Dental implants are widely accept as a solution for individuals with missing teeth. They provide a long-lasting solution that mimics the appearance and function of a natural tooth. However, concerns about bone loss often arise when considering dental implants.
Many wonder if the use of implants can worsen existing bone loss. In this article, we’ll explain the potential connection of dental implants with bone loss and bone health and how bone loss can be prevent.
Understanding Dental Implants and Bone Loss
Let us understand the effects of bone loss and dental implant.
Bone Loss After Tooth Loss
The loosening of teeth leads to a process known as bone resorption. It naturally occurs in the body when the absence of a tooth renders the bone non-functional. However, the tooth root does not stimulate the jawbone, resulting in a constant reduction in the bone mass.
If all the teeth are not replace, the bone continues to disintegrate. A functional jawbone is need for active chewing and biting.
Can Dental Implants Cause Bone Loss?
It is a myth that if you have bone loss in your mouth, you cannot get dental implant. Additionally, there is a misconception that dental implants cause bone loss. On the contrary, dental implants actually prevent the reduction of bone mass. Here’s why:
- Osseointegration: The process of making dental implants effective is known as osseointegration. Implants are made of titanium, and this metal attaches to the jawbone. Over months, the strength of the implant-bone surface increases, stimulating bone growth and preventing bone loss.
- Preserving Bone Structure: Implants are screwed into the bone, while conventional prosthetics rest on the gums. This helps prevent bone loss and maintains the structure of the bone in the long run.
Research has found that the success rate of implants is around 90-95%.
How Dental Implants Combat Bone Loss?
The implant functions like a tooth root, leading to minimal or no bone loss with dental implants. Here are the key ways implants protect your jawbone from deteriorating:
- Stimulation of the Jawbone: The biting forces through the implant apply pressure to the jawbone, where the bone cells are produce. This stimulation helps the bone grow and prevents it from breaking down, as is usually the norm.
- Long-Term Stability: Implants can last long, provided they are well maintain. Thus, they provide long-term stability, leading to the preservation of a healthy jaw.
When Can Dental Implants Lead to Bone Loss?
Although rare, dental implants with bone loss can be seen in the following situations:
Peri-implantitis
- Peri-implantitis is a serious disease where the tissues surrounding the implant become infected and inflamed.
- This can lead to tooth implant bone loss in surrounding areas.
- Habits such as brushing and flossing your teeth and routine check-ups with your dentist can prevent this.
Sometimes, one might have to opt for non-surgical or surgical interventions to prevent this.
Poor Implant Placement
- There are cases where implants are improperly aligned.
- When a person has already suffered bone atrophy, the implant may not obtain stable osseointegration. This can result in implant loosening, and in extreme cases, more bone resorption can occur.
- The implant-bone interface may be overload, leading to dental implants with bone loss.
Insufficient Bone Density
- Insufficient bone density is a common issue for some individuals prior to receiving dental implants.
- Significant bone loss may already be present, necessitating additional procedures such as bone grafting to establish a strong foundation for the implant.
- The risk of implant failure increases if low bone density is not address, as weakened bone may not adequately support the implant, potentially resulting in further bone loss over time.
How Can You Prevent Bone Loss with Dental Implants?
Dental implants generally prevent bone loss. However, it’s crucial to take certain steps to ensure your implants last and keep your jawbone healthy. Take the following measures to get the best out of your dental implants:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene includes brushing teeth and interdental cleaning. It will help minimize bacteria accumulation and, therefore, peri-implantitis.
- Regular Dental Checkups: It is recommended to see your dentist regularly for follow-up examinations of your implants and the tissues that support them.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking hinders healing. This can lead to a higher rate of implant failure.
- Early Intervention: Even when experiencing the slightest signs of infection or discomfort, consult your dentist for an early intervention.
Bone Grafting: A Solution for Existing Bone Loss
If you have significant bone loss, there might not be enough bone to support a dental implant. Your dentist might suggest a bone graft in certain circumstances.
This procedure involves adding bone material—either from your own body or artificial sources—to strengthen the jawbone. Although this can extend the treatment timeline, bone grafting boasts a high success rate of over 95%.
This contributes to the overall success rate of dental implants, typically about 98% over the long term. The added stability from bone grafting ensures better support for the implant and long-lasting results.
Conclusion
Remember that dental implants with bone loss can be prevented. Rather than causing the problem, they actually help maintain bone density. By mimicking the function of a natural tooth root, dental implants provide the necessary stimulation to the jawbone, which is crucial in preventing the bone loss that often occurs after tooth extraction.
However, proper placement and care during and after the procedure are crucial for long-term success. With the right attention, dental implants can provide a lasting, convenient solution for missing teeth.
Spring Creek Dental can provide comprehensive dental services to you and your family. Our professionals will guide you through the entire process, from consultation to post-op check-ups.
Schedule an appointment today to learn more!
Our address: 422 2nd Street Hudson, WI 54016
Phone: (715) 381-9710