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:

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:

When Can Dental Implants Lead to Bone Loss?

Although rare, dental implants with bone loss can be seen in the following situations:

Peri-implantitis

Sometimes, one might have to opt for non-surgical or surgical interventions to prevent this.

Poor Implant Placement

Insufficient Bone Density

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:

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