Dental implants are a prosthetic option for tooth replacement. Adults may suffer tooth loss because of extensive bacterial decay, or because of a physical accident. If you’re an individual who battles cavities consistently, you may be at a higher risk for tooth loss. If you do suffer tooth loss for any reason, dental implants can replace your missing teeth and rebuild your smile. Dental implants differ from other prosthetic options in a couple of key ways. One of the most important differentiating factors for dental implants is the way they affect the subject’s jaw bone.

Dental Implants Are Surgically Placed in Your Jaw Bone

The roots of your tooth extend deep beneath the surface of your gums and hold your tooth in place. It is because of the structural integrity of your roots that your tooth is able to chew foods without experiencing any displacement. When you need to replace a missing tooth, you still want the bite power that you experienced with your original tooth. Dental implants can recreate this effect because they are surgically place in your jaw bone. Your dentist will place a titanium post to serve as the base for your prosthetic. This titanium post will ensure that the prosthetic stays in place during use.

Dental Implants Can Actually Strengthen Your Jaw Bone

You may be worried that surgery could potentially have an adverse effect on your health, but actually, a dental implant may strengthen your jaw bone. A missing tooth can leave a gap behind, a gap that your remaining teeth will try to fill. An implant stabilizes your jaw bone and keeps your other teeth in alignment. It’s in the best interest of your oral health to replace your missing tooth with a dental prosthetic.

Your Jaw Bone Needs to Be Healthy Enough for Dental Implants

Dental implants can strengthen your jaw bone, but your jaw bone needs to be healthy enough for implants before surgery. If you’ve experienced gum disease, your jaw bone may have weakened. Advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, can destroy bone mass and leave your jaw bone vulnerable. If you’ve suffered from this condition, you may not be eligible for a dental implant right away. You’ll want to talk to your dentist to be sure.

Receive Your Dental Implants at Cedar Dental

Tooth loss can be a difficult condition that leads to compounding oral health issues. Not to mention, tooth loss can cause your confidence to suffer. You can recover from tooth loss with a beautiful, functional dental implant. The team at Cedar Dental can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action for you. Schedule your consultation at Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA by calling 319-364-7108.