Tooth loss that remains untreated is likely to develop into bone loss. Unfortunately, while more permanent solutions exist – dental implants – they are often not ideal options if there is not enough bone density available to support a custom restoration. However, dentures are often an alternative choice for patients. But is it possible to receive these prosthetics even after years of tooth loss? Read on to find out.
Tooth & Bone Loss: What Happens?
When losing one or more teeth, time is of the essence, and the reason is that your jawbone will begin to shrink.
Bone density is spurred by stimulation, which is delivered through the tooth roots when biting down or chewing. However, when teeth go missing, there is nothing left behind to provide the necessary stimulation. As a result, areas of the jawbone will begin to shrink. The longer this is allowed to go on, the greater your chances of losing additional teeth.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures: What is the Truth?
When looking at how you would like to replace your missing teeth, you might assume that a more permanent solution will be better. While this assumption is not entirely wrong, dental implants may not be the answer because they require a solid foundation for the implant posts to fuse to. When a lack of jawbone is evident, it will be essential to pursue alternative options for tooth replacement.
With dentures, though, you can wear them even if you lack jawbone density. It’s normal and to be expected that your new prosthetics will shift and require readjustments and relinements over time because of your changing jawbone, but these new teeth can be an ideal solution even if teeth have been missing for a long time.
Can Dentures Lead to More Bone Loss?
The reality of wearing dentures is that you should not expect much bone loss over time. You must be committed to wearing them consistently though. Failing to do so will not only make them more uncomfortable, but you’ll also notice a dramatic shift in your bite and jawbone over time, resulting in the need for a new denture.
Each time you use your mouth to bite down, chew, etc. you are working to stimulate the bone so that it does not continue to shrink. However, it’s important to remember that dentures may apply a bit of pressure to the gums and jawbone; however, because there are no tooth roots and nerves, they may not receive as much stimulation as you would prefer.
About the McCarl Dental Group
McCarl Dental Group understands that tooth loss can be a difficult reality for patients. This is why when we suggest dentures, we convey all the necessary details that come with wearing these custom prosthetics. From the creation and placement to living life with a full set of teeth again, you can expect to know what to do and when to call our dental office when you need help.