If you’ve been without some (or all) of your teeth for quite some time, you might be curious about getting dentures—after all, they are a tried-and-true form of tooth replacement that countless generations of patients have relied on. That said, you’re also familiar with the fact that extended tooth loss can lead to jawbone deterioration. But does this ever rule out dentures as an option? Not necessarily! Here’s what you need to know.
Why Does Jawbone Loss Happen?
Your jawbone stays strong and healthy through the daily stimulation it receives from biting and chewing. Pressure travels downward through the roots of your teeth and encourages your bone tissue to remain healthy and full. However, when a tooth is lost, that part of the bone no longer gets stimulation and begins to break down. This process, called bone resorption, happens gradually but continues year after year.
If you’ve been missing teeth for several years, jawbone loss can lead to:
- A shorter or “sunken” facial appearance
- Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods
- Changes in how you speak and move your jaw
- Loose or uncomfortable traditional dentures
Can I Still Get Dentures with Jawbone Loss?
Even with significant bone loss, it’s still possible to restore your smile with dentures. Your dentist can create dentures designed to fit your current jaw shape, helping you to chew, speak, and smile more comfortably and confidently. Just keep in mind that traditional dentures on their own are not enough to counteract the bone loss that occurs due to missing teeth—for that, you’ll need to pursue another option, such as dental implants.
Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants replace both the tooth and the root, stimulating the jawbone and helping prevent further bone loss. Implants can also be used to stabilize dentures, giving you a secure and comfortable fit. In some cases, patients need a supplemental procedure known as bone grafting before getting implants; this treatment rebuilds or strengthens areas of the jaw where bone has shrunk, making it possible to support the posts.
The bottom line is, jawbone loss is a natural process after teeth are lost, but it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Whether you’ve recently lost teeth or you’ve been without them for years, your dentist will help you find the right treatment option for your needs, whether that be dentures, implants, or even a combination of the two!
About the Practice
Under the talented leadership of Dr. Robert C. Fromuth, our team proudly serves the needs of patients in Manchester and the surrounding area. We offer a wide variety of services, including restorative solutions such as dentures, as well as dental implants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment to see if you might benefit from dentures, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance! Telephone: (603) 644-3368.