Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth. They feel secure, look natural, and can last for many years with proper care. But many people who’ve lost teeth have also lost some bone in their jaw — and that can raise questions about whether implants are still an option.
Bone loss is common after tooth loss. Once a tooth is gone, the jawbone in that area no longer gets the stimulation it needs to stay strong. Over time, the bone begins to shrink. If left too long, there may not be enough bone left to hold an implant in place. But that doesn’t always mean implants are off the table.
With modern techniques and proper planning, it’s still possible to have dental implants even with bone loss.
What Causes Bone Loss?
Bone loss usually starts not long after a tooth is removed or falls out. The bone around the missing tooth no longer has anything to support, so the body starts breaking it down and absorbing it. This process is called resorption.
The longer a tooth has been missing, the more bone is often lost. Gum disease can also damage the bone and lead to further loss. In some cases, past infections or injuries can affect bone quality in certain parts of the jaw.
This is why dentists often suggest replacing missing teeth as soon as possible — to avoid the kind of bone shrinkage that makes replacement more complicated later on.
How Do Implants Work with Bone Loss?
A dental implant needs to be placed firmly into the jaw so it can bond with the bone. That’s what gives it the strength to support a crown, bridge or denture. If there’s not enough bone, or the bone is too soft, the implant may not hold properly.
But there are ways around this. One common option is a bone graft. This is where extra bone — either from another part of your mouth, a donor source, or a special material — is added to the area that needs it. Over time, this new bone fuses with your own and creates a stronger base for the implant.
In some cases, if the bone loss isn’t too severe, a smaller or angled implant might be used instead. There are also special implant techniques designed for patients with less bone, depending on where the tooth is missing.
The best way to know what will work in your case is through a proper assessment with scans and X-rays. Many clinics offering dental implants in Sydney provide advanced imaging to check the bone and create a personalised treatment plan.
See also: How Invisalign Treatment Boosts Confidence and Oral Health
What to Expect If You Need a Bone Graft
Bone grafting sounds more involved than it often is. In many cases, it’s done under local anaesthetic, and recovery is fairly straightforward. You might need a few months of healing before the implant can be placed, but that extra time helps improve the success rate of the implant.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will explain whether a graft is needed and what type is best suited to your situation. Not everyone with bone loss needs one — it depends on the amount and location of the loss.
Is It Worth It?
Getting dental implants after bone loss might take more time and planning, but the results are worth it for many people. Implants look and function like real teeth, and unlike removable dentures, they don’t slip or need adhesives.
If you’ve been told in the past that implants aren’t possible because of bone loss, it might be time to get a second opinion. New techniques and materials mean more people can access this treatment than ever before.
