The truth about missing teeth

In a healthy tooth the root transmits chewing forces to the jaw bones. The tooth remains stable and generally unchanged (1).

If one or more teeth are missing, these forces are no longer effective and the jaw bone may start to disintegrate (2). Dental implant therapy may help prevent gradual bone deterioration, since the implant replaces the natural tooth root.

With conventional methods, bone loss may continue and even change the shape of the face. Neighboring teeth may also ‘move’ inwards, creating additional gaps.