Patients who are missing teeth can find an effective, permanent tooth replacement solution with dental implants. These fixtures can restore oral function as well as enhance your smile’s appearance.
Implants can also treat bone loss in the jaw and encourage bone regeneration. Dr. Justin Deckard, a dentist in Washington, DC, describes how dental implants can positively impact jawbone health.
What Happens to Jawbone After Tooth Loss?
The root of your tooth extends below your gums and into your jaw. It stimulates the jawbone to keep it healthy.
When this tooth root is absent due to tooth loss, the bone deteriorates without this stimulation. Loss of bone in the jaw can weaken your facial structure and cause the appearance of sagging in the face.
You may notice a decreased ability to eat or speak normally with tooth loss too. If you are missing teeth, you also risk further damage to your remaining teeth due to shifting and increased wear and tear.
How Do Dental Implants Help Jawbone?
A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jaw for optimal and permanent support. Once this heals, a dentist secures a prosthetic tooth or crown to an abutment attached to this post above the gumline.
The implant restores oral capabilities, and the post replaces the missing tooth root. With this simulation, the jawbone is stimulated once more and will no longer deteriorate. The implant can also influence the jawbone to regenerate any bone that was lost due while the tooth was missing.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
A dental implant requires a solid foundation in the jaw in order for the titanium post to be secure. If too much jawbone has already deteriorated due to tooth loss, you might not be able to support a dental implant.
If this is the case, your dentist may recommend a bone graft to create more structure and support in the jaw that may sustain a dental implant once healed. Your dentist might also suggest alternative tooth replacement treatment.
Your dentist can evaluate your jawbone structure with imaging technology. You can discuss restorative dental treatment with your dental professional during a scheduled consultation.
Dental Implants and More in Washington, DC
DC Precision Dentistry offers dental implants as well as other tooth-replacement treatments to patients in Washington, DC. Dr. Deckard also specializes in restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 202.851.7554.