When planning a procedure with a dental implant surgeon, many patients ask: Will I lose bone around my dental implants over time? In this article, we address this question and discuss risk factors and prevention strategies for bone density loss.
Will I Lose Bone Around Dental Implants Over Time?
Loss of jawbone density is also referred to as bone resorption. It is a natural process that occurs when you are missing your natural teeth. When roots of the missing teeth no longer stimulate the jawbone, your body stops sending the necessary nutrients to that part of the bone, resulting in the bone “shrinking”—losing its density.
Dental implants are considered one of the most sophisticated methods of restoration, precisely because they prevent bone resorption. An implant is a metal screw-like post that is surgically inserted directly into the jawbone. Over time, it heals and fuses with the bone, and starts to fulfill the function of the roots of your natural tooth. Thus, implants provide necessary stimulation to the bone.
However, in some cases, bone loss can still occur around dental implants due to the following factors:
- Insufficient oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which, if left untreated, can affect the jawbone.
- Peri-implantitis is an infectious condition that can occur around an implant. This condition can be a result of poor oral hygiene, improper initial implant placement, preexisting gum disease, excessive teeth grinding (bruxism), and some systemic illnesses like diabetes or those that affect the bone structure.
- Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for gum disease and peri-implantitis with subsequent jawbone density loss.
Regardless of the cause, loss of jawbone density around an implant can lead to implant failure, as dental implants require a sufficient bone structure to remain stable and withstand the pressure applied by chewing.
What Are the Symptoms of Bone Loss Around the Implant
We recommend contacting your dentist as soon as possible if you notice any signs of gum disease, peri-implantitis, or bone density loss around your implant. Symptoms of these conditions often include:
- Unstable implants that move when you chew food or touch them with a finger or tongue
- Pain or swelling of the gum in the area of your implant
- Red or darkened gum tissue around the implant
- Bleeding gums
- Swelling in the jaw on the side of the implant
- Pus oozing from the space where the implant is connected to the gum
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth and bad breath that do not go away after you brush your teeth
How to Prevent Bone Loss Around the Implant
Prevention of bone loss around the implant primarily involves preventing gum disease and other oral infections. We recommend following these rules to maintain good oral health with dental implants:
- Never skip your oral hygiene procedures. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two full minutes, and floss every evening.
- Add a water flosser as the first step in your daily oral hygiene routine to boost its effectiveness.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Abstain from smoking.
- Address bruxism if present. Consult your dentist for treatment recommendations and wear a mouth guard at night to protect your implants.
- Ensure your diet is rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals essential for the health of your bones and overall body.
Get Dental Implants at The Smile Artists LA
If you are considering dental implants or require gum disease or bone loss treatment, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a Culver City dentist. Our experienced specialists utilize modern diagnostic and treatment methods to deliver reliable dental restorations to each client.
 "The Smile Artists")