Dental implants are often used for important long-term oral health preservation, and there are several ways they offer benefits here. One great example is the way dental implants prevent bone loss and maintain jaw and oral structure – how do dental implants accomplish these important tasks?
At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer unmatched dental implant services to clients around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Here are some basics on dental implants and bone loss, plus how dental implants help limit these risks while maintaining optimal jaw structure.
How the Facial Structure Changes Without Tooth Roots
To fully understand dental implants and bone loss prevention, it’s important to first have a basic grasp of how bone loss can take place to begin with. This process often surrounds the loss of teeth and resulting issues.
Specifically, lost teeth no longer stimulate the jawbone, which can cause it to resorb or shrink. Without this stimulation, the jawbone begins to lose its density and strength over time, resulting in a change in facial structure. In fact, for every missing tooth root, approximately 25% of supporting bone is lost within the first year alone.
How Dental Implants Stimulate the Jawbone
Dental implants play a vital role in avoiding the issue we just described: They act as a stand-in for the missing tooth or teeth, stimulating the jawbone and preventing it from resorbing. This is because dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, just like natural teeth.
As a result, they provide the same level of stimulation as a tooth root, keeping the bone healthy and strong. This not only helps maintain facial structure but also prevents other dental problems such as shifting teeth or bite issues.
Moreover, dental implants are made of biocompatible materials that fuse with the surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. This makes them a permanent solution for missing teeth, unlike dentures or bridges which may need to be replaced periodically.
Other Long-Term Aesthetic and Health Benefits of Dental Implants
In addition to helping prevent bone loss and maintaining jaw structure, dental implants can also improve your overall oral health in the long-term. Since they are placed directly into the jawbone, they provide stability and support for surrounding teeth, reducing the risk of shifting or displacement.
Moreover, dental implants do not require any alteration or damage to adjacent teeth, unlike bridges which may require grinding down healthy teeth to support them. This helps preserve the natural structure of your remaining teeth and maintain a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
In terms of aesthetics, dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. This can greatly improve one’s self-confidence and quality of life.
Stability and Function Benefits of Dental Implants
Furthermore, dental implants provide significant stability and functionality. Unlike dentures, which can slip or shift in the mouth, implants are securely anchored in the jawbone. This allows for a more natural chewing and speaking experience, without fear of embarrassment or discomfort.
Moreover, implant-supported dentures or bridges can greatly improve the ability to bite and chew food properly. With strong and stable support from dental implants, individuals can enjoy a wider variety of foods without restrictions.
Importance of Quality Dental Implant Services
Whether you’re looking to dental implants for bone loss prevention, aesthetics, stability or any combination therein, it’s vital to choose a reputable and experienced dental implant provider. Quality dental implant services can make all the difference in the success and longevity of your implants.
First and foremost, an experienced dental professional will have the necessary knowledge and expertise to properly assess your unique situation and determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. They will take into consideration factors such as bone density, overall oral health, and any pre-existing conditions that may affect the success of the implants.
Additionally, a skilled dentist will use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure that your dental implants are placed correctly and securely. Improper placement can lead to complications such as infection or implant failure, which can be both costly and uncomfortable.
At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to offer the best dental implant services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Our dentists have years of experience with dental implant solutions, and we’ll ensure your implants are ideally suited for your needs. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!