Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth, but not everyone who wants one can have one right away due to insufficient bone material. Not having enough jawbone is a common reason. If someone tells you that you don’t have enough bone for a dental implant, it doesn’t mean that treatment is out of the question. There are a few options that you may still do at Southside Dental Care in Glasgow that can help you go forward.
Why bone levels matter for dental implants
Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone to replace the tooth root. The bone gradually bonds with the implant, holding it securely. For this to work, there must be enough healthy bone to keep the implant stable for many years.
Jawbone loss can occur after a tooth is lost and not replaced, due to gum disease, trauma, or many years of wearing dentures. Without the pressure from chewing, the bone gradually reduces in size.
How dentists assess bone for implants
Prior to recommending dental implants, your dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation. This usually includes physical checks and dental scans to measure bone levels and quality. The findings help determine if an implant can be placed securely and with long-term reliability.
At Southside Dental Care, this planning stage is critical to achieving the best potential results from traditional dental implant treatment in Glasgow. If your bone levels are lower than optimum, your dentist will advise you on appropriate alternatives or preliminary treatments.
What happens if there is not enough bone?
If you do not have enough bone, there are numerous options available depending on your specific situation.
Bone grafting
Bone grafting is one of the most common treatments for people who have experienced bone loss due to tooth loss or other factors. The procedure adds bone to the jaw to make it stronger and increase its height. Over time, the graft joins with your natural bone, making a stronger base for a dental implant.
The healing period for bone grafting varies, but it often takes several months before an implant can be placed. Although this can extend the treatment time, it allows patients who might not otherwise be suitable to receive dental implants.
Sinus lift treatment
For implants in the upper back jaw, a sinus lift may be suggested. The procedure lifts the sinus floor and adds bone underneath, increasing the height of the jawbone. Once it has healed, the area can usually support a dental implant.
Short or angled implants
Traditional implants aren’t needed for every patient. Where bone is limited, shorter implants or angled placement techniques may be an option, based on the missing tooth’s position and the jawbone’s condition.
Alternative tooth replacement options
When implant treatment isn’t possible, dentures or bridges can be offered as alternative solutions. Although they don’t restore the bone in the same way, they can restore both how your teeth look and work.
Is bone grafting painful?
Many patients worry about discomfort, but bone grafting and implant procedures are carried out under local anaesthetic. Most people report mild soreness rather than significant pain, which is usually managed with standard pain relief. Your dentist will give clear aftercare instructions to support healing.
How long does treatment take?
When bone grafting is needed, treatment time is longer than standard implant placement. Overall, the process can take several months to allow the bone to heal before the implant is placed. Although this takes time, it helps make the implant stable and long-lasting.
You can read more about the full treatment process on our Dental Implant Glasgow page.
Can bone loss be prevented?
Replacing missing teeth as soon as possible is the most effective way to prevent bone loss. Implants maintain jawbone strength by performing the same role as natural roots, and taking care of your teeth with regular dental visits and hygiene helps protect your bone.
Speak to a dentist about your options
Being told you do not have enough bone can feel discouraging, but it is often just one step in the planning process. Advances in dental technology mean that patients who once couldn’t have implants can often be treated safely and effectively today.
If you are considering dental implants or want to understand your options, Southside Dental Care is happy to help. To arrange a consultation and find out if bone grafting or other treatments may be suitable, call us at 07743 020 777.
