Mouth Bone Loss

Your teeth are held in place by the jawbone. Specific sections of the jaw called the mandible, maxilla, and alveolar bone combine to provide tooth stability. As periodontists, we become concerned when we see bone loss because it is a warning sign for future tooth loss and other health problems.

This article will discuss the causes and treatments for mouth bone loss. Recognizing the causes and seeking treatment can save your teeth and improve your health significantly.

Mouth bone loss causes

There are several reasons why you may be experiencing dental bone loss. The following are the most common causes:

• Periodontal disease (a.k.a. gum disease): Periodontal disease starts as an infection of the gum tissue. If it is not treated right away, it may create a range of dental problems, including gum inflammation, gum recession, and, eventually, bone loss.
• Genetics: Along the same lines, some people are genetically predisposed to developing periodontal disease. As mentioned, people with periodontal disease are more likely to suffer bone loss. People predisposed to developing periodontal disease must have excellent oral health self-care and seek regular periodontal cleanings to avoid gum disease.
• Tooth loss: While it may seem more of a consequence than a cause, tooth loss can stimulate bone loss. That’s because bone begins to deteriorate when a tooth is lost and not replaced. In fact, the bone relies on stimulation from the tooth roots to maintain its density.
• Systemic diseases: Certain conditions, like diabetes, accelerate gum disease and contribute to bone loss.
• Nutritional deficiencies: The food you eat provides the building blocks for human function. Without the proper nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, your bones will lose density and strength.
• Tobacco use: Tobacco use can contribute to the development of periodontal disease and bone loss because it limits blood flow to the gum tissue and weakens the jawbone.

Mouth bone loss treatments

There are several effective treatments for dental bone loss. The most popular treatments include:

• Periodontal disease treatment: First, we must stop the progression of the periodontal disease. By containing the periodontal disease, we halt the damage being done to the gum and bone tissue.
• Bone grafting: The bone graft procedure is employed to replace lost bone tissue. Generally, it involves transplanting donor bone to the area of your mouth where the bone is insufficient to place a dental implant. Once the bone graft heals, your bone should be dense and deep enough to hold the implant.
• Dental implants: Dental implants replace missing teeth. Dental implants affect the body in a similar way to your natural teeth. Because missing teeth can lead to bone loss, dental implants also help to prevent additional bone loss from occurring. Best of all, dental implants provide a significant cosmetic benefit by making your smile look its best.

Sacramento Periodontics can reverse your dental bone loss

Finding out that you are losing bone tissue can be a scary event. We want to help. Our periodontal professionals have extensive training and experience treating bone loss. Our team will be happy to answer your questions and put your mind at ease. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.