Losing teeth causes more problems than just gaps in your smile. Without teeth, everyday activities like eating and speaking become harder. Your smile might not look the way you want, and worse. It can actually damage your jawbone over time.
Dental implants offer a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like real teeth while protecting your jawbone from damage. Unlike dentures that sit on your gums, implants actually become part of your jaw just like natural tooth roots.
Why Your Jawbone Needs Teeth
Healthy teeth do more than just chew food. They keep your jawbone strong. Each tooth has roots that extend into your jawbone, stimulating it every time you bite or chew. This stimulation tells your body to keep the bone strong and healthy.
When you lose a tooth, that area of jawbone stops getting stimulation. Like a muscle that isn’t used, the bone begins to shrink and weaken. Over time, this can cause:
- Changes in your facial shape (making you look older)
- Remaining teeth shifting out of place
- Difficulty chewing properly
- Increased risk of further tooth loss
How Implants Protect Your Jaw
Dental implants work differently than other tooth replacements because they replace both the visible tooth and the hidden root. Here’s how they help:
- A titanium post is placed in your jawbone where the tooth root used to be
- Over a few months, the bone grows around the implant (just like with a natural root)
- This keeps the bone active and prevents shrinkage
- Once healed, a realistic-looking crown is attached to complete your smile
Because the implant acts like a real tooth root, it provides the stimulation your jawbone needs to stay healthy. In some cases, it can even help rebuild bone that’s already started to shrink.
Are You a Candidate for Implants?
While implants work great for many people, not everyone can get them right away. Your jawbone needs to be strong enough to support the implant. During your consultation, your dentist will:
- Take X-rays to check your bone density
- Examine your overall oral health
- Discuss your medical history
If your bone is too thin or weak, you might need a bone graft first. This procedure adds bone material to strengthen your jaw so it can support an implant. If implants aren’t right for you, your dentist can suggest other good options.
Why Choose Implants Over Other Options?
Unlike dentures or bridges that just replace the visible part of teeth, implants:
- Prevent bone loss by acting like real tooth roots
- Won’t slip or move when you eat or talk
- Can last a lifetime with proper care
- Protect your remaining teeth
- Let you eat all your favorite foods
- Maintain your natural facial structure
Taking the Next Step
If you’re missing one or more teeth, don’t wait until bone loss becomes a bigger problem. Schedule a consultation to see if implants are right for you. Early treatment gives you the best chance to:
- Preserve your jawbone
- Maintain your natural facial shape
- Prevent other teeth from shifting
- Enjoy confident eating and smiling
Every day without a tooth replacement means your jawbone is getting weaker. Dental implants are the only solution that actually protects and preserves your bone while restoring your teeth.
Call Westside Dental Center at (954) 251-0640 to learn more about how implants can protect your oral health. Our team can answer all your questions and help you decide if this life-changing treatment is right for you.