If you’re missing teeth, you might be thinking about dental implants. But did you know they’re not just for filling gaps in your smile? Dental implants can actually help preserve your jawbone.
What Happens When You Lose a Tooth
When a tooth is lost, whether due to injury, tooth decay, or other reasons, the bone that once supported it starts to deteriorate.
This happens due to the absence of the tooth root, which is essential for bone stimulation. Gradually, this can lead to bone loss and changes in the shape of your face.
The bone loss after tooth removal is 10 TIMES greater in the first year than subsequent years! This can mean a loss of 4-6mm of bone loss after a tooth is gone for only 1 year! So if you don’t place an immediate implant, socket grafting is offered to preserve bone for this first year until an implant can be placed.
How Dental Implants Help
Dental implants are small titanium posts that get put into your jawbone during surgery. They serve as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the bone like natural teeth. This aids in preventing bone loss and maintaining the integrity of the jaw’s structure.
Preserving Jawbone Density
By preserving jawbone density, dental implants help maintain the stability of your remaining teeth and prevent them from shifting out of place. It can also help protect your facial structure and appearance, keeping you looking younger for longer. If you don’t use it you lose it! This means that bone without stimulation becomes less dense and capable of holding on to implants.
Improved Chewing and Speaking
Dental implants not only maintain the health of the jawbone but also provide useful advantages. They help you regain your natural ability to chew and talk, so you may resume enjoying your favorite meals and speaking to others with assurance.
Preventing Shifting of Teeth
When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift or tilt into the empty space. It can lead to misalignment, bite, and dental complications. Dental implants fill the gap left by missing teeth, preventing neighboring teeth from shifting out of place.
Long-Term Solution
Dental implants provide a long-lasting solution, unlike dentures or bridges that might require replacement every few years. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective investment in your oral health.
Schedule a Dental Implants Consultation in Milwaukee, WI
Ready for more information about how dental implants can benefit your jaw health? Schedule a consultation with the team at Hampton Dental Associates in Milwaukee, WI. Call 414-464-9021 now to start getting a healthier smile.
Remember, your oral health is important, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
