As we discussed in our previous blog, losing your teeth could have a negative impact on the mass and density of your jawbone tissue. Over time, these harmful impacts could lead to further tooth loss and an aged appearance. In order to correct loss of jawbone tissue and allow your smile to be implant-ready, your Conroe, TX, dentist may suggest a bone grafting procedure.
Tooth Loss and Reduced Jawbone Density
When we lose one or more of our natural teeth, the body takes notice. In response, the body suspends the flow of key nutrients, including calcium and phosphorus, to the jawbone tissue around the missing tooth. Without these key doses of nutrients, the bone tissue begins to lose mass and density, increasing the risk of further tooth loss and even leading to an aged appearance, including the potential for sunken cheeks and a ptotic chin. Since dental implants involve actually inserting a new tooth root in the form of a biocompatible titanium implant, there needs to be enough jawbone tissue to support the new tooth root. Otherwise, the replacement tooth could fail.
The Bone Grafting Procedure
If we examine your smile and find you have lost tissue to the degree that supporting a new tooth isn’t possible, then we may need to prescribe a bone grafting procedure. With a ridge augmentation or a sinus lift, we can rebuild and fortify your upper and lower jawbone tissue to build a base able to support the placement of a dental implant. Not only can we then address your tooth loss, but this also helps preserve your facial structure and improve overall facial esthetics as well. We will offer sedation to ensure the procedure is comfortable. In addition, we will provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your smile as you heal and prepare to address the gaps in your smile.
Preventing Further Loss with Dental Implants
Once the dental implants are placed, the body will actually recognize them as new tooth roots. This means the flow of calcium and phosphorus the jawbone resumes, shoring up the structure and preventing the newly grafted portions from breaking down over time. You preserve your remaining natural teeth and help ensure your new ones can last for decades, possibly even a lifetime! If you have any questions about these procedures, or about addressing your missing teeth, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Missing Teeth?
Our team is ready to help you enjoy a healthier and whole smile with strong and lifelike dental implants. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling the Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX, today at (936) 441-4600. We also proudly serve patients who live in Houston, The Woodlands, and all surrounding communities.