Dentures have allowed many patients to enjoy having a complete smile after tooth loss, and today’s models are so lifelike and comfortable that they are barely noticed by their wearers and casual observers alike. However, some people may worry that since losing their teeth their jawbones have atrophied too much to support dentures. Here’s a brief overview of how the jawbone reacts to tooth loss and why you may still be an excellent candidate for dentures even if you lost your teeth a long time ago.
How Does Tooth Loss Lead to Bone Loss?
Like every other part of the body, the jawbone needs regular exercise to stay healthy and strong. This stimulation normally comes from the teeth as they work against the bone during the chewing process. When a tooth is lost, the bone structure that supported it is deprived of this exercise, causing it to slowly atrophy and recede. If too much bone mass is lost, a person may not have strong enough jawbones to support dentures.
Can I Get Dentures After Bone Loss?
Atrophied jawbones do not necessarily mean that you can’t get a beautiful set of dentures. In many cases, the jaw can be reinforced through bone grafting treatments. To perform a bone grafting procedure, an oral surgeon will use anesthetics to render the process completely painless before making small incisions in the gums. They will then place donated bone tissue along the jaw. Donated bone usually comes from the patient’s own body, but it can also be taken from other sources. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year to recover from the process.
If you are concerned about further bone loss, implant dentures may be a great option for you. These dentures are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, creating a sturdy hold that allows them to handle all sorts of food. Since dental implants become fused to the jawbone through the process of natural osseointegration, they provide the same sort of stimulation as natural teeth, which can prevent or even reverse bone loss.
Don’t give up on getting dentures if you’ve gone for a while with missing teeth. Consulting with your dentist can determine the best way to address your tooth loss.
About the Practice
Gale Ranch Family Dental Group delivers the finest oral health services available in San Ramon, CA. Led by Drs. Alexandra Glants and Lily Chen, the staff provides compassionate care in a friendly and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To schedule a denture consultation, contact the office online or dial (925) 648-8881.