How Bone Loss Impacts Dental Implants

When looking to replace your missing teeth, consider dental implants from our Portland dental office. Since we surgically place dental implants, they are the most secure and durable way to replace missing teeth. All other solutions require hooks, clasps and relying on the surrounding teeth. Dental implants are the only option held in place using your jawbone.

Dental Implants and Bone Density

Since we secure the implant to the jawbone, the bone itself needs to have a certain level of density. In some cases, the jawbone can lose that density too quickly. When one first loses a tooth, the body will begin to leach the calcium from that area of the jaw for other areas in the body; known as the process of resorption. The process of resorption occurs because the body is no longer receiving stimulation from the teeth.

The stimulation signals the brain that the jawbone is fulfilling its duty to support the teeth. Without the stimulation, the jawbone can lose up to 25 percent of its density within the first year alone. The loss is significant and can make it harder to replace teeth going forward. We recommend that people visit us for implants immediately after losing a tooth.

Dental Implants and Dental Examinations

When visiting for an examination, we will take X-rays and determine whether or not the patient has enough density for dental implants. If one does not, there are several options to consider. There are specific procedures that partially restore the jawbone. Another solution involves placing smaller implants, known as mini dental implants. With mini-dental implants, the titanium post is not long and therefore, requires less density for placement.

For those with complete tooth loss, there is another option that is somewhat of a denture/implant hybrid. In this procedure, an impression is taken of your mouth so the dental lab can make a full set of teeth and secure those teeth to a gum-like base, just like they would when creating dentures. The difference is that this replacement set of teeth is then held in place using just a few implants. The stability of your new set of teeth will be incredible, and you will not need to worry about them falling out like you would with dentures.

Replacing Missing Teeth

All three of these solutions are excellent ways to replace teeth, and they all use dental implants technology. As a result, you can enjoy eating your favorite foods, smiling with a full set of teeth, and speaking clearly. You do not need to compromise on the quality and convenience of your prosthetic when visiting our Portland dental office. We will work with you to identify the best way to replace your missing teeth and will go over all the options available to you when you come in. Just keep in mind that while dental implants are the best long-term solution, it will take several appointments to complete the process. We can provide you with a solution that can potentially last a lifetime.