A strong jawbone gives you a defined profile, comfortable chewing, and secure tooth alignment. Unfortunately, an array of oral health concerns can put the strength of your jawbone in jeopardy, including missing teeth.
That’s why one of the key benefits of dental implants is their ability to prevent jawbone deterioration. Keep reading to learn how!
What Causes Jawbone Deterioration?
Before diving into the benefits of dental implants for jawbone density, let’s explore the factors that can contribute to jawbone deterioration. Possible causes include:
- Missing teeth
Missing teeth, whether from extractions or teeth falling out, are among the most common causes of jawbone deterioration. When a tooth falls out, the part of the jawbone that kept it secure in the mouth is no longer stimulated. This causes it to resorb over time.
- Misaligned teeth
Misalignments in your smile cause uneven forces on the jawbone. In other words, the misaligned teeth place uneven pressure on their opposite teeth when you chew or clench. This leads to poor stimulation of the bone around the misaligned teeth and gradual jawbone loss.
- Gum disease
When gum disease is left untreated, the bacteria can spread from your gums to the jawbone, causing it to break down over time. In severe, unaddressed cases, this can lead to bone loss.
How Do Dental Implants Prevent Jawbone Deterioration?
Dental implants prevent jawbone deterioration because they stimulate bone formation around the artificial tooth root. This process (known as osseointegration) anchors the implant to your jawbone, allowing it to function like a natural tooth. It also prevents the bone resorption that gradually occurs after a tooth is extracted or falls out.
If you recently underwent an extraction or have missing teeth, getting Largo dental implants is an excellent way to preserve your jawbone. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
