Did you know that missing teeth can actually lead to bone loss in your jawbone? Tooth loss results in erosion and weakening of your jawbone and it can eventually cause jawbone or facial atrophy, which is a condition that results in the shrinking of facial features and a sunken appearance. Dentures, partial dentures and bridges can be a good solution for missing teeth; unfortunately these methods of dental prosthesis are not the best answer when you are experiencing jawbone deterioration. But there is a solution for you!
Fortunately, dental implants can be an excellent solution for your missing teeth and can give you the jaw support you need since they are anchored directly into the jawbone. In doing so, dental implants can actually help to eliminate bone loss and erosion. Your dentist can secure dental implants to your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. They act and look just like natural teeth and can give your jawbone the stability it needs. Although dental implants are more costly than dentures or partials, they offer you the best long-term solution for missing teeth with few drawbacks.
If you have missing teeth, it is worth investigating the potential jawbone erosion you are facing or could face in the future. Dental implants, which offer a 95% success rate, may be your answer in not only restoring your smile, but your facial bone structure as well.