Los Angeles faces reflect the youthful benefits of implant dentistry

The face of a child or young adult is full, with rounded contours. That look is highly-valued in our culture, because we associate it with youth. As we age, facial planes become more angular and skin sags from loss of volume in the form of fat, hydration, muscle . . . and bone! A tiny piece of titanium can help retain a youthful facial appearance. This is just one of the ways Los Angeles patients benefit from implant dentistry.

A basic understanding of dental implants

A dental implant mimics the root of a lost tooth. After careful pre-procedure planning, the implant is precisely placed into the jaw bone in a brief surgical procedure. Over the course of several months, bone fuses to the implant forming a solid foundation for a dental crown, or stability for a denture.

Avoiding bone loss

Each time you bite down on a natural tooth, the root sends signals to the body indicating that wear is occurring. The body sends stores of minerals that keep bone structure strong. When even a single tooth is missing, this communication system begins to break down. The body does not sense a demand for bone-building nutrients in the face, and utilizes them elsewhere. Eventually, facial bone breaks down and is absorbed (a process called resorption). The lower half of the face develops a caved-in appearance, lips draw inward, and skin sags on the jowls.

A dental implant becomes a cohesive part of the mouth, rather than sitting on top of the gums like a bridge or denture. With a dental implant, bite pressure stimulates strong, dense bone which helps the face retain youthful fullness.

There are many aesthetic benefits of implant dentistry, as well as oral health and wellness advantages. I welcome an opportunity to tell you more about this service, available to patients in Los Angeles. Schedule a consultation at Downtown Dental by calling 213-863-9464.