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Do Dental Implants Cause Bone Loss?

Asad A | September 26, 2024

If you're considering dental implants or already have them, you might be wondering about their impact on your bone health. One common concern is, "Do dental implants cause bone loss?" Although dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth, but some worry that they may lead to bone loss over time.

Let us explore "Do dental implants cause bone loss in detail and explain how dental implants actually interact with the jawbone to maintain its strength and health.

What Are Dental Implants?

Before answering the question, "Do dental implants cause bone loss?" it's important to understand what dental implants are and how they function. A dental implant is a small post of titanium that is put in your jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Over time, the implant bonds with the jawbone through osseointegration to create a strong and firm foundation for a replacement tooth, such as a crown or bridge.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants function the same as natural teeth. They restore a person's ability to chew and speak. It helps in preserving bone health. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone deteriorates because of a lack of stimulation. Dental implants help prevent it by acting like a tooth root, stimulating the jawbone, and keeping it strong and healthy.

What_are_Dental_Implants

Do Dental Implants Cause Bone Loss?

The answer is no; dental implants generally do not cause bone loss. In fact, they help preserve bone. When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area starts to shrink or deteriorate because it's no longer being stimulated by the tooth's root. Dental implants perform as an artificial tooth root that stimulates the jawbone just like a natural tooth. This stimulation maintains bone density and prevents the bone from shrinking over time.

In most cases, dental implants are a long-term solution that actually promotes bone health rather than causing bone loss. However, certain conditions, like poor oral hygiene or infection, lead to bone loss around the implant if not properly cared for.

Can Bone Loss Occur with Dental Implants?

There are certain factors that can lead to complications and cause bone loss.

Infection

An infection known as Peri-implantitis can develop if the gums around the implant become inflamed due to poor oral hygiene. This infection can damage the surrounding bone and lead to bone loss.

Improper placement or excessive pressure

When the implant is not placed correctly or is under excessive pressure, the surrounding bone may not bond well with it.

Poor Dental Hygiene

External factors such as infection or improper care can cause bone loss. Proper dental practices and regular dental check-ups can prevent the risk of bone loss around implants can be minimized.

Signs Of Bone Loss Around Dental Implants

It is important to recognize signs of bone loss that may occur around dental implants. Here are some common indicators:

  • Gum Recession: The gums around the implant may start to recede, exposing more of the implant or the underlying bone.
  • Implant Mobility: If the implant becomes loose or wobbly, it could be a sign that the surrounding bone is weakening.
  • Persistent Discomfort: Ongoing pain or discomfort around the implant site, especially after the initial healing period, may indicate bone loss.
  • Inflamed or Swollen Gums: Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the implant could signal an infection (peri-implantitis), which can lead to bone loss.
  • Changes in Chewing or Biting: If you notice difficulty or discomfort when chewing, it may be due to the implant losing stability from bone loss.

How to Prevent Bone Loss with Dental Implants?

  1. Choose Implants Early: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area deteriorates. The facial structure can be maintained only with a dental implant.
  2. Maintain Oral Hygiene: You have to be regular in brushing, flossing, and going for dental checkups to keep your implants healthy. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which could affect the surrounding bone and implant stability.
  3. Monitor for Implant Health: Regular follow-ups with the dentist ensure that your implants are functioning correctly. Early detection of issues like gum recession or infection prevents bone loss.
  4. Healthy Diet and Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet full of calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones healthy. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol to protect your dental implants and overall bone health.

Takeaway

Do dental implants cause bone loss? No, they do not. In fact, they prevent bone loss and preserve jawbone density by mimicking the natural tooth structure. Proper implant placement, good oral care, and regular dental visits are key to preventing bone loss.

Prevent Bone Loss With Dental Implants

At Dental Arts of Florida in Jacksonville, we specialize in providing high-quality dental implants that help preserve your jawbone and restore your smile. Don't wait to take control of your oral health! New patients can call us at (904) 822-9786, while all other callers can reach us at (904) 998-9820 to schedule an appointment today. 

 FAQs

Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss after tooth extraction.

It is recommended that a dental implant be obtained as soon as possible after losing a tooth to prevent significant bone loss in the jaw.

Gum disease can lead to bone loss around implants. It can be avoided if you maintain oral hygiene and go for regular dental checkups.

Dental Arts of Florida

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