Do Dentures Prevent Bone Loss?

Tooth loss is a common problem throughout the country. Fortunately, losing teeth no longer means that you need to go the rest of your life without them. There are several different tooth replacement options out there to help. Dentures are one of the most popular and cost-effective options, but can they help to prevent bone loss? Continue reading to learn more about why bone loss occurs and whether or not dentures can make a difference.

Why Does Bone Loss Happen?

When chewing your food, you’re stimulating your jawbone via the roots of your teeth. This allows it to remain strong and healthy. However, if you have a missing tooth, that area of the jawbone isn’t being stimulated to the same extent, and your body will end up reabsorbing it over time. In the end, you could end up with physical signs, like sunken cheeks and wrinkled lips, making you appear much older than you actually are.

Can Dentures Prevent Bone Loss?

Dentures are a very common option for replacing missing teeth, and they are lifechanging for people who have lost most of or all of their teeth. Traditional dentures are held in by the natural suction of the mouth and restore the appearance and function of the smile. However, this type of denture doesn’t prevent bone loss because they don’t replace the roots of the missing teeth. Instead, they sit on top of the gums and don’t stimulate the jawbone.

How Do Dental Implant Dentures Work?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the roots of the missing teeth. Over time, the implant will fuse with the jawbone in a process called “osseointegration.” A customized crown, bridge, or denture is placed on the implant or implants. Here are just a few of the benefits:

• Stability: Implants can restore up to 90% of your chewing power, so you don’t have to worry about cutting out any of your favorite foods once they have healed completely.
• Long-Lasting: Traditional dentures need to be repaired and replaced periodically. On the other hand, implants can last up to 25 years or even longer with proper care.
• Jawbone Preservation: Unlike traditional dentures, implants replace the roots of the missing teeth and stimulate the jawbone. This keeps the jawbone from being reabsorbed by the body over time.

Traditional dentures are a great option for many people, but they can’t preserve your jawbone. Talk to your dentist to see if you’d make a good candidate for dental implants. It may be the tooth replacement option that’s best for you!

About the Author

Dr. Ed Hajdari is an experienced dentist who has been working in the dental field for more than two decades. He is currently a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the National Ayurvedic Medical Association. To learn more about tooth replacement options or to schedule an appointment at his office in Salinas, visit his website or call (831) 422-7838.