How Do You Fix Dental Bone Loss in Teeth?
In healthy patients, the body can normally regenerate bone in response to loss or resorption. In cases of tooth extractions, orthodontic adjustments, and disease, however, the lack of stimulation can result in permanent bone loss. In order to prevent bone loss, it is critical for patients to practice good oral hygiene. In addition, it is important to promptly replace missing or extracted teeth. This article will discuss various causes and treatment options for patients who experience bone loss.
The jawbone relies on stimulation from routine activities in order to maintain the structure. These activities which place the necessary pressure on the bone include chewing, biting down, and talking. When there is no pressure, the jawbone fails to be stimulated and ultimately results in bone loss.
Bone loss occurs slowly and gradually. Common symptoms associated with bone lost are summarized below:
- Collapsed facial structure
- Dentures which do not properly fit
- Discomfort or pain when eating
- Jowls or wrinkles around the mouth
- Loose or wiggly permanent teeth
- Shifting or misaligned teeth
- Sinking lips
The main cause for bone resorption is missing teeth which are not replaced. The following conditions also place patients at an increased risk for bone resorption:
- Gum disease: With periodontitis or gum disease, bacteria eat away the jawbone and periodontal ligaments which secure the teeth in place. As the disease progresses, the bacteria moves into periodontal pockets and can result in the loss of teeth or the teeth falling out. When tooth loss occurs, patients are also more likely to experience bone resorption.
- Osteoporosis: Patients with osteoporosis are also at an increased risk for rapid bone loss, including the loss of bone in the jaws. Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become brittle as a result of age and low levels of calcium.
- Injury: Trauma to the bone structure of the face can limit the ability for the body to naturally rebuild damaged or weakened bones.
The impacts of bone resorption is often difficult to notice in the early stages. As the bone loss progresses, however, it can result in permanent bone loss. Bone loss can also prevent patients from being a candidate for dental implants as sufficient bone mass is required to support the implant. Patients who are missing teeth can struggle with chewing, biting, and even speaking. In some cases, a bone graft can be used to regrown bone and provide adequate support for an implant.
Patients with bone loss often notice that their appearance is affected. The facial muscles and skin can shrink, leading to wrinkles and the lips sinking in. This can make patients appear older than they actually are. While bone loss is actually a natural part of aging, the loss of bone from a missing tooth, trauma, or disease is premature bone resorption and could cause long-term issues.
The loss or extraction of a tooth sends the body a message that the bones attached to the tooth are no longer needed. The lack of stimulation from activities such as biting chewing results in bone resorption. The only tooth-replacement option which properly mimics the root of the natural teeth is dental implants. With implants, the dentist places a titanium post into the jawbone which stimulates the bone and acts as a secure base for a prosthetic tooth.
Bone loss should be taken seriously as it can result in serious, long-term issues when it is not properly treated. Follow up with your dentist to discuss the cause of your bone loss and the treatment options.