Having osteoporosis can reduce your bone density throughout your body, including the bones in your jaw and face. Having strong bones is important to get dental implants, but if you have osteoporosis, that doesn't mean the situation is hopeless. Read on to learn what your options are with osteoporosis if you're interested in dental implants.

Dental Implant Bridge

One possibility to make it easier on your jaw is to go with a dental implant bridge. These bridges work similarly to standard dental bridges, except that instead of being secured to nearby teeth, they're secured to titanium posts that make up the implant. This type of implant can be easier for people with lower density in their bones, as it requires fewer implants than having every tooth you're missing replaced with an individual implant. The bridge only needs an implant on each side and supporting implants in the center, so you can get a great number of teeth replaced while putting far less stress on your jaw.

Mini Implants

Mini dental implants are another good option if you have bone density problems. In essence, mini implants are identical to standard dental implants, except for the titanium post. The titanium post is much slimmer in mini implants, meaning that each one inserted into the bone puts less stress and strain on the bone. This makes it a good choice for people with delicate bones, osteoporosis, or even prior conditions like a broken jaw. Depending on your personal needs, mini dental implants may be what you're looking for.

Gradual Implant Installation

Lastly, whether combined with the above two options or with standard dental implants, you have the potential option of gradually having your implants put in.

The reason this works well is that dental implants actually strengthen the bone. Your jaw naturally stays strong due to pressure exerted on your teeth. Dental implants, which extend from the tooth on top down to the artificial root (titanium post) below, perform the same function. Having one or two implants put in, and then taking the time for your body to heal and benefit from the bone-strengthening properties of dental implants, can potentially improve your bone density to the point where you can have as many dental implants as you need.

Dental implants are a great option for most people, including those with osteoporosis. Everyone's personal health is unique, so make sure to talk to a dentist about your personal needs.