How Do You Fix Dental Bone Loss in Teeth?
The human body is able to naturally regenerate bone in its response to bone loss or resorption. When a tooth is extracted, orthodontic adjustments are made, or the patient experiences disease, there is a lack of stimulation. This can unfortunately result in permanent bone loss. Patients must practice good oral hygiene in order to prevent bone loss. Missing or extracted teeth should also be replaced as soon as possible. The following will review causes and treatment options for patients with bone loss.
In order to maintain its structure, the jawbone needs stimulation. This occurs with regular activities which place pressure on the bone such as chewing, biting down, and even speaking. The lack of pressure fails to stimulate the jawbone and can result in the loss of bone.
Bone loss is not immediate and takes place slowly over time. Symptoms which are commonly linked to bone lost include:
1. Collapsed or sunken facial structure
2. Ill-fitting dentures
3. Misaligned teeth
4. Pain or discomfort when eating
5. Shifting teeth
6. Teeth which are loose or wiggly
7. Wrinkles or jowls around the mouth
Bone resorption typically occurs when missing teeth are not promptly replaced. Below are various conditions which increase a patients risk for bone resorption:
* Injury - Trauma or injury can limit the body’s natural ability to rebuild damaged or weakened bones.
* Osteoporosis - Patients who have osteoporosis are at an increased risk for bone loss. Osteoporosis causes the bones to become brittle due to age and low calcium levels.
* Periodontitis - Gum disease or periodontitis allows bacteria to eat away at the jawbone and periodontal ligaments that secure the teeth. As it progresses, bacteria moves into periodontal pockets, ultimately resulting in the teeth falling out. Tooth loss commonly results in bone resorption.
Bone resorption can be challenging to identify in the earliest stages. However, the progression of the resorption can result in permanent bone loss. Bone loss can eliminate patients from being a candidate for dental implants. Adequate bone mass is required to provide support for the implant. Patients with missing teeth can find it difficult to chew, bite, and speak properly. Bone grafts can sometimes be used for patients who want to replace their missing tooth with an implant.
Bone loss can negatively impact the appearance of a patient. Facial muscles and skin can start to shrink. This results in wrinkles and a sunken in face, making patients appear much older. The loss of bone is a natural part of the aging process. Loss of bone from a missing tooth, trauma, or disease, however, causes premature bone resorption and can result in long-term problems.
When a tooth falls out or is extracted, it sends a message to the body that the bones are no longer needed. This combined with the lack of stimulation causes bone resorption. Dental implants are the only tooth-replacement solution which actually mimic the tooth’s root. The titanium post placed in the jawbone stimulates the bone and provides a strong base for the prosthetic tooth.
Patients should take bone loss seriously. Neglecting bone loss can cause serious, long-term issues. Reach out to your dentist right away to discuss potential treatment options.