It’s estimated that nearly 70% of US adults between the ages of 35 to 44 are missing at least one of their teeth! That said, missing teeth is a serious problem and certainly not something you should just brush off; but what should you do if you find yourself with missing teeth? There are many different treatment options, including things like dentures and dental implants. But can these options also ensure the preservation of your jawbone? Keep reading to learn more about dentures and dental implants, and why the latter can even help to prevent bone loss.
How Can Missing Teeth Lead to Bone Loss?
Your teeth are your body’s primary means for biting and chewing your food. Not only is chewing an integral step in the digestive process, but it also provides stimulation to your jawbone! As you bite and chew, the pressure that’s exerted travels downwards through the roots of your teeth and stimulates your jaws, encouraging them to grow and remain healthy. Without this stimulation, your jaws can prematurely weaken and deteriorate—and missing teeth only expedites this! Insufficient bone density in your jaw can lead to all sorts of problems, including a gradual decrease in your facial structure.
Can Dentures Preserve Your Jawbone?
To put it simply, dentures are artificial teeth and gums, and they’re a very popular solution for people who are missing many or all of their teeth. They rely on a combination of adhesives, suction, and muscle control to stay fixated on your jaws—but this doesn’t mean that they’re entirely stable all the time. In fact, since they aren’t permanently attached to anything in your mouth, they can easily slip and slide around and negatively impact your chewing power. This also means that since they aren’t properly anchored to your jaw, dentures can’t offer you anything in terms of jawbone preservation. There is even some research that suggests wearing dentures can even increase bone atrophy, which results in substantial jawbone shrinkage.
Why Are Dental Implants the Better Option?
Fortunately, dental implants can do everything dentures can do, and more! Dental implants completely replace the tooth’s entire structure from its roots to its crown. They’re surgically inserted into your jawbone, where they’ll naturally fuse with it in a process called osseointegration. This results in unmatched durability and longevity, while also providing you with a complete, beautiful smile. But the best part is that since the implants fully mimic your natural teeth, they’re also able to provide jawbone preservation!
Talk with your dentist if you’re curious about receiving dental implants to replace your missing teeth; not only are they a more effective option than dentures, but they can also provide an adequate amount of jawbone preservation that will ensure you look your best for many years to come.
About the Practice
Harrisonburg Family & Cosmetic Dentistry proudly serves patients and families in the Harrisonburg, VA area under the leadership of Dr. Mario DeNicola and Dr. Monisha Khanna! Together they combine several years of experience to provide all of their patients with an elite level of dental care. Their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services including restorative dentistry options like dentures and dental implants. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone: (540) 432-6616.