Dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth replacement, but what if you’ve already suffered bone loss in your jaw? Most people think they’re not a candidate for implants because of this. The good news is, that even with bone loss, you could still be a candidate for dental implants. With new techniques and proper planning, it’s usually possible to restore your smile and oral function.
Learning about dental implant bone loss symptoms is a good place to begin if you’re considering this procedure. Here in this blog, we will guide you through the causes of bone loss, how it impacts dental implants, and what can be done.
What Causes Bone Loss in the Jaw?
Bone loss typically occurs when a tooth is missing for an extended period. The jawbone depends on stimulation from tooth roots to stay healthy. When a tooth is lost, the bone underneath can begin to shrink or deteriorate over time. This is one of the early dental implant bone loss symptoms people might not notice until it affects their options for treatment.
Other reasons for jawbone loss are gum disease, infections, trauma, or prolonged denture use without support.
Can You Still Get Implants With Bone Loss?
Yes, in most situations you can still have implants—despite bone loss. It usually has to do with how bad and where the bone loss is. High-tech imaging and planning make it possible for dental specialists to determine if you have sufficient bone to hold an implant or if more treatment is required.
For instance, if you are asking, can you get dental implants if you have periodontal disease, the response is based on the severity of the disease and whether it has been treated correctly.
How Periodontal Disease Affects Implants
Gum disease is a top cause of tooth loss and bone loss. Periodontal disease, in its later stages, can have a serious impact on the jawbone’s capacity to support a dental implant firmly. Your gums and bone must be healthy and free of infection before implant placement.
If you’re wondering, can you get dental implants if you have periodontal disease, the answer is to heal the disease first. After that’s under control, your dentist can then evaluate any bone that’s left and suggest what to do next.
Bone Grafting: A Solution for Bone Loss
Bone grafting is a popular solution to bone loss. It entails supplementing areas of bone loss with bone material. This material gets incorporated into your bone and forms a good foundation for implants. Bone grafting can either be performed before the placement of the implants or at the time of implantation, depending on your case.
Individuals looking for dental implants in Langley usually inquire about bone grafting as a means of qualifying for treatment even if they have experienced bone loss.
Types of Dental Implants for Bone Loss
There are also various types of implants to function in instances of low bone volume. For instance, zygomatic implants fixate into the cheekbone instead of the jawbone, thereby becoming a wonderful choice for individuals with extensive upper jaw bone loss. Another choice is the utilization of mini implants, which are narrower in diameter and need less bone to be successfully implemented.
Patients interested in dental implants in Langley must consult an expert provider to know which implant option is ideal for them.
Advantages of Going for Implants Regardless of Bone Loss
If your bone loss is quite notable, several advantages to dental implants make them ideal despite bone loss:
- Dental implants’ durability and stability for the long-term
- Better and enhanced looks and confidence
- No slipping and pain like other dentures
- Stronger support to surrounding teeth and jaw bone
Knowing the advantages will make it easy for you to proceed confidently even if you’re worried about dental implant bone loss symptoms.
What to Expect from the Process
Getting implants with bone loss may take a bit longer than a standard implant case. If bone grafting is needed, you’ll need time for healing before the implant is placed. Once the implant is secure, a healing period is followed by attaching the custom crown or bridge.
Individuals tend to ask about treatment schedules when thinking about dental implants, particularly when there is bone loss. Your dentist will discuss the step-by-step procedure specific to your case.
Maintenance After Implant Placement
Once your implants are in place, maintaining good oral hygiene is important. This means brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups so that the implant is secure and the bone continues to be healthy. Your gum health is particularly significant if you have a history of periodontal disease or bone loss.
Being attentive to instructions from your dental team and following their advice can ensure the success of your implants in the long term.
Let Cornerstone Dental Centre Assist in Restoring Your Smile
If you’ve lost bone or have gum disease, it doesn’t disqualify you from having dental implants. Thanks to modern-day technology and treatments, chances are you can still have the satisfaction of a full, confident smile.
At Cornerstone Dental Centre, your skilled Langley dentist will examine your oral situation, explain your options, and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. We want you to know what your options are and proceed with the proper course of treatment even if you have been informed before that implants will not be viable for you.
Schedule an appointment today with an experienced dentist close to you and begin the path to restoring your smile.