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There’s more to tooth loss than what’s immediately obvious. The gap in your smile may prompt you to seek an adequate replacement as soon as possible. But, without knowing the consequences of tooth loss, you may not realize which option is best for the long-term health of your smile. After a consultation and a thorough examination, your dentist may recommend replacing your lost teeth with dental implants. With the addition of dental implant posts, your replacement teeth can enjoy the stability of teeth anchored by roots.

How does tooth loss affect your jawbone?

Your teeth are comprised of two main sections; the crown, which rests above the gum line, and the root, which extends beneath the gums and into the jawbone. When you bite and chew, your stimulated roots signal a need for minerals and nutrients. Your body responds by sending the nutrition to your jawbone. Losing one or more teeth roots causes your jawbone’s nutrient supply to diminish, and in time, it can deteriorate from the deficiency. If left untreated, your shrinking jawbone can experience further tooth loss as it grows weaker.

What difference do dental implants make?

Modern dental replacements, like dental bridges and dentures, are expertly designed to mimic the crowns of your lost teeth, and remain in place using various support systems. For instance, bridge relies on dental crowns attached to the teeth adjacent to the gap, while dentures utilize a comfortable plastic base that’s secured to your dental ridge using adhesives. Dental implants, however, are surgically inserted into the jawbone where your lost teeth’s roots were, offering the same support for your replacement teeth.

How do implants preserve your long-term oral health?

By replacing the roots of your teeth, dental implants can help maintain your jawbone’s integrity when you bite and chew with your prosthetic teeth. As your jawbone heals, it fuses to the implant’s biocompatible titanium surface. Your body registers the stimulated implant as though it were a tooth root, maintaining a healthy supply of nutrient-rich blood to the jawbone.

Ask Your Dentist About Dental Implants

The importance of dental implants includes the ability to help you avoid further tooth loss by keeping your jawbone strong and healthy. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, call Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, today at (319) 364-7108. We also welcome patients from Mount Vernon, Iowa City, Hiawatha, and all nearby communities.