A Closer Look At Dental Resorption And Why It Occurs
If you’re considering undergoing treatment for a dental implant in Richmond, then chances are that you’ll already know that one of the benefits of the implantation process are that it’s the only form of tooth replacement that halts bone resorption. That’s all well and good but what exactly is dental resorption and why does it occur?
In essence it’s a natural process that happens after a tooth is lost. In fact in the first few weeks and months after a missing tooth, bone loss can be quite dramatic. As the gum line in the patient recedes it makes them look older than their years as the sides of the face (particularly in and around the cheek area) begin to sag. Even though after a while the patient usually finds that bone resorption slows down, by the end of the first year a patient can still expect to lose around 41% of their supporting bone tissue.
As if that wasn’t enough, even if you opt for a traditional bridge or crown, it won’t stop the process as they either (A) rely on other teeth (in the case of bridges) or (B) in the case of dentures sit on the receding gum line, exacerbating the process more. This is why once snug-fitting dentures become loose over time and as a result need continual adjustments throughout their shelf life which is usually around 7-10 years. When they can’t be adjusted anymore they need replacing.
So why does dental resorption occur?
If you think of our body’s natural bone tissue like a muscle then it’s fair to say that muscles need continual use in order to function properly. When they’re no longer used (usually through injury) then they can wither. The same can be said for bone tissue. When a tooth root is in place the bone tissue is being stimulated by the tooth root and as a result is regenerating and growing normally. However when a tooth is missing, that same bone tissue is surplus to requirements as it’s no longer needed. When this happens the bone tissue begins to wither and die (just like a body muscle).
So what’s the answer? Dental implants!
Because an implant is anchored firmly into the gum line by means of a titanium root, the remaining bone tissue is re-stimulated as it merges and fuses with the metal root. This creates one seriously strong platform upon which to connect a crown, a bridge, or even as part of a set to carry implant retained dentures. So not only do you get back your healthy looking smile, but the ageing process is often reversed making you appear younger than your years
Make dental resorption a thing of the past by opting for dental implants in Richmond instead. To make a booking or to request a free, no-obligation consultation, either contact us direct on 020 8876 5277 or via our website at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk and start the ball rolling towards a newer and healthier you.