How Dental Implants Can Transform Your Oral Health

How long have you been missing teeth? Jaw bone loss is a serious problem after losing a tooth, and patients can lose up to 30% of the alveolar ridge due to missing teeth. This critical bony structure contains your teeth sockets. The best way to protect your jawbone from further tooth loss is to explore dental implants — a permanent way to replace missing teeth and preserve your mouth structure.

Dental Implants Go Beyond Cosmetic Solutions

Dental implants offer permanent support to the jaw bone through a process called osseointegration. This prevents future jaw deterioration, shrinkage, and noticeable effects of bone loss.

There are two types of dental implants available:

• Endosteal implants are implanted directly into the jawbone, where a titanium screw eventually fuses with the bone.

• Subperiosteal implants are on or above the jaw and held in place with a special metal framework that is used for patients who do not have enough bone to hold an endosteal implant.

Getting an implant helps prevent jaw collapse by replacing not only the tooth structure but the root as well. With this artificial root, your body receives signals that the jawbone minerals are necessary and should not be redistributed elsewhere.

Lower Risk of Infection

Patients with exposed tooth sockets face an increased risk of periodontal disease. As the jawbone weakens and shrinks, it is common for the gums to recede as well. Furthermore, the exposed tissue can become a breeding ground for bacteria that eventually cause inflammation, gum disease, and decay on surrounding teeth.

By restoring your smile through dental implants, you can protect your gums and natural teeth from bacteria. This naturally leads to greater oral health.

What To Do if You Have Gum Disease

If you have gum disease, your dentist will prioritize treating underlying gingivitis or periodontitis before placing implants. They may refer you to a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating gum diseases

Once your gum disease has healed, you can begin the process of placing dental implants. Some patients elect to undergo bone grafting, a procedure that creates new bone in the jaw to ensure there is sufficient support for a future implant.

If you go this route, then you will need additional time to heal prior to placing the implant.

We Are With You Every Step of the Way

At Aesthetic Dentistry, we believe that a truly beautiful smile is a healthy one. That is why our team of dedicated dental staff works hard to help each patient make the best choices for their oral health.

To learn more about dental implants in Georgetown, TX, please call us at 512-819-9100 or request an appointment with Dr. Mandy, Dr. Mark, or Dr. Devin on our contact page.