So, you have lost a tooth and your dentist has recommended a dental implant to combat the issue? Your dentist will be immediately concerned about bone resorption. Before you can get start the process of having a dental implant, your dentist will look at your gum and bones to ensure your implants will be successful. There will be multiple scans and x-rays done and this is because he will be looking to see if there is any bone resorption.
What is Bone Resorption?
Bone Resorption or bone loss is the loss of bone tissue after a tooth has been removed or fallen out. The bone is used to support the teeth within the mouth. If that support is lost, the bone begins to deteriorate very quickly. When there is any tooth loss there is a great chance of bone tissue loss as well. According to a study in the Indian Journal of Dentistry, up to 25% of the bone may be lost in the first year after tooth extraction.
What are the consequences of Bone Resorption?
Bone Resorption can lead to multiple issues if not taken care of properly. Bone Resorption can lead to multiple issues if not taken care of properly. The jawbone plays an essential role within our everyday life, and if this bone is lost, it will affect the following:
- Change in facial structures – lips and cheeks will change shape
- Loss of teeth
- Change in smile
- The Jawbone is vital for supporting dentures; therefore, dentures may be uncomfortable if needed
- Trouble fitting a denture or implants
Why do Dental Implants come into play?
Dental Implants are one of the most effective ways to reduce the chance of bone loss but also help to combat the issue. They prevent any further issues from developing and aid in the restructuring of the mouth, after the loss of a tooth.
Dental Implants help to stimulate the bone to restore bone production. They act like a tooth and the bone treats them like a tooth is there. The bone will slowly grow up around the implant, restoring any type of bone loss that may have taken place from a lost tooth.
There is a chance that if the area of the implant has been without a tooth for a while, a bone graft may be required.
How does a Bone Graft work?
A bone graft works by adding bone to your existing jawbone. This enables it to hold the implant securely in place. Your dentist will decide if this process is needed before your implants by looking at the CBCT scan and your OPG. The bone grafting will only be required if the dentist can see a lot of bone loss in the area where the implant will take place.
As you can see it is crucial that when a tooth or several teeth are lost, we create a solution straight away. If you act sooner rather than later, you protect your bone and facial shape.
If you have recently lost a tooth or require implants, book in your consult today!