How the loss of a single tooth affect your jawbone (and why it matters) in four questions
The Semidey Dental team understands that gaps in the smile can take a tremendous mental and emotional toll. The loss of a single tooth can set in motion a process; other teeth shift toward the empty space and the gums begin to shrink. Patients may notice crowding and bite problems for the first time, but the issues don’t stop there.
When a tooth is lost, the supportive bone in the jaw is also lost. Jawbone loss has considerable negative impacts. For this reason, experienced dentists Drs. Alex Semidey and Sara Tarte emphasize prevention. Treatment at our Davie, Florida dental office is avoided when we partner with our patients to prevent this devastating process of bone resorption.
What causes bone loss?
To understand resorption, we must first understand a bit about the jawbone structure. The strength of this supportive hard tissue is maintained due to the functions of our teeth. Every time we bite or chew food, signals are sent from the roots of the teeth to the jawbone. These pressure signals are essential for the bone to maintain its structure and strength. When a tooth is lost due to advanced decay, gum disease, or trauma, the root is no longer present to transfer those vital signals to the jaw. When this part of the jaw is not “used,” you lose it! Similar to how muscles shrink following a prolonged period of rest, the bone in the jaw shrinks, too. The body begins to reabsorb the bone, which we refer to when we say “resorption.”
What happens if I develop bone loss?
When teeth are not preserved or replaced properly and promptly, the bone in the jaw can deteriorate or shrink, causing many functional and cosmetic complications. The loss of bone makes problems with misalignment and “bite” worse. If allowed to progress, the neighboring teeth may become loose and fall out, a domino effect of sorts. Additionally, issues with chewing food or speaking properly and clearly may become more pronounced.
What are some of the cosmetic issues?
Aside from tooth loss, the loss of bony tissue in the jaw alters the overall appearance and structure of the face. It’s estimated that bone resorption slashes the jawbone structure to one-fourth of its original height. The internal shape of the jaw and the external appearance of the lower portion of the face are dramatically transformed. These changes can be seen among some dentures-wearers. The chin or lower jaw may appear “collapsed” or “sunken” and prematurely “aged.” Since this process occurs so fast, with about a quarter of all bone loss within the first year of tooth loss, we prioritize replacing essential teeth quickly; however, not all prosthetics are the same.
What is the best option for bone loss, then?
Implants at Semidey Dental support the health and strength of the jawbone. Unlike other forms of tooth replacement, implant-supported teeth are designed to replace not only the crowns of visible parts of the teeth but also the roots of the teeth. The implant is secured in the jawbone. Once attached to the prosthetic (crown, bridge, or denture), implants function as tooth roots to stabilize the new teeth. Implants have the added benefit of maintaining the structure and function of the supportive jawbone due to their unique design. No other type of tooth replacement accounts for the roots; for example, bridges and dentures replace the visible parts of the teeth. But they do not replace the supportive structures.
Today could be the first day of your new smile and a renewed outlook on life. Contact our Davie, FL office at (954) 939-0996 to schedule your one-on-one consultation.
FAQs
When does bone loss start?
The process of bone resorption begins in the months following tooth loss. In fact, the most significant and rapid bone loss occurs within the first 18 months following the loss of a tooth. It’s estimated that up to 25% of bone volume is lost within the first year. Since there is no root present, the jawbone lacks the stimulation that it normally gets from the tooth grinding down food and performing other functions. In turn, the bone begins to deteriorate.
How fast does bone loss progress?
The answer to this question depends on several factors. For instance, bone loss may accelerate if you smoke, drink excessively, and have deficiencies in nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. After the initial rapid phase of bone loss, the process continues gradually for the rest of your life. If your bone does not receive the stimulation that it needs, you will continue to experience complications due to the loss of such facial structure and supportive tissue.
How does bone loss affect my other teeth?
As this all-important bone structure is lost, it can endanger any remaining teeth in your mouth. You may notice that your teeth are shifting out of alignment. They may become loose in their sockets as there isn’t enough bone to hold them in place. The loss of supportive bone can also lead to pressure imbalances on the teeth. Excessive pressure may be placed on the teeth, which can weaken and make them vulnerable to fractures. These imbalances are also associated with TMJ symptoms, such as frequent tension headaches and persistent jaw pain. Unevenly spaced teeth are also harder to clean and tend to trap food, which leaves you at risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay.
Can I prevent bone loss?
The No. 1 thing you can do to stop bone loss before it has a chance to start is to replace teeth promptly with dental implants. Dental implants are the only form of tooth replacement that also replaces the roots of the teeth. The implant itself is the root substitute. When the implants are restored or attached to crowns, bridges, or dentures, the bone surrounding each implant receives the stimulation it needs to stay healthy. We can also take steps to preserve bones at the extraction site.
How much does it cost to fix bone loss?
The longer that you go without replacing your teeth, the worse the effects from bone loss will be. When there isn’t sufficient bone left in the jaw, you may need to undergo additional procedures to build up the jaw and prepare for implants. After all, the implant needs adequate bone to integrate and support healing and the success of the procedure. Additional procedures, such as bone grafting, only add to the cost of treatment.
Does bone loss treatment hurt?
We have invested in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies designed to enable gentle treatment. That’s one of the reasons why those with dental fear and anxiety love us! They also appreciate the small touches that make a big impact on their comfort level and treatment experience. Of course, medications are available and administered precisely to ensure your comfort and/or help you relax. While surgeries carry inherent risks of post-operative discomfort, we do our best to minimize pain throughout the process and as you heal. Post-treatment pain may be managed very comfortably with Tylenol® and ibuprofen.
How can I get more information on bone loss?
Call us to schedule a consultation. We are the home of the “Best Checkup Ever.” No stone is left unturned when it comes to assessing the health and condition of your jawbone, teeth, gums, and mouth. For what we can’t assess by sight, touch, and with dental instruments alone, we can evaluate with state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies. This information serves as the foundation for recommendations on how to prevent and/or halt bone loss.
