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10
Apr
A guide to treating bone loss and supporting dental implant success!
At Eckland Family Dental, our teams in Everett and Redmond, Washington, care for the needs of patients of all ages – from grandkids to great-grandparents. We appreciate that the desire for a complete, attractive smile never grows old. It is an eternally coveted and important facial characteristic, supporting our best health and well-being well into our golden years. So, we appreciate that seniors with extensive needs for tooth replacement may have special concerns or considerations associated with dental implants and bone loss.
What is bone loss?
Bone loss, or resorption, refers to the deterioration of the supportive bone surrounding and supporting teeth. This can occur among people with missing teeth who fail to get those teeth replaced promptly. The International Congress of Oral Implantologists reports a 25% decrease in the width of the bone during the first year of tooth loss. The height of the bone also decreases over time.
Why does bone loss happen in the first place?
Think of it like muscle loss. When muscles aren’t used, such as during long periods of inactivity, they begin to shrink. The same thing happens when you have missing teeth. These areas of the mouth aren’t being used. As there is no tooth or teeth to chew, bite, or do other functions that keep your mouth and underlying bone healthy and strong, the bone begins to deteriorate in those areas.
Why does this process matter?
Bone loss can lead to more than just difficulty chewing or speaking—it can also change your appearance. As bone is lost, you may notice that your cheeks look hollow. Your face may appear more drawn and sunken. You can appear older than you are due to this damaging, progressive condition. Significant bone loss may make placing dental implants harder or even impossible without additional treatment.
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Redmond Office
New Patients: (425) 448-6339 | Existing Patients: (425) 979-4430
Everett Office
New Patients: (425) 249-3830 | Existing Patients: (425) 259-6551
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Why would bone loss keep me from getting implants?
Dental implants are designed to mimic natural tooth roots. They are secured in the jawbone. Once secure, implants provide stability to the prosthetic teeth that are later attached to them, be it a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants depend on having an abundance of healthy bone to grow into; without this bone, they cannot properly heal or integrate with the jaw. They would also be unable to provide a strong foundation for the prosthetic teeth.
What can you do about bone loss if I want implants?
We are here to help! Depending on your bone availability, we recommend starting the process with grafting. This preparatory procedure largely involves building bony tissue at the missing tooth/implant site. We can discuss your options for bone grafts, including taking tissue from one part of your body and transferring it to the jaw. After building sufficient tissue in the area, the implant(s) can be inserted into the jaw. You are well on your way to successful treatment, a new smile, and a fresh lease on life! To schedule your implant consultation, contact Eckland Family Dental today. Our Everett and Redmond, WA, offices can be contacted at (425) 249-3830 and (425) 448-6339, respectively.
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Dr. Kale Eckland
Eckland Family Dental, led by the accomplished team of Dr. Kale Eckland, Dr. Alina Tran, and Dr. Lauren Ma, is a trusted provider of comprehensive dental care in Everett, Redmond, and surrounding communities. With specialized training and extensive expertise in various areas of dentistry, the team is committed to delivering personalized, high-quality dental solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Their patient-centered approach prioritizes both oral health and aesthetic outcomes, helping patients maintain radiant smiles. Eckland Family Dental combines state-of-the-art technology, advanced techniques, and a compassionate touch to ensure every patient experience is comfortable and rewarding, and they are dedicated to fostering lifelong oral health and earning the trust of families in the community through exceptional care and service.
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