If you’ve been missing teeth for some time, then you have probably at least considered getting dental implants to complete your smile again. After you lose teeth, however, your jawbone gradually begins to shrink in that area because of the lack of stimulation from your tooth roots. As a result, it may be difficult to place dental implants if you have gone through bone loss. But is it impossible? Continue reading to find out.
What Is Bone Loss?
Bone loss, also called osteoporosis, is essentially when bones become weaker. In the case of your jawbone, it occurs after prolonged tooth loss. The jawbone then is generally not strong enough to support a dental implant. The best way to diagnose bone loss is through what’s called a bone density test, wherein your dentist takes detailed x-rays to measure the grams of calcium and other bone minerals in one section of the bone.
Can You Get Dental Implants If You Have Bone Loss?
In order to properly place a dental implant, your dentist needs sufficient amount of jawbone to cement the implant in place. In fact, the main reason why implants are so durable and last so long is because they actually bond directly with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. During osseointegration, your bone and the implant basically become one and the same.
The good news is that yes, you can still get dental implants even after you’ve undergone bone loss.
One of the most common ways your dentist can fix this problem is through a bone graft. Your dentist will either take bone material from your own body (like your hip or your chin) or use artificial bone material and attach it to your jawbone until the jawbone becomes strong enough to support as many dental implants as you need to rebuild your smile. The grafting process may take a few extra months, but it will be worth it to have a sturdy smile that can last for decades to come.
Another method of solving the problem of bone loss is a sinus lift, which is used if you need implants to replace the top teeth in the back of your mouth. Your dentist will essentially lift your upper jaw by placing some of the bone into your sinus, or the area above your back teeth on either side of your nose.
If you’re in need of replacement teeth to complete your smile again after tooth loss, your best bet is to get a dental implant. However, even if you have undergone bone loss, your dentist has options to strengthen your bone so that you have enough support for brand-new teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Sean Hrinda pursued his doctorate at Tufts University more than 20 years ago. He maintains active memberships in several professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Massachusetts Dental Association. He can perform bone grafts as well as restore dental implants at his Greenfield, MA practice. To learn whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants, visit Dr. Hrinda’s website.