{"id":126,"date":"2026-05-21T13:16:42","date_gmt":"2026-05-21T13:16:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.athensdentalassociates.com\/blog\/?p=126"},"modified":"2026-06-05T13:52:01","modified_gmt":"2026-06-05T13:52:01","slug":"which-restoration-is-better-for-preventing-tooth-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.athensdentalassociates.com\/blog\/which-restoration-is-better-for-preventing-tooth-loss\/","title":{"rendered":"Are Dental Implants Better Than Dentures for Preventing Bone Loss?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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When it comes to replacing missing teeth<\/a>, some people are confused about their options. While permanent restorations like dental implants are certainly appealing, they won\u2019t work for everyone, especially if they have significant jawbone deterioration or a very small budget. But for those who are considering dentures and dental implants, the latter offers a few incredible perks that former simply can\u2019t touch. Here\u2019s a closer look at how permanent prosthetics can do more than just replace teeth- they can protect your smile for a lifetime!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Causes Bone Deterioration?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Often, when patients have been missing teeth for a long time, they are surprised to learn that their jawbone has deteriorated to the point where they cannot receive dental implants. This is because they require a strong foundation to stay securely in place and withstand the pressure of everyday chewing. Unfortunately, when you lose teeth, your jaw stops receiving essential stimulation from the tooth roots, causing it to deteriorate. Worse yet, you don\u2019t even need to be without them for long; the jawbone can begin weakening within about six months after loss!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Dentures Prevent Bone Loss?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although dentures do<\/em> provide a solution to lost teeth, they unfortunately do not have the ability to prevent bone deterioration like dental implants can. That\u2019s because they sit on top of the gums, along the arches, not inside<\/em> the bone itself. Thus, they cannot provide proper jawbone stimulation. While they still do offer important benefits like the prevention of tooth drift, and of course the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, they can eventually lead to more bone loss over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preventing Bone Loss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you are interested in upgrading your smile to dental implants but have either been missing teeth for an extended period or have already suffered bone loss, you may be able to restore your jawbone with a bone graft or sinus lift. However, if your dentist has determined that you will not be a good candidate for this treatment, you may need to stick with dentures moving forward. If your jaw is in good health and you\u2019d like to prevent bone loss, dental implants can help achieve this goal and protect any remaining teeth in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other Benefits of Dental Implants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In addition to protecting your jawbone, dental implants also offer a variety of incredible benefits to your oral and overall health that temporary restorations like dentures and even dental bridges simply cannot provide, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n