Depending on the type of procedure and how dental implants are used, these implants can change the shape of the face. Dental implants typically positively affect face shape and can restore the structure of a patient’s face by aligning the jaw and providing balance.
For instance, dental implants may help prevent bone loss, support facial structure, and keep your features looking natural and youthful. You can avoid any adverse effects by seeing an expert dentist who takes excellent care of patients. Ultimately, dental implants may restore confidence and facial symmetry.
How Dental Implants Change Face Shape
If an individual does not replace missing teeth, over time, jaw health becomes at risk. When teeth are missing, eating —and more specifically, chewing —can lead to jaw problems. Thankfully, dental implants can not only improve the function of your mouth to make eating easier but also enhance the shape of your face.
If a patient’s face has changed due to the loss of bone growth or missing teeth, a dentist can help restructure areas of the mouth. For instance, a dentist can make your teeth look more natural, and implants can improve jaw health and posture.
How Dental Implants Are Beneficial
A benefit of dental implants isn’t just pleasing aesthetics. In fact, there are various ways dental implants are beneficial. This type of dental work restores the face and jaw bones to their original function in your mouth, allowing for the return of facial movements and the daily activities needed for eating and drinking.
Dental implants can improve the following:
- Chewing
- Swallowing
- Speaking
- Smiling
- Breathing
- Teeth posture
- Jaw posture
- Tooth health
If you lost teeth or parts of your mouth due to an accident or decay, restoration of the mouth by a skillful dentist can improve the shape of your face simply by adding dental implants. Whether you’re receiving new teeth or you require reconstruction of your jaw, replacing lost bones can restore your original features.
What to Expect When Receiving Dental Implants
Those receiving dental implants should expect a smooth surgery. Throughout the process of receiving dental implants, there will be several steps. These include:
- A consultation with a dental professional
- An evaluation of your mouth and certain bones
- A plan to replace specific bones with implants
- Placing a titanium post into the jawbone for the procedure
Afterward, you can expect the healing process to last for a few months. Over the next few months, the implant slowly connects to the jawbone. After healing occurs, restoration can begin.
In the restoration process, you will be given a custom crown. Once you receive the crown, your bite and other mouth movements should improve.
Aesthetic Dental Implant Concerns
For those concerned about changes in face shape due to dental implants, there are several ways to prevent adverse effects from this type of procedure. For example, the National Library of Medicine states issues may occur, including soft tissue complications or discoloration.
However, there are numerous ways to prevent negative aesthetics caused by dental implants. These consist of:
- Regular follow-ups with your dentist or provider
- Soft tissue management
- Patient education and expectation management
- Careful treatment planning
- Collaboration among specialists
The above are ways to minimize aesthetic problems and ensure better outcomes for patients. Not only is this another way to provide patient satisfaction, but it can also help ease any fears you may have about dental implants.
Find an Expert Dentist at Encino Family Dental
For those of you ready to take the leap and receive care for your teeth, consider scheduling a consultation at Encino Family Dental. Contact us today to learn more about the treatments we provide and how we can assist you in improving your teeth, gums, and mouth health.
