including permanent bone loss.