Can You Get Dental Implants With Bone Loss?

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May 10, 2025

Tooth loss can lead to more than just a gap in your smile. Over time, it can also cause jawbone loss, especially when missing teeth aren’t replaced. This brings up an important question — can you get dental implants with bone loss? Many patients assume that bone loss makes them ineligible for implants, but that’s not always the case.. Thanks to modern dental techniques, even those with weakened jawbones still have options to restore their smiles.

Let’s break it down into simple, helpful points so you can better understand your treatment choices and what to expect.

Why Bone Loss Happens After Tooth Loss

When you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw no longer gets the pressure it needs from chewing. This causes it to shrink over time. Common causes of bone loss include:

  • Gum disease or infection
  • Long-term denture wear
  • Trauma to the jaw or face
  • Tooth extraction without replacement
  • Poor oral hygiene over the years

Without the tooth root in place, your jaw starts to change shape. This is why it’s important to act early when a tooth is lost.

Are Dental Implants Still Possible With Bone Loss?

Yes — dental implants with bone loss are possible in many cases. Dentists can use advanced procedures to make the jaw strong enough to hold an implant.

Here are a few solutions that make it possible:

  • Bone Grafting: This is a common procedure where bone is added to the jaw to build it up. It can take a few months to heal, but it’s effective.
  • Sinus Lifts: For upper jaw bone loss, a sinus lift adds bone near the molars to support implants.
  • Zygomatic Implants:These are extended-length implants that anchor into the cheekbone (zygoma), making them a reliable option when the upper jaw lacks sufficient bone for traditional implants.
  • Mini Implants: If traditional implants aren’t possible, smaller implants may work with less bone.

So, if you’ve been told before that implants weren’t an option, it’s worth getting another opinion. These advanced treatments may give you the green light.

If you live locally, exploring dental implants in Portage Park could give you access to these advanced options.

What to Expect During the Process

The process may vary depending on how much bone loss you have. Here’s a general idea:

  1. Consultation & Scans: A full dental exam and 3D imaging help assess bone levels.
  2. Treatment Plan: Based on the scan, your dentist will create a plan for grafting or implant placement.
  3. Healing Time: Bone grafting may require healing time before the implants are placed.
  4. Implant Surgery: Once the bone is ready, your implants are placed.
  5. Restoration: After healing, custom crowns are attached for a natural look.

Each step is carefully planned so your new smile lasts for years.

Benefits of Implants Even With Bone Loss

Getting dental implants with bone loss still comes with many perks. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

  • Stronger Jawbone: Bone grafts not only support the implant but also stop further bone loss.
  • Natural Appearance: Implants look and feel just like natural teeth.
  • No Slipping: Unlike dentures, implants stay in place and don’t shift when you talk or eat.
  • Better Nutrition: With secure teeth, you can chew more foods with ease.

Don’t Let Bone Loss Stop You From Smiling Again

Just because you’ve lost bone doesn’t mean you can’t regain your smile. Dental implants with bone loss are now more common thanks to modern techniques like bone grafting and sinus lifts. With the right plan, even complex cases can be treated.

Talk to a dentist who offers restorative care to learn what’s right for you. Your confident, lasting smile might be closer than you think.