In our last blog, our Fresno implant dentists, Dr. Claudia Denes and Dr. Alex Denes discussed why restorative dentistry is important and how dental bridges can prevent teeth from drifting out of place. In this blog, our Fresno dentists will explain how dental implants prevent malocclusion, as well as stop jawbone deterioration.
Why Missing Teeth Make You Look Older
Imagine an older person with multiple missing teeth. The trademark denture-less grin is sunken in and somewhat puckered together, creating severe wrinkles. Missing teeth affect your appearance because your teeth are part of your facial structure. They allow for vertical height in your mouth and keep your face looking younger. Your teeth are not the only component in this vertical height. Your jawbone also plays a crucial role in your facial structure and your oral health.
How Jawbone Deterioration Occurs
Each of your tooth roots are connected to your jawbone beneath the gum line. The tooth roots provide chewing stimulation to the jawbone, which keeps it limber and healthy. Without teeth, your jawbone sends signals to your brain to say it is no longer needed. Therefore, your brain tells your body to stop sending nourishment to your jawbone, causing osteonecrosis, or bone death. This efficient process is called alveolar atrophy, and it can be stopped with dental implants.
How Dental Implants Prevent Alveolar Atrophy
Like tooth roots, dental implants are connected to the jawbone. When you chew, the implant provides the same stimulation as your natural tooth roots. As a result, dental implants provide the same nourishment to your jawbone, keeping it healthy and strong.