Jawbone Loss and Deterioration
Jawbone loss often occurs slowly, making it difficult to recognize until significant changes have taken place. Fortunately, bone grafting can help rebuild areas of lost bone, restore stability, and preserve your oral health.
At R. Anthony Murray, DDS, PA, we use advanced bone grafting techniques to address jawbone deterioration and prepare patients for successful restorative treatment, including dental implants.
What Causes Jawbone Loss and Deterioration?
Missing Teeth and Extractions
Once a tooth is removed or lost, the surrounding bone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root during everyday chewing and biting. As a result, the body gradually resorbs the unused bone, causing it to shrink.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Advanced gum disease is one of the leading causes of jawbone deterioration. As bacteria destroy the tissues supporting the teeth, the surrounding bone can also break down, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Trauma or Injury
Accidents, facial injuries, and fractures can damage the jawbone, resulting in bone defects or loss. Depending on the severity of the injury, bone grafting may be recommended to restore strength and support future treatment.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a bacterial infection that affects the jawbone and surrounding tissues. Although uncommon, it can reduce blood supply to the affected area, causing bone deterioration if left untreated.
Dentures and Long-Term Tooth Loss
Traditional removable dentures replace missing teeth but do not replace the tooth roots that stimulate the jawbone. Over time, patients may experience gradual bone resorption, which can affect the fit of dentures and alter facial appearance.
Dental Infections
Untreated tooth infections or abscesses can spread into the surrounding bone, causing localized deterioration. Getting treatment helps preserve healthy bone and reduce the risk of additional complications.
Cysts and Tumors
Some cysts and benign tumors that develop within the jaw can destroy surrounding bone as they grow. Surgical removal and, in some cases, bone grafting may be necessary to restore the affected area.
Developmental Conditions
Certain congenital or developmental conditions may result in areas of the jaw that did not develop fully or have inadequate bone volume. Bone grafting can help rebuild these areas and support future restorative treatment.
Sinus Deficiencies
In the upper jaw, the maxillary sinuses naturally expand after teeth are lost, reducing the amount of bone available beneath them. This loss of bone height can make dental implant placement difficult and is often treated with a sinus lift procedure to rebuild adequate support.
How Can Bone Grafting Help with Jawbone Loss and Deterioration?
Bone grafting restores lost bone by placing grafting material in weakened areas of the jaw, encouraging your body to generate new, healthy bone.
Depending on your individual needs, treatment can offer several important benefits:
- Rebuilds areas affected by bone loss
- Strengthens the jaw for improved function
- Creates adequate support for future dental implants
- Helps preserve your natural facial contours
- Improves long-term oral health and stability
- May reduce the need for more extensive treatment later
- Restores confidence in your restorative treatment options
Every patient's condition is unique, which is why Dr. Murray develops personalized treatment plans based on your oral health, goals, and the extent of bone loss.
