Traditional Dentures and Bone Loss: What Patients Should Keep in Mind
Dr. Joseph Perry has helped so many patients in and around San Antonio have healthy smiles thanks to the use of custom dentures to address the problems associated with missing teeth. One issue that comes up a fair amount among people missing teeth is bone loss.
Bone loss refers to the jawbone structure slowly receding as a result of the lack of teeth and root structure to support. When this happens, it basically means that you have less bone structure in the area of the tooth gap. Let's explore these issues in more detail.
Why does bone loss occur?
When you have all of your teeth in place, the roots of the teeth are supported by the structure of the jawbone. After a tooth is lost, the lack of structure to support results in the jawbone weakening in the area of the tooth gap, and breaking down.
Why should I take bone loss seriously?
The loss of bone in the jaw can cause adjacent teeth to become misaligned given their proximity to the tooth gap. In addition, it's possible for a number of serious health conditions to affect a patient as a result of the bone loss. Because of this, it's important that patients take these matters seriously and discuss their treatment options with a dentist with regard to their missing teeth as well as bone less.
Will traditional dentures address or prevent bone loss?
No.
Traditional removable dentures will not be able to address bone loss in any fashion. In fact, bone loss can cause traditional dentures to come lose and fit improperly. The same is true of dental bridges in a number of cases. The sure way to have bone loss addressed and to have a full set of teeth is to consider implant-supported dentures.
What do I do if bone loss affects the fit of my dentures?
For one, a patient can get new dentures fitted and created if the fit of the previous set was affected by bone loss or other changes to the gum and hard tissue structures of the mouth. A snug and more secure fit will be made.
In addition, patients can also consider getting dental implants.
Dental Implants for Fixed Dentures
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in order to support a denture or dental bridge. When a dental implant is in place, it provides the bone structure with a root to support. In this way, dental implants actually help prevent bone loss while also ensuring a secure fit to your denture once it is placed, strong than even the best dental adhesives.
Ideal Candidates for Implant-Supported Dentures
The best candidates for implant-supported dentures are people who have sufficient jawbone and gum tissue in place to support the implant posts. They should be in good health overall and not suffer from any kinds of health conditions that would make oral surgery a potential health risk.
Since getting dental implants is a months-long process, it's important that patients have realistic expectations about the overall treatment process and what it entails. This helps with patient satisfaction and realistic expectations.
Are implant-supported dentures right for me?
During a consultation with your dentist, you will be able to learn is dental implants are ideal or not. If the latter is the case, the creation of a new denture can be discussed in far greater detail, as can other dental health concerns of note.
Learn More About Dentures and Advanced Dental Care
If you would like to learn more about dentures and how they can help you have a functioning smile again, be sure to contact our denture specialists and restorative dentistry experts today. Dr. Joseph Perry and the entire team at the practice looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve the best dental health possible.
