Worried About Bone Loss? Here’s How Dental Implants Can Help

The loss of adult teeth can have an impact on one’s smile. Not only does it result in a less attractive smile, but it can also cause changes in bite alignment and function. Additionally, along with the loss of the tooth, patients will experience the loss of the jawbone as well. Think about the people you know with removable full dentures. With time, bone loss occurs, which causes the patient to have a “sunken” appearance to the jaw and chin area. This is common with denture wearers and is known as bone resorption. The jawbone automatically reduces the amount of bone in the area if there is no tooth to support it. One way to trick the body is by the placement of dental implants after tooth loss. Learn everything you need to know about dental implants!

What is a dental implant Camarillo?

Mike Wygant is a dentist in Camarillo, CA describes dental implants as artificial tooth root replacements. They are small, screw-like posts that are put into the jawbone during oral surgery. The part of the dental implant that sits above the gum line is called the abutment and is the foundation for a dental restoration. What sets dental implants apart from other tooth replacement options is the versatility they provide, allowing patients to replace one, several, or all the teeth. The abutment can hold a dental crown to replace a single tooth, a bridge to replace one or more teeth in a row, or a full denture to replace the entire arch of teeth.

How do dental implants prevent bone loss?

When a dental implant is placed, it can help in stimulating bone growth through a natural process known as osseointegration. Osseointegration is where the bone of the jaw starts to grow around a dental implant. During this process, the dental implant becomes one with the jaw and has a strong, sturdy foundation. The dentist can place a restoration over the abutment of the implant, and patients will maintain their natural face structure by avoiding bone resorption.

How are dental implants used?

Dental implants can be used to hold a crown, bridge, or denture in place. Implant-supported dentures are one of the most popular ways to restore all the teeth in the smile. Instead of using a cumbersome dental appliance each day, which covers the natural palate (or the roof of the mouth), an implant-supported denture uses a much more conservative appliance that snaps into place with the implants for optimum stability and function. Patients find that implant-supported dentures are easy to adjust to than traditional acrylic full dentures, while maintaining the natural bone of the jaw with time.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

The best candidates for the placement and restoration of dental implants are patients who have sufficient bone for successful implantation of the titanium posts. Without enough bone present, patients may require bone grafting to make themselves eligible. Determining if enough healthy bone is present is achieved with the use of dental x-rays, where Dr. Mike Wygant can evaluate the bone of the jaw and decide if a patient is a good fit. An oral surgery date is set for the placement of implants, and then a restoration is made based on the needs of the individual.

Book an appointment with Camarillo dental office

If you reside in the area of Camarillo, CA and are interested in learning more about avoiding bone resorption with dental implants, our team can assist. Dr. Mike Wygant and his team are pleased to offer the planning, placement, and restoration of implants for patients of the community and beyond. Call (805) 482-6389 for an appointment at 5301 Mission Oaks Boulevard, Suite B. We accept new patients here at Woodcreek Dental!

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