Many people don’t know the connection between missing teeth and loss of bone in the face. Being able to chew fully is an obvious benefit of replacing missing teeth but, in the bigger picture, replacing missing teeth saves the whole face. These days, the best, longest-term solution to replace a tooth is a dental implant.
So, how do missing teeth lead to deterioration of the jawbone? When teeth are missing, there is no chewing pressure to stimulate the jawbone. This sends physical signals to the jaw that it isn’t needed. The body responds by dissolving the bone and transporting the vital minerals that compose the bone to other areas of the body where the minerals are needed. It’s a completely natural process but it leaves the rest of the lower face without support.
As the bone deteriorates, the lower part of the face shrinks in making the chin appear more pointed, lips look folded in and facial lines are exaggerated. This effect is unhealthy and makes the person look older than their years. This is a main reason dental implants are so popular these days. With the cosmetic effects possible with dental implants, it is possible for implants to restore a more youthful smile and overall appearance.
Luckily, all this can be avoided by replacing missing teeth in a timely manner before atrophy can set in. Dentures are an option but dental implants provide more advantages. A dental implant is a titanium post that is anchored to the bone, creating a permanent artificial root for the new tooth. A ceramic tooth is placed on the titanium post to simulate the tooth both in appearance and in function.
Are you missing teeth or do you know someone who is missing teeth? If you do, please contact us today to discuss how dental implants can make a difference for you.