If you’ve experienced extensive tooth loss in one or both arches, dentures are a convenient and affordable solution to rebuild your smile. Supported by generations of success, dentures can restore a beautiful, functional smile; however, there’s one thing they can’t do. A denture only recreates the portions of your teeth visible above the gum line. As a result, they can’t stop bone loss associated with missing teeth. There is only 1 treatment capable of preserving your jawbone. A dental implant in Marietta, OH replicates the entire tooth structure from the root up. Here’s how you can safeguard your jawbone’s density with an implant denture.
Bone Loss from Missing Teeth
Every tooth is essential for your oral health. Losing even one causes your jawbone to slowly deteriorate because it isn’t being stimulated by the root. You can lose as much as 25% of your bone within the first year of a lost tooth. If you’re missing several teeth, you might be at risk of losing significant bone density.
A denture is the most traditional option to replace a full arch of teeth. An acrylic base holds prosthetic teeth, which rest on top of the gum tissue using suction or an adhesive. Although it allows you to chew, speak, and smile confidently, it won’t do anything for jawbone preservation.
An implant denture differs from the traditional method because it goes a step further to replace the roots. An average of 4 to 10 titanium posts are strategically placed into your bone to serve as roots. They will stimulate your jaw to encourage new growth. Your bone will fuse to the posts through a process called osseointegration. After your bone has healed, you’ll have a stable foundation for your denture while also keeping your jaw strong and healthy.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
When compared to a traditional denture, using dental implants to support your new teeth offers a variety of advantages, such as:
- Over a 95% success rate.
- Looks and feels natural.
- Eliminates slipping and irritation.
- Regain as much as 70% of your biting force.
- Preserves your jawbone.
- Improves oral health.
- Long-term, cost-effective solution.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Your dental implant specialist in Marietta, OH will perform a thorough consultation to ensure you’re a candidate for the treatment. They’ll review a CT scan to make sure your jaw can support the posts. If you’ve lost too much bone, you can still benefit from dental implants. Bone grafting will enhance the thickness of your jaw to ensure the success of your new smile.
If you’re ready to invest in the next best thing to your real teeth, ask your dentist about adding the stability of dental implants to your smile.
About Dr. Jeff Lee
Dr. Lee earned his dental degree at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and continued his training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He has the experience and qualifications you can trust to treat advanced issues, like tooth loss. Contact our office today to see if you’re a candidate for an implant denture.