Dentures are the oldest form of tooth restoration; anthropologists have found evidence of dentures dating as far back as 7 B.C. As time has advanced, so has the technology for dental restoration. Modern dentures are more similar to natural tooth material than ever before. For those that rely on dentures for speaking, chewing, biting, and smiling, dentures restore those abilities all while looking more and more like their real teeth. Over time, even modern dentures begin to lose their grip and their ability to help restore function. Did you know that loose dentures could be caused by a bone loss in the jaw?
Bone Loss And Deterioration
Without the stimulation of a tooth’s roots, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate. This deterioration can happen even quicker when multiple teeth are missing. This deterioration is caused by your body’s reaction to the lack of stimulation to the jawbone. The body believes the bone no longer needs nutrients, so it stops sending them to the bone and it starts taking nutrients away. This process is called bone resorption. As time goes on, the resorbing jawbone will begin to soften and change shape. This softening and reshaping will, of course, change the way your dentures fit in your mouth.
Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss
Dental implants replace the roots of a tooth causing stimulation to the jawbone. The dental implants can also be a secure anchor for the dentures.
All-On-4® Implant Dentures
Dental implants are not needed for each and every tooth that is missing. All-On-4® Implant Dentures are designed to support full dentures on just four implants: one on the top left, bottom left, top left, and top right. The dentures can securely attach to the implant anchors. The stimulation from the implants will keep the bone resorption at bay to keep the dentures fitting just right.
Find out more about how to prevent ill-fitting dentures
To learn more about implant-secured dentures or to schedule a consultation at Austin Prosthodontics, call 512-250-9444. We also proudly welcome patients from Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, and all surrounding Texas communities.
