If you have lost a significant number of teeth, you should certainly consider your options for rebuilding your smile. Dentures are a popular treatment because they are cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. However, they come with some notable disadvantages, one of which is their inability to aid in jawbone preservation. Let’s discuss why that is so and why dental implants in Edison are a superior tooth replacement solution.
How Tooth Loss Leads to Bone Loss
“Use it or lose it” is a principle that applies to the jawbone. When all of your natural teeth are in place, their roots stimulate the jawbone. The forces exerted when you chew and bite also help to keep the bone strong and whole. However, when the roots of teeth go missing, that stimulation disappears.
Since the human body is a very efficient creation, it begins to resorb the bone tissue that used to support your teeth. The bone loss occurs quite quickly. In fact, according to one study published in the Indian Journal of Dentistry, up to 25% of the bone around the site of a missing tooth may be lost in the first year following an extraction.
Dentures Do Some Things Well
Dentures are an economical solution, for missing teeth. Traditional dentures consist of a row of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base. The base is secured on the gums with the help of natural suction or a mild adhesive. Dentures do nothing to replace the roots of lost teeth; they replace only the tops of teeth. They do not provide the jawbone with the stimulation it needs to remain whole and strong. Some research even indicates that dentures can increase the rate of bone deterioration. It is best to consult with a prosthodontist in Edison to receive the best recommendation for your specific case.
Dental Implants Are the Better Choice
Dental implants are small titanium cylinders that serve as prosthetic tooth roots. They support crowns, bridges, or dentures that replace the visible portion of lost teeth. Just a few dental implants can serve as the base for an entire arch of replacement teeth and provide the jawbone with the stimulation it needs to retain its volume and mass. They may even be able to reverse bone loss that has already occurred.
Clearly, the bone health benefits of dental implants alone make them a worthwhile investment. But their advantages over traditional dentures do not stop there. Some of their additional benefits include:
- Stability. Dental implants are sturdy enough to stand up to virtually any food.
- Longevity. Traditional dentures usually need to be replaced every 5 – 8 years. Implant-supported teeth tend to last for much longer.
- Comfort. Many patients find that implant-supported prosthetics feel more natural than traditional dentures.
Are you concerned about bone loss after tooth loss? Dental implants may be the ideal treatment for you!
About the Author
Dr. Vrajesh Shah is a prosthodontist and dental implant expert in Edison. He is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and he possesses the knowledge and experience necessary to handle even complex cases. To learn how Dr. Shah may be able to help you prevent bone loss in your jaw via dental implants, contact our practice at 732-906-0077.