Unfortunately bone loss is inevitable when a tooth is lost and this process starts almost right away. As it begins to erode and weaken, then over time it can result in the loss of other surrounding teeth and eventually when more teeth are missing it can result in a facial atrophy. This is where the features around the mouth appear greatly sunken. The issue is that even with traditional dentures and bridges; they don’t really address the problems of bone loss and in many instances can accelerate the process.
So what’s the answer?
The only true solution to combat bone-loss is a dental implant. In Richmond, here at Sheen Dental we’ve been fitting dental implants for many years and as such help patients to understand the benefits that dental implants have over dentures and bridges. One of these is that not only does a dental implant halt the process of bone loss, but it can also stimulate and regenerate new bone tissue growth.
So how does it work?
It’s all down to a process known as osseointegration. This is where titanium implants are fastened or screwed into the jawbone and over time, bone tissue naturally merges and fuses with the titanium. This then creates a strong platform upon which to attach the prosthetic crown. Titanium is very rare in this respect and is one of the only materials known to man that can bring about this process and is one of the reasons why titanium is used in the implant process.
What about if too much bone has been lost?
Even if a scan or X-ray shows that you’ve lost too much bone for the implant to be fastened into, it doesn’t mean that you’re not eligible for dental implants. Instead most clinics will suggest that you undergo a bone restructure. Although it sounds horrific, it’s actually a very simple process that is carried out all the time. Healthy bone is either taken from other parts of yourself, from a bone bank or is manufactured. It’s then transplanted onto the area that needs building up and over time the new bone tissue will fuse with the old bone giving you a healthy bone mass. When it’s sufficiently healed (usually 2-3 months) then implant surgery can go ahead. Once the implant is in place your new bone will remain healthy and plentiful.
If you want to find out more about bone loss or indeed want to find out more about how having dental implants in Richmond an change your life for the better, then contact Sheen Dental on 020 8876 5277 or visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk and book your free no-obligation consultation today.