What Causes Bone Loss?
Patients with periodontitis or who are missing a permanent tooth often experience bone loss. In cases of periodontitis, bone loss can occur because the bacteria gradually destroys the jawbone and periodontal ligaments which support and secure the teeth in place.
When missing teeth are not replaced, bone loss is extremely common. The jawbone depends on the continuous stimulation it receives from routine activities such as chewing and speaking. In cases of a missing tooth where the jawbone is not stimulated, it can result in slow deterioration and resorption of the bone. In the first year after the extraction or loss of a tooth, an estimated 25% of bone is lost. The bone loss will continue over time.
Bone loss takes place in the alveolar bone. This bone is responsible for surrounding and supporting the teeth. The bone forms ridges where the teeth are embedded. When patients opt to replace their missing teeth with traditional dentures, it can unfortunately still result in bone loss because the jawbone fails to be stimulated.
In cases where the upper jaw molars fall out or are removed, the bone resorption can be more prominent due to the location of the sinus cavity. Teeth which are specifically missing in this area can allow for additional air pressure on the sinus cavity. The bone lining the sinus cavity can then begin to resorb.
Other common reasons for bone loss include:
1. Facial tumors
2. Infection
3. Teeth which are not properly aligned, this can negatively impact a patient’s bite
Because dentures can wear away at the ridges of bone, they can actually make bone loss worse. When patients bite down or clench their teeth, it places pressure on the ridges and ultimately results in bone resorption. It can be difficult to obtain a good fit, cause sore spots, and result in pain during chewing.
Treatment
The loss of the ridge bone can brings the chin closer to the nose. When this occurs, it can cause the jaw to jut out and make the nose appear to stick out further because the upper lip is puckered in. Deep wrinkles can also begin to appear around the mouth and cheeks, resulting in skin that sags or jowls. These negative side effects give patients an older appearance.
Missing teeth should promptly be replaced to prevent the negative side effects of bone loss. Dental implants are the best tooth-replacement solution available. When a tooth is extracted, the dentist can place the implant immediately after the procedure.
Both dental implants and implant-supported bridges are able to stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss. These solutions offer patients the function and appearance of their natural teeth. Another tooth-replacement treatment option which aids in preventing bone loss is implant-secured dentures.
In cases where the patient lacks the necessary bone needed to support a dental implant, the dentist may suggest the use of a bone graft. This can also be used to repair bone which is damaged or lost due to gum disease.
Bone grafts can aid in replacing bone and prompting the regrowth of healthy bone. Products used for bone grafting can include a manufactured product, an animal product, or use of the patient’s own bone from another area of their body.
Patients with missing teeth or bone loss should follow up with their dentist right away to discuss their treatment options. Failure to replace missing teeth can result in permanent bone loss and long-term issues.