Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Natasa Mandic-Kuljic, D.M.D.
May 3, 2023
Can You Get Dental Implants With Bone Loss
Have you ever wondered, "can you get dental implants with bone loss?" At Kuljic DDS & Team , we're often asked this question, and we're here to provide a comprehensive answer.
Understanding Dental Implants and Bone Loss
To comprehend the connection between dental implants and bone loss, it's essential to first understand what each entails. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made from titanium, that are surgically placed into your jawbone. They act as a sturdy base for supporting one or more artificial teeth, called crowns.
Bone loss in the jaw can occur due to various reasons, such as gum disease, tooth extraction, dentures, or aging. It poses a challenge because dental implants require a sufficient amount of healthy bone for successful placement and integration.
Can You Get Dental Implants With Bone Loss?
The simple answer is, yes, you can get dental implants with bone loss, but with a caveat. It requires a specialized procedure known as bone grafting to ensure the success of dental implant surgery.
Bone Grafting: The Solution to Bone Loss
Bone grafting is a procedure that helps regenerate bone where it's been lost. In the context of dental implants, it provides a solid foundation for the implant. We introduce a material, which can be synthetic or derived from a natural source, into the area with bone loss. This material encourages your body to rebuild its natural bone. After the graft has successfully integrated and enough new bone has been formed, we can proceed with the dental implant procedure.
Why is Bone Important in Dental Implants?
An essential part of the puzzle when considering dental implants is the role of bone health in the jaw. Why is bone so important in dental implants, you might ask? Let us break it down for you.
Support and Stability
First and foremost, the jawbone is the primary support structure for dental implants. Like a natural tooth root, a dental implant requires a secure place in the jawbone. This is where the titanium post of the implant is inserted, serving as an artificial tooth root. Once implanted, the bone begins a process called osseointegration, where it fuses with the implant to create a stable and long-lasting base for the artificial tooth (crown) that will be attached later.
Preservation of Facial Structure
The health of your jawbone not only affects the success of dental implants but also has a significant impact on your overall facial structure. When you lose a tooth, the bone that used to surround the tooth root begins to deteriorate over time—a process known as bone resorption. This can lead to changes in your facial appearance, such as a sunken look around the mouth. By placing a dental implant, we can help stimulate bone growth, preserve the existing bone, and maintain your facial structure.
Success and Longevity of Dental Implants
The quality and quantity of bone in your jaw directly impact the success rate and longevity of dental implants. With adequate bone, the dental implant can secure firmly, providing a reliable foundation for your new tooth. This solid base is crucial to withstand the forces of biting and chewing. Additionally, the stronger the bond between the implant and the bone, the longer the implant will last.
Promotes a Healthy Oral Environment
A healthy jawbone also helps maintain a healthy oral environment. By preventing bone loss, dental implants can help preserve the health of surrounding teeth and gum tissues, reducing the risk of further tooth loss and gum disease.
In conclusion, the bone in your jaw plays a crucial role in the success of dental implants. If bone loss is a concern, there are solutions available, such as bone grafting, to ensure you can still benefit from the advantages of dental implants. Our team is here to guide you on your journey towards a healthier, brighter smile.
The Process At Kuljic DDS & Team
At Kuljic DDS & Team, we conduct an extensive assessment of your oral health before proceeding with any treatment plan. If bone loss is an issue, we'll guide you through the bone grafting process and ensure you're comfortable with each step of the treatment.
We use cutting-edge technology to assess the extent of bone loss and to monitor the success of bone grafting. This allows us to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients who require dental implants but are dealing with bone loss.
Restoring Your Smile at Our Dental Practice
Whether you're looking to replace a single missing tooth or require a full-mouth restoration, we're here to help. Even if you've experienced bone loss, dental implants remain a viable option thanks to advancements in dental technology like bone grafting.
If you've been wondering, "Can you get dental implants with bone loss?", the answer is a resounding yes. Don't let bone loss deter you from restoring your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.