Can Implant Supported Dentures Help With Bone Loss?
Implant-supported dentures can help with bone loss. Traditional dentures can accelerate bone loss because they rest on the gums and don’t provide enough stimulation to the jawbone. The jawbone needs constant stimulation to maintain its shape and density. When teeth are missing, the bone will begin to resorb or break down, which can cause the face to sag and make the denture fit poorly.
Implant-supported dentures are anchored into the jawbone with dental implants, which are small titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots. The implants provide the necessary stimulation to the jawbone, which helps to maintain its shape and density. In fact, dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that can actually stimulate bone growth.
Implant Supported Dentures And Bone Loss Prevention
Bone loss often occurs after tooth loss. One way to prevent this is by choosing implant supported dentures for multiple teeth replacement. The following is a review of implant supported dentures and how it can prevent bone loss in the jaw from taking place.
What Are Implant Supported Dentures?
Implant supported dentures are a set of replacement teeth (dentures) that are positioned onto dental implants. A dental implant is a post that is placed into the jawbone, and it serves as the root of the dentures. This differs from traditional dentures, which are instead placed on and supported by the gums. The number of implants needed may vary, but it most commonly includes four, as when an entire row of missing teeth are replaced. This is done through a process known as “all-on-4 technique.”
Why Does Bone Loss Occur After Tooth Loss?
Bone loss is likely to occur once teeth are lost. This is because the primary role of the underlying bone inside the jaw is supporting teeth. When the bone is no longer attached to the root of teeth, then they lose some of their purpose, resulting in bone atrophy. Jawbone loss can make the jaw look like it is sunken in, and it can cause cosmetic concerns. Jawbone loss can also make it more challenging to place dental implants.
How Implant Supported Dentures Can Prevent Bone Loss
Implant supported dentures can prevent bone loss by restoring its purpose. With them, dental implants are placed into the jaw and go through osseointegration, meaning that they fuse together with the jaw. The abutment and replacement teeth are then attached to the dental implants, completing the restoration. This is different from traditional dentures that rest upon the gums and are less likely to prevent bone loss. Patients who have already experienced jawbone loss may need a bone grafting procedure before the dental implants are placed.
When To Choose Implant Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures offer many advantages. Most notably, they can prevent bone loss from occurring in the jaw, whereas bone loss may continue with traditional dentures or a fixed bridge. However, they do require a more invasive treatment process, so patients should be in good oral and general health and willing to go through minor surgical procedures.
By choosing implant-supported dentures, you can prevent further bone loss and preserve the overall structure of your face. In addition, implant-supported dentures are more stable and comfortable than traditional dentures, and they allow you to eat and speak more confidently.
It’s important to note that not everyone is a good candidate for implant-supported dentures. Your dentist will need to evaluate your oral health, jawbone density, and other factors to determine if implant-supported dentures are the best option for you.