How Implants Prevent Bone Loss
Woodland, CA
 A dental implant is a tooth root replacement that provides a durable solution for missing teeth, whether for a single tooth implant or multiple tooth implant. It is essentially a screw-like titanium post that is surgically inserted into the missing tooth socket in order to act as a robust foundation for an artificial tooth.
If tooth loss is left untreated, it can eventually lead to jawbone loss. An implant stimulates the jawbone and allows it to grow. Permanent implants restore your bite force and keep your jawbone healthy.
Types of Dental Implants
There are three common kinds of dental implants that you can select:
Endosteal Implants
These are the most preferred type of implants as they are suitable for most patients. However, in order to receive endosteal implants, your jawbone must be strong and healthy enough.
Endosteal implants are placeholder posts that appear like screws. They are inserted into the jawbone and then covered with a replacement tooth.
The dental implant procedure typically takes some time to heal. The implant gradually becomes permanent as it fuses with the jawbone. Once healed, a new tooth in the form of a crown is attached to it.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are a popular alternative to endosteal implants. They are usually opted for if you lack the jawbone required for an endosteal implant.
A subperiosteal implant sits atop the jawbone but beneath the gums. Unlike an endosteal implant, it is not surgically placed into the jawbone.
A metal frame is inserted underneath the gums with a post jutting out from it. Artificial teeth are then attached to those poles. If you have an inadequate amount of jawbone and do not want to go through surgery to add bone to the site, subperiosteal implants may be a good choice for you.
Zygomatic Implants
These are the least common style of dental implants. It involves a complex procedure and is only chosen when you do not have jawbone sufficient to support an endosteal implant.
Zygomatic implants are inserted into the zygomatic bone, or cheekbone, instead of the jawbone. They are specially customized for people suffering from bone loss. As compared to the jawbone, the zygomatic bone is denser and acts as a solid anchor point.
Zygomatic implants eliminate the need for procedures such as bone grafting and sinus lifting. They are a relatively new implant type and have a high success rate.
How Do Implants Prevent Bone Loss?
The jawbone maintains its shape and size due to surface stimulation when you bite and chew. Consistent mobility enables the bone to grow, rebuild, and support the teeth. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone stimulation is eliminated, resulting in a negative impact on its structure. This eventually affects the facial posture and general appearance.
There are many benefits of dental implants, including being an effective way to replace missing teeth and stimulate the jawbone. They mimic the natural tooth roots and allow the jawbone to grow around them, which is a process known as osseointegration.
When the implant heals and begins to act like a natural tooth root, the jawbone growth resumes as it continues to carry out its natural functions. If you have a missing tooth, a dental implant may just be the right solution for you. Schedule an appointment with us at Beautiful Smiles by calling us at (530) 206-9211 today.
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