Tooth loss is a common oral problem that can lead to a host of unpleasant health consequences. While dentures are a popular and effective way to replace lost teeth with beautiful and functional restorations, dental implants can deliver a variety of advantages that make it easier to preserve your oral health. Here’s a quick look at how tooth loss causes jawbone atrophy, the negative effects this has on the body, and how dental implants can prevent or reverse this process.
How Does Tooth Loss Cause Jawbone Atrophy?
The bone structures supporting the teeth need regular exercise to stay healthy and strong, and they normally receive this stimulation when the teeth work against the jaw while chewing. Tooth loss will deprive the jaw of this necessary exercise, causing the section of bone that supported the tooth to gradually atrophy and recede. This can lead to a host of unpleasant issues like:
- Dental drift: The recession of the jawbone structure can pull neighboring teeth out of alignment, which can set them up for infection, injury, and loss.
- Uneven enamel erosion: Tooth loss redistributes the pressure of chewing across the dental arches, which can put excessive strain on a few teeth and damage their enamel.
- TMJ issues: The bite drifting out of alignment due to tooth loss can put unnecessary stress on the jaw, which can make it difficult for it to function properly and comfortably.
- Facial collapse: Losing many teeth can accelerate the process of jawbone atrophy and eventually leave the patient with a sunken mouth and a withered appearance.
How Can Dental Implants Prevent Jawbone Atrophy?
Traditional dentures can be a great way to replace lost teeth, but they cannot prevent jawbone atrophy since they do not stimulate the jaw during the chewing process. Dental implants, on the other hand, are surgically inserted into the jawbone and fused with its structure through the natural process of osseointegration, which allows them to function just like real teeth and provide the jaw with the exercise it needs to stay healthy and strong. This can prevent or even reverse the process of bone loss and help a patient maintain a gorgeous and functional smile.
Don’t let tooth loss lead to a wide range of oral health issues that make it difficult to be proud of your grin. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best way to replace your teeth.
About the Practice
Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz provides outstanding oral healthcare to the community of Burbank. He serves as director of the Los Angeles Institute of Esthetic Dentistry and an associate editor of Dentistry Today and is a proud member of the Academy of Osseointegration. His office offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To schedule your consultation for dental implants, contact his office online or dial (818) 558-4332.
