Best Treatment for Dental Bone Loss
Dental bone loss can be concerning, but the underlying issues that lead to bone loss are often treatable.
Below is information about the causes of bone loss, available treatments, and preventative measures to keep your teeth and jawbone strong.
Understanding Bone Loss
Bone loss, also known as osteoporosis, is a condition where your bones lose density and become weaker.
Your jawbone is just like other bones in your body and is susceptible to bone loss. It's also essential for supporting your teeth. As bone loss progresses in the jaw, it weakens this support. This can lead to loose teeth, changes in your bite, and even changes in your facial appearance. While some bone loss is natural with age, significant loss can signal underlying health problems or increase your risk of jaw fractures.
Causes of Dental Bone Loss
Several factors contribute to dental bone loss. The most common include:
- Gum disease (Periodontitis): Severe gum infections damage the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. Chronic inflammation from periodontitis can accelerate bone breakdown.
- Tooth loss: When a tooth is missing, the bone in the area where there is a missing tooth no longer receives the stimulation it needs to maintain its density. As this is the case, over time, this leads to shrinkage and weakening of the bone.
- Age: Bone density naturally decreases as you get older, making you more susceptible to bone loss throughout the body—including your jaw.
- Other Factors: Genetics, smoking, certain medications (like some steroids), and poor nutrition can also increase your risk of bone loss. Poorly controlled health conditions like diabetes contribute to bone loss as well.
Best Treatment Options for Dental Bone Loss
The best treatment for dental bone loss depends on the severity and the underlying cause. Here are some common options:
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): This targets gum disease, a major contributor to bone loss, by cleaning deep below the gumline.
- Medications: Drugs like bisphosphonates can help slow down bone loss.
- Bone grafting: In areas of significant loss, a bone graft adds new bone material, encouraging your body to regenerate bone tissue.
During your visit for an examination, your dentist or gum specialist (periodontist) will create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Maintaining Bone Health
Maintaining bone health is essential for protecting your smile and overall well-being. Taking proactive steps is key. This includes practicing good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and getting regular dental cleanings to prevent gum disease. Focus on a healthy diet with plenty of calcium-rich foods (dairy, leafy greens) and vitamin D (eggs, fatty fish) to ensure your bones stay strong. Additionally, it's important to quit smoking as it significantly harms bone health, and limiting alcohol consumption is also beneficial as excessive drinking can weaken bones.
Contact Us
Remember, early detection and treatment of bone loss are crucial. If you have concerns about your oral health, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to provide personalized care and help you maintain a strong, healthy smile. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.