If you’re a long-time denture wearer, you’ve likely experienced bone loss. For those who sleep in their denture, the added 24/7 pressure on the bone ridge accelerates this rate of bone loss.
When natural tooth roots are no longer held by the jaw bone, the bone begins to lose height and width. To see the extent of bone loss you have experienced, look in a mirror without your denture in place. Does your mouth have a sunken-in appearance and deep wrinkles around your lips? Also, compare photos from when you were first fitted for a denture to now. Does your chin seem more pointed and does your nose appear closer to your chin? This facial collapse is a sign of severe bone loss and will only worsen. Unless, however, you recreate stimulation to the bone, which is just one of the many advantages of dental implants.
Dental implants require a specific amount of bone mass to adequately support each implanted portion. Since an implant is placed in the upper or lower jaw bone, they must be positioned to avoid compromising other areas. For instance, the lower jaw contains a nerve that runs horizontally through the bone. An implant placed too close to the nerve will eventually require removal. Insufficient bone in the upper arch risks an implant being placed too close to the sinus cavity.
To repair severe bone loss, bone grafts can be performed to rebuild the jaw. This is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient facility, using a portion of the patient’s hip bone. Less costly are bone rebuilding materials, which are applied to existing jaw bone. This process does not require the added procedure of bone harvesting or a hospital setting.
There are also implant systems that do not require as much bone for a dependable foundation. Because of the unique angles of the ‘All-On-4’ system, these implants do not rely on the bone density needed by traditional implants. All-On-4 is also more affordable than most other types since only four implants are needed per arch.
A consultation and examination will allow you to learn what types are best for you and associated fees. Call toll free 1-855-9-Smiles, and sooner than later is advised. Don’t allow bone loss to continue further.
