What is Dental Bone Loss?
Gums and Bone Loss
It is relatively common for patients to experience bone loss in their jaws and around the teeth. Bone loss often occurs following the extraction of a tooth or when a tooth falls out. Bone loss it also prevalent in patients with gum disease or periodontitis. Gum disease occurs when bacteria in dental plaque damages the bone which supports the teeth.
While bone loss in gums can occur in patients of any age, including those with good oral health, it is especially common as a patient ages.
Dental bone loss takes place when the bone which supports and surrounds the teeth begins to shrink. This typically occurs due to disease or infection. It can result in the teeth becoming loose, shifting, and gaps. In addition, bone loss can impact the jawbone. This is common when a tooth falls out or is extracted.
Symptoms
Common symptoms associated with gum disease and bone loss include movement of the teeth, loose teeth, or gums which shrink, are swollen or bleed after brush brushing. Patients should follow up with their dentist right away as prompt treatment is critical in a successful outcome and preserving the teeth.
Common signs include a newly formed gap or multiple gaps between the teeth, bad breath, foul odor in the mouth, teeth which move, receding gums, and swollen or bleeding gums. Patients who are experiencing any of these symptoms should reach out to their dentist immediately to identify the cause and begin treatment.
Causes
The most common causes of bone loss in the gums are tooth loss and periodontal disease. Bone loss around the teeth can also occur as a result of damage from trauma or an accident. This is especially common with sports-related injuries.
Smoking is one of the greatest risk factors that makes patients susceptible to periodontitis or gum disease and the resulting bone loss. Based on substantial date, smoking increases a patient’s risk for gum disease, bone loss, and the severity of the consequences associated with the disease. In addition, smoking can reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Some medical conditions and poor nutrition can make a patient more likely to experience bone loss.
Treatment
Fortunately, there are various treatment options which can be used to preserve the teeth and jawbone. All patients, including those with periodontitis, need to practice good oral hygiene. This includes twice daily brushing, daily flossing and regular visits to the dentist for exams and professional cleanings. When good oral hygiene is combined with periodontal therapy, it can eradicate the disease.
Bone grafts can also be used to strengthen and regenerate the bone structure. Bone grafts are an excellent solution for adding support and maintaining the teeth. Bone may also need to be regenerated following the loss or extraction of teeth to support a dental implant.
Prevention
The key to avoiding dental bone loss is through prevention. Practicing good oral care at home, using proper brushing techniques, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, consuming a balanced diet, not smoking and avoiding sugar are all habits which aid in having health gums and teeth.
Patients who think they may be experiencing bone loss or gum disease should follow up with their dentist right away. The dentist can identify the cause, create a treatment plan, and work to preserve the teeth. This also aids in avoiding long-term damage.