When evaluating options to replace missing teeth, it is natural to focus on how your new smile will look in the mirror. But beneath your gumline, a very important process happens after a tooth is removed. Each tooth replacement option impacts this process differently.
What happens to your jawbone over time when you choose classic dentures vs dental implants in Washington? Looking at the biological differences helps you protect your smile and facial structure. Keep reading to learn more.
The Reality of Bone Loss After Tooth Loss
Every time you chew, your tooth roots send tiny signals down into your jawbone that tell your body to keep that bone tissue dense, thick, and healthy. When a tooth is removed, the signals stop, and the jawbone beneath naturally begins to shrink away.
Traditional dentures rest on top of the gums, so they cannot stimulate the bone underneath. Dental implants are the only replacement option that functions like a tooth root to stimulate (and therefore preserve) the jawbone.
Preventing Changes in Your Facial Architecture
As the jawbone gradually loses volume underneath traditional dentures, it can affect the way your face looks. Loss of bone support can cause the lips to thin and the lower cheeks to sink inward slightly, leading to a prematurely aged facial appearance. Because dental implants stop jawbone shrinkage right at the source, they help preserve your natural facial shape and youthful appearance.
Protecting Your Neighboring Natural Teeth
Traditional dentures can put extra rubbing stress on surrounding gums and remaining anchor teeth. Dental implants stand entirely on their own titanium posts, requiring zero support or grinding down of neighboring natural teeth.
Take the First Step Toward a Stronger Foundation
Understanding how your jawbone reacts to tooth loss makes it easy to see why dental implants are considered an excellent long-term choice for your mouth. While dentures replace the visible crown, implants protect the hidden root foundation beneath. For patients who need to replace many teeth, our dentist in Washington can also combine implants with dentures via implant-supported dentures.
Protect your jawbone and rebuild your confidence! Schedule a consultation today for dental implants in Washington with Inner Banks Dental.
