Can You Get Dental Implants with Bone Loss?
Yes, you can get dental implants with bone loss. While bone loss can complicate the implant process, solutions are available to help most patients restore the function and aesthetics of their smile, even if they’ve experienced significant jawbone loss. Bone grafting and the innovative All-on-4 implants offer individuals with varying degrees of bone loss a way forward.
In this blog, we’ll explore options such as traditional dental implants, bone grafting, and All-on-4 implants. We’ll also cover what causes bone loss in the jaw, how it affects implant procedures, and how to improve jaw bone density.
What Causes Bone Loss in Teeth?
Dental bone loss can happen for several reasons. Some common factors include:
- Periodontal Disease: Gum disease is a common culprit of bone loss since untreated gum infections can damage the supporting bone and soft tissues around teeth.
- Trauma and Infections: Physical injuries or infections can damage oral tissues and destroy bone tissue.
- Tooth Loss: When teeth are lost and not replaced, the jawbone under those empty spaces no longer receives stimulation from chewing and can begin to deteriorate.
Left untreated, dental bone loss can lead to further tooth loss and increased risks for additional oral health issues. This is why addressing the problem early is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. We can help!
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What Causes Bone Loss in the Jaw?
Jawbone loss can occur due to:
- Absence of Tooth Roots: Missing teeth are a major contributor to jawbone deterioration. Without a tooth or teeth in certain areas, there is less stimulation and the bone can deteriorate.
- Aging: As we age, we can experience natural and gradual bone deterioration.
- Medical Conditions and Lifestyle Factors: Conditions like osteoporosis and habits such as smoking or poor oral hygiene can make bones brittle and exacerbate jawbone loss.
Can Bone Loss Be Reversed?
Reversing dental bone loss naturally is challenging but dental treatments can help restore your bone structure. Techniques like bone grafting are specifically designed to repair and rebuild bone, making it possible to prepare the jaw for traditional implants or support All-on-4 implants even without extensive grafting.
Options for Dental Implants with Bone Loss
Good news! Patients with dental bone loss have several different implant options suited to varying degrees of bone loss.
Traditional Dental Implants with Bone Grafting for Moderate Bone Loss
For those with moderate bone loss, bone grafting can create a stable foundation for traditional implants. This procedure involves adding bone material—such as autografts, allografts, or synthetic grafts—to strengthen the jaw. This material stimulates new bone growth, strengthening the jaw for implants.
The process typically includes a healing period before implants can be placed, allowing the grafted bone to integrate and provide robust support for the implants.
All-on-4 Implants for Severe Bone Loss
Ideal for patients with advanced bone loss, All-on-4 implants are an excellent solution that typically doesn’t require extensive bone grafting. This procedure uses four strategically placed implants to support a full arch of teeth.
The All-on-4 approach offers immediate functionality and an efficient pathway to a restored smile, even when jawbone density is low.
How to Improve and Maintain Jaw Bone Density
Even after receiving dental implants, it’s crucial to maintain jawbone density. Here are simple steps to preserve and enhance bone health:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss consistently, and see your dentist for regular check-ups. It’s especially important to prevent infections that lead to bone loss.
- Follow a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Include foods high in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D to support bone health.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity promotes the production of growth factors that contribute to strong bones. Weight-bearing exercises, in particular, can stimulate bone strength.
Take the Next Step in Restoring Your Smile with Bergen Oral Surgery
If you’ve experienced bone loss and are looking for teeth replacement options, Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery has personalized solutions to restore your smile and dental function. Acting now can prevent further deterioration and significantly improve your oral health.
Bone loss can complicate the implant process, making it essential to trust your care to top oral surgeons in NJ. As Bergen County’s only team of dual-degree oral surgeons, we bring certified expertise in both dentistry and medicine—an invaluable asset for achieving successful outcomes in complex cases.
We are uniquely qualified to handle complex oral surgeries, including dental implants with bone loss. Call one of our four New Jersey locations today to schedule your consultation. Let’s begin your journey to a brighter, healthier smile.
Personalized, gentle, comprehensive patient care is our number one priority.
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