Often when a tooth requires removal (due to cavities, cracks etc), we discuss the option to replace it with a dental implant prior to extraction. Did you know that as soon as a tooth is removed, the jawbone will start to shrink. This is a natural process that will happen (faster for some than others), but for most people over the next few months a fair amount of bone will start to shrink. This is not a process that is generally visible as it happens under the gum.

Did you know, that in certain situations we can remove the tooth and place your dental implant at the same time or very soon after ? Think of your bone as a muscle, when we don’t use those muscles in our body , they start to shrink. When we take out a tooth its the same response. Your tooth in place and daily use (chewing,biting etc) keeps your jawbone nice and healthy and strong. When you take a tooth out, your jawbone now has no daily stimulation and will begin to shrink and will continue to shrink until a dental implant is placed.

Did you know that dental implants are the only option that can prevent further jaw bone shrinkage? A bridge is a great replacement option but does not prevent bone loss. A denture or partial denture is even worse as it rubs and moves on the gum tissue and this speeds up bone loss. While a bridge or denture may be a more economical way to replace missing teeth, the long term consequences need to be considered.

Next time you are considering a tooth removal, its good to have your mouth evaluated for a dental implant to prevent bone loss. Often if this is done at the right time, you can save yourself the headache and money required for further bone and or gum grafts in the future in addition to decreasing treatment time.

For your free dental implant consultation in Bowmanville, contact our team of Bowmanville dentists today 905-697-1118