Dental implants are commonly used to aid in the restoration of lost teeth. The implants replace the missing dental roots. During the placement of an implant, the dentist inserts the device through a small incision in the gums into the jawbone. Over the course of a few months, the implant integrates with the bone tissue. The healing process through which the integration occurs is called osseointegration.
Osseointegration results in the stabilization of the implant in the mouth. As a result, once the implant has been topped with a crown-replacement device, the implant remains in position when it encounters the bite pressure associated with chewing
Due to the stability and durability of implants, they are commonly prescribed as components in tooth-replacement procedures. Additionally, implant-based restorations are preferred because of their aesthetic benefits.
Here are a few ways that dental implants can help preserve or improve your appearance.
Thicker Jawbones
After the loss of a tooth, the jawbone tissue at the site of the extraction no longer receives enough stimulation to maintain its thickness. Thus, the jawbone may begin to shrink or atrophy.
As the jawbone shrinks, it provides less support to the muscles and other soft tissues of the face. Consequently, jawbone shrinkage can cause the skin of the face to look droopy. The sagging appearance can make the face seem older and worn.
Dental implants can improve the appearance of the face by helping to maintain the thickness of the jawbones. As a person with dental implants chews, the bite pressure is transferred to the bone tissue of the jaw to incite the creation of new bone cells. The consistent production of the new cells helps to maintain the thickness of the jawbone.
The maintenance of the jawbone's girth can also help lessen the chance that additional teeth will be lost. As the jawbone shrinks, existing teeth may become increasingly loose in their sockets.
Eliminating Gaps
Once a tooth is lost, the symmetry of the patient's smile can suffer. The gap left by a missing tooth is usually quite noticeable, especially if it is located near the front of the mouth. An implant-based restoration fills the gap.
After an implant has been placed, the wound from the insertion is allowed to heal. Then, the dentist contours the gums around the implant to help the restoration look as natural as possible. Later, an abutment is attached to the implant to connect it to a crown-replacement device. Once the crown-replacement device is in place, the gap in the mouth is eliminated.
To learn more about dental implants and their benefits, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.
