At his Albuquerque practice, Dr. Steven Holbrook brings decades of experience to implant dentistry and uses proven techniques to help patients enjoy strong, functional smiles.
The Impact of Tooth Loss on the Jaw
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone beneath it begins to deteriorate. This process, called bone resorption, happens because the root of a natural tooth is no longer stimulating the bone. Without this stimulation, the bone tissue starts to shrink over time, which can affect the shape of your face, the alignment of your bite, and your ability to receive a dental implant later.
Placing an implant soon after tooth loss helps maintain bone volume, prevents shifting teeth, and reduces the need for more complex procedures like bone grafting.
Why Early Implant Placement Is Ideal
Dental implants work by integrating with the jawbone. The longer you wait after losing a tooth, the more likely it is that bone loss will occur in the area, making implant placement more difficult. In some cases, waiting too long may mean additional treatments are needed to rebuild the bone before an implant can be placed.
By scheduling a consultation shortly after tooth loss, your dentist can assess the bone’s condition and help determine the most effective and efficient timeline for restoring your tooth.
Avoiding Long-Term Complications
Timely treatment not only preserves the structure of your jaw, it also helps avoid other issues like shifting teeth, bite imbalances, or problems with chewing and speech. Choosing dental implants soon after tooth loss supports your long-term oral health and minimizes the need for corrective work in the future.
Schedule Your Implant Consultation Today
If you’ve lost a tooth or are facing an extraction, don’t wait to explore your replacement options. Dr. Holbrook is a renowned implant dentist offering expert dental care in Albuquerque to help you restore your smiles with confidence. Contact 505-881-1159 to schedule your consultation and learn more about your treatment timeline.