Typically, a dental implant goes into your jawbone. However, for various reasons, some people may have jaws that resist this process. Issues with your jaw don't automatically disqualify you as a dental implant candidate. There are a few options available that can still help you take advantage of this procedure.

Types of Jaw Complications

Low bone density is a major concern when it comes to dental implants. Implants go directly into the socket left behind by a missing tooth. If the jaw lacks density, it cannot hold the implant. Also, low jaw bone density can make it impossible for the implants to stimulate the jaw and alveolar ridge. Your alveolar ridge is the bumpy area behind your teeth. You stimulate it and keep it viable when you chew or talk. Without stimulation, that ridge starts to disappear, which can leave no socket for an implant to go into.

Lack of bone density or a receding alveolar ridge can occur for several reasons. Usually, this can occur because there's a missing tooth that's not stimulating the area. Bone diseases, gum diseases, and other conditions can lead to thinning bone density and alveolar ridge resorption.

Solutions for Jaw Complications

Various solutions exist for jaw complications. Various types of implants exist, and some of them have specific designs for dealing with low bone density or a lack of ridge.

For example, mini-implants have a smaller diameter than normal ones, and can often work where the larger ones cannot. Some other solutions can include placing implants where you do have proper bone density so that they can support a tooth placement where you don't.

In cases where the jawbone can't support any dental implants, there are methods to help restore the jawline. Solutions can include:

• Bone augmentation techniques designed to regenerate bone.
• Bone grafts to add filler or bone-like material where needed.
• Ridge expansion to widen the jaw if resorption or bone loss narrowed it.

Each of these solutions represents a broader array of techniques. For example, numerous methods for grafting bone exist. Sometimes, alternative implant designs aren't possible. In addition, you may choose not to go through with one of the solutions to jaw complications. Nevertheless, don't assume you can't have implants.

First, speak with your dentist and a qualified dental implant service about the options available for dental implants. Jaw issues aren't always the end of the road when it comes to your candidacy for dental implants. To learn more, contact a company like Wakim Family Dentistry today.