Dental Implants: Protecting Your Smile and Your Bone Health
Why Replacing Missing Teeth with Implants Is More Than Just Cosmetic
When a tooth is lost—whether from injury, decay, or gum disease—it’s easy to focus on the visible gap in your smile. But what many people don’t realize is that missing teeth can lead to serious changes beneath the surface, especially in your jawbone. Dental implants not only restore the look and function of your teeth—they also play a critical role in preserving the health of your bone.
What Happens to Your Jawbone When You Lose a Tooth?
Your jawbone is a living tissue that constantly renews itself, but it needs stimulation to stay strong. The roots of your teeth naturally provide this stimulation through chewing and biting. When a tooth is lost, the bone in that area no longer receives the signals it needs, which can lead to:
- Bone loss (resorption) over time
- Changes in facial structure (sunken cheeks, thinning lips)
- Shifting of surrounding teeth
- Compromised bite and oral function
In fact, research shows that as much as 25% of the bone in that area can be lost within the first year after a tooth is removed.
How Do Dental Implants Help Preserve Bone?
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that actually stimulates and supports bone health. Here’s how:
- They mimic natural tooth roots. Implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they fuse (or osseointegrate) with the bone over time. This fusion stimulates the bone just like a real tooth root would.
- They prevent bone loss. By providing ongoing stimulation, implants help stop the resorption process, keeping your bone levels stable.
- They support facial structure. With healthy bone levels preserved, your facial appearance remains more youthful and natural.
Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options
| Stimulates Bone | Long Term Bone Health | |
|---|---|---|
DENTAL IMPLANT |
|
Excellent |
DENTAL BRIDGE |
|
Bone Loss Continues |
DENTURES |
|
Accelerated bone loss without stimulation |
While bridges and dentures can restore function and appearance, they do not address the underlying bone loss, and over time, may even contribute to additional problems as the bone continues to shrink.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Most healthy adults are good candidates for dental implants. An evaluation will include:
- A review of your overall health
- A scan of your jawbone to ensure there’s enough bone for the implant
- A discussion of your goals and any questions you may have
Even if you’ve experienced bone loss, there are techniques like bone grafting that can rebuild the area and make implants possible.
The Long-Term Benefits of Dental Implants
- Stable and secure – no slipping like dentures
- Natural-looking – matches your existing teeth
- Long-lasting – often decades with proper care
- Protective – helps maintain your oral and facial health
Want to know more?
Dental implants do more than just restore your smile—they help preserve the health and strength of your jawbone for years to come. If you’re missing a tooth or facing an extraction, talk to Dr. Chisler or Dr. Vannatta about whether implants are the right choice for you.
