How Implants Prevent Bone Loss
Escanaba, MI
 A dental implant is a small screw-like post that acts as a tooth root replacement. It is surgically inserted into the site of the missing tooth and allows the jawbone to grow around it. An implant is eventually capped with an artificial tooth known as a crown.
Tooth loss not only impacts your smile, but also hinders jawbone growth. Dental Implants resolve this issue by fusing with the jawbone and allowing it to grow.
Types of Dental Implants
You can opt for one of the three major kinds of dental implants. Here is an overview:
Endosteal Implants
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Endosteal implants are the most popular type of dental implants and are often used as a substitute for removable dentures or bridges.
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They can either be screw types, bladed types, or cylinder types. The implant procedure involves drilling into your jawbone to place a titanium post that acts as a tooth root replacement.
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Endosteal implants are known to be durable and feel just like your natural teeth after healing. In order to receive an endosteal implant, you must have a robust jawbone in place. Once the implant surgery is complete, the implant slowly bonds with the jawbone and allows it to grow. |
Subperiosteal Implants
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Subperiosteal implants are a prime alternative to endosteal implants. Unlike endosteal implants, they are not embedded in the jawbone but are placed above it.
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These implants are opted for when you lack the quality and quantity of jawbone required to get an endosteal implant. The procedure involves placing a metal tray underneath your gums with a post fixed to it. The artificial tooth is then attached to the poles jutting out from the gums.
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When you are missing a sturdy jawbone and do not wish to opt for a bone graft treatment to rebuild the jawbone, you can choose to get subperiosteal implants.The process for securing these implants usually takes two appointments, making it quicker than the endosteal implant procedure. |
Zygomatic Implants
These are not as common as endosteal or subperiosteal implants. This implant surgery is usually complex and is only opted for when you do not have a jawbone healthy enough to receive an endosteal implant.
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Zygomatic implants are placed into the cheekbone, or the zygomatic bone, instead of the jawbone. They are specially curated for people who do not have a sturdy jawbone. The zygomatic bone is typically denser than the jawbone and acts as a hard anchor point.
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Zygomatic implants eliminate the need for procedures such as bone grafting and sinus lifting. They are a relatively new type of implant and have a high success rate. |
How Do Implants Prevent Bone Loss?
Bone loss is a common result of tooth loss and chronic gum disease. It typically starts in the bone near the missing tooth, called the alveolar bone. This bone basically comprises the ridges from which your teeth emerge.
When you bite and chew regularly, the jawbone function is maintained. This helps it constantly grow, rebuild, and provide support to the teeth. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Without adequate support, the process of bone resorption starts and its structure is negatively affected.
As implants imitate the original tooth roots, they encourage jawbone growth through a process known as osseointegration. This helps the bone maintain its natural form and function normally.
If you have a tooth missing and some of the jawbone is already lost, you may need to undergo a bone graft procedure before you can receive an implant. Dental implants are durable, reliable and long-lasting. If you feel that you require one, schedule an appointment with us at Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry by calling us at (906) 212-4725 today.
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GREEN BAY (920) 278-7678
