Dental bone loss is a serious condition that causes the jaw to lose strength and prevents it from supporting one’s teeth. If left untreated, it can cause difficulty with eating and speaking, changes in facial structure, and tooth loss.
At Pinnacle Periodontics & Dental Implants, our team, headed by Dr. D’Silva, treats dental bone loss in Matthews near Charlotte, NC by carefully examining the root causes and providing treatment to restore the patient’s oral health. However, understanding the causes, signs, and treatment options is the first step toward preserving your smile.
What Is Dental Bone Loss
Dental bone loss occurs when the bone supporting an individual tooth deteriorates. This condition often begins slowly, with changes only visible on an X-ray. However, the jawbone naturally maintains its strength through stimulation from chewing and biting. But the bone starts to shrink when you have a missing tooth or gum disease. Over time, jawbone loss begins to affect your oral and facial appearance.
Signs of Dental Bone Loss
Recognizing bone loss in teeth early can help us address it before it becomes severely damaged. Here are the common signs to look out for:
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Receding gums
- Changes in how your teeth fit together
- Discomfort when chewing
- A sunken facial appearance
- Persistent bad breath or gum infection
If you notice these signs, see our periodontist and dental implant specialist in Matthews, NC, for an evaluation. Early detection makes treatment more effective and may prevent further jawbone loss.
Common Causes of Dental Bone Loss
The most common factors include:
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease, such as periodontitis, is the leading cause of jawbone loss. Bacteria destroy gum tissue and bone over time, creating pockets that loosen teeth.
- Tooth Loss: When a tooth is missing, the bone underneath is no longer stimulated and begins to shrink. If the area is not treated, this can happen within months of tooth extraction.
- Trauma or Injury: Facial injuries or trauma that damage teeth or jaw structure can cause bone loss if left untreated.
- Other Health Conditions: Osteoporosis, certain medications, and chronic infections can contribute to bone loss in the jaw.
Dental Bone Loss Treatments
Once dental bone loss occurs, specialized treatment is required to restore bone density and prevent further damage. At our dental office in Matthews, Dr. D’Silva offers the following therapies for jawbone loss:
Dental Bone Graft
A dental bone graft replaces lost bone with material that promotes new bone growth. This procedure is often necessary before placing dental implants. Bone grafts can use your bone, donor bone, or synthetic materials, all designed to encourage regeneration.
The cost of dental bone grafting varies based on the extent of bone loss, the type of graft material used, and the case’s complexity.
Guided Tissue Regeneration (Gum Surgery)
Guided tissue regeneration is a gum surgery used to treat bone and gum loss caused by gum disease. A special membrane is placed between bone and gum tissue to encourage new bone growth and prevent gum tissue from invading the healing space.
These treatments can significantly improve the chances of saving natural teeth and restoring jaw stability. While complete reversal of advanced bone loss is rare, early intervention can stop progression and, in many cases, partially rebuild lost bone.
How to Prevent Bone Loss in the Jaw
Here are steps to prevent dental bone loss and improve oral health.
- Treat gum disease early: Regular dental visits can help catch and treat gum infections before they damage bone.
- Replace missing teeth quickly: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further loss.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria.
- Eat a balanced diet: Calcium and vitamin D-rich foods help strengthen jawbones.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking slows healing and increases the risk of gum disease.
Periodontics in Matthews, NC
At Pinnacle Periodontics & Dental Implants, we specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental bone loss in Matthews near Charlotte, NC. Whether you need a dental bone graft or advanced gum surgery, Dr. D’Silva is here to restore your oral health with precision and care. If you’ve noticed any symptoms of bone loss, have concerns about the cost of treatment, or are looking for a trusted periodontist in Matthews, NC, contact us today. We aim to help you preserve your smile, protect your jawbone, and enjoy lasting oral health.
