The Impact of Dental Implants on Jawbone Health

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots of titanium surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that match natural teeth. The process involves inserting the implant into the jawbone, allowing it to fuse with the bone through osseointegration, which typically takes a few months. Once the implant is securely integrated, a connector, known as an abutment, is attached to the implant, and then a custom-made crown is placed on top. This results in a durable and natural-looking tooth replacement that functions like a real tooth, restoring appearance and oral health. 

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants? 

• Adequate bone density and quality in the jawbone are necessary to support the implant. If bone density is insufficient, bone grafting may be required to augment the bone before implant placement. 

• Good oral hygiene and healthy gums are essential to ensure the success of dental implants. Periodontal disease or gum infection can jeopardize the stability of implants. 

• Overall, health plays a role in candidacy. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders may affect healing after surgery.Our dentist will assess your medical history to determine if you are a suitable candidate. 

• Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Candidates for dental implants are often advised to quit smoking before undergoing the procedure. 

• To ensure their long-term success, candidates must be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups after receiving implants. 

• Candidates for dental implants typically have one or more missing teeth or severely damaged teeth that need extraction. Dental implants can replace single teeth or multiple teeth or even support full-arch dentures. 

• While age is not a barrier, candidates should have stopped growing and reached skeletal maturity. Adolescents may only be suitable candidates once their jawbones have fully developed. 

Types of Dental Implants 

Endosteal Implants 

• Endosteal implants are the most commonly used type of dental implant. They are surgically placed directly into the jawbone by the dentist in Cypress, TX. 

• After the initial placement surgery, a healing period of several months allows for osseointegration, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone. Once integrated, a second surgery is performed to attach an abutment to the implant, a connector for the prosthetic tooth or teeth. 

• Depending on the patient's needs, endosteal implants can support single crowns, bridges, or even complete dentures. Contact us today to learn more.

Subperiosteal Implants 

• Subperiosteal implants are placed on the jawbone but underneath the gum tissue. 

• A metal framework is placed onto or just above the jawbone, and as the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to it. Protruding posts from the frame then allow the attachment of artificial teeth. 

• Subperiosteal implants are typically used when patients lack enough healthy natural jawbone and do not want to undergo bone augmentation procedures to rebuild it. 

The Advantages of Dental Implants 

Dental implants offer significant advantages for jawbone health, primarily through their ability to preserve bone density and structural integrity over the long term. Unlike traditional tooth replacement options such as bridges or dentures, which rest on the gums and do not stimulate the underlying bone, implants provide direct stimulation to the jawbone through osseointegration. 

Firstly, dental implants in Cypress, TX, are surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Made from biocompatible materials like titanium, implants are designed to integrate with the jawbone over time. This process, known as osseointegration, allows the bone to fuse with the implant, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth. By mimicking the natural tooth root, implants stimulate the surrounding bone tissue during chewing and biting activities. This stimulation helps to maintain bone density and prevent the bone resorption that typically occurs after tooth loss. As a result, implants contribute to preserving the natural contours of the face and supporting overall facial aesthetics. 

Moreover, dental implants preserve jawbone health beyond aesthetic benefits. A strong and healthy jawbone supports adjacent teeth and maintains proper dental alignment. Unlike traditional bridges, which may require the alteration of neighboring teeth for support, implants stand independently. This preservation of natural tooth structure promotes long-term oral health and reduces the risk of additional tooth loss. Additionally, implants provide stability and functionality that enhance chewing efficiency and speech clarity, restoring normal oral function and improving dietary choices. 

Furthermore, dental implants offer a durable solution for tooth replacement that can last for decades with proper care. Unlike removable dentures, which may need periodic adjustments or replacements due to changes in jawbone structure, implants provide a permanent and reliable option. Patients with dental implants can enjoy a higher quality of life with restored confidence in their smile and improved self-esteem. Eating, speaking, and smiling without concerns about denture movement or discomfort enhances overall well-being and social interactions. 

Dental implants are crucial in preserving and promoting jawbone health by preventing bone loss and maintaining bone density through osseointegration. Visit Stone Lake Dentistry at 12711 Telge Rd Suite #100, Cypress, TX 77429, or call (832) 930-7856 to book your appointment and embark on your journey to a healthier, happier smile with dental implants.