Looking for information on jaw bone health, loss, and deterioration in DeSoto, TX? For an appointment at DeSoto Smile Studio, call our office today or make an appointment online. A strong and healthy jawbone is essential for activities such as talking and eating food. Additionally, a robust jawbone is necessary to keep all of your teeth in place and maintain your facial structure. With preventative care and modern restorative solutions, you can keep your jaw healthy and functioning properly well into your golden years.
Common Causes Of Jawbone Deterioration
Jawbone loss, also known as resorption, occurs when the bone tissue is no longer being stimulated by the roots of your teeth. At DeSoto Smile Studio, we help patients identify the root causes of bone loss to provide the most effective treatment. The following are the most common causes of jawbone deterioration that may require a bone grafting procedure:
- Tooth extractions: Once a tooth is removed, the bone that previously supported it no longer serves a purpose and begins to “melt away.”
- Periodontal disease: Chronic gum infections can destroy the supporting bone and the ligaments that hold your teeth in place.
- Traditional dentures/bridgework: While these replace the crowns of teeth, they do not replace the roots. Because they do not stimulate the bone, deterioration continues beneath the appliance.
- Trauma: A forceful blow to the jaw can cause bone to recede or stop growing.
- Misalignment: When teeth are severely misaligned, certain areas of the jawbone may not receive the necessary stimulation from chewing.
- Facial tumors: While less common, tumors can invade the jawbone, necessitating surgical removal of bone tissue.
Preventing Bone Loss With Modern Technology
Bone loss can be prevented by giving the jawbone a replacement tooth with a root that can exert the same or similar pressure as natural teeth. This is ideally done immediately after extraction.
- Dental implants: Replacing a single tooth with an implant provides a chewing power of nearly 99% of natural bite force, fully stimulating the bone.
- Implant-supported bridges: For multiple missing teeth, a bridge supported by two or more implants provides a stable, bone-preserving foundation.
- Same-day teeth: A denture secured with dental implants provides about 70% to 80% of normal biting force. This is a significant improvement over traditional dentures and helps considerably in preventing bone loss and the “sunken” facial appearance.
Tips For Maintaining Jawbone Health
At DeSoto Smile Studio, we believe that dentistry should be personal and proactive. Beyond professional treatments, there are several ways you can support your bone health at home:
- Eat a healthy diet: Prioritize foods rich in Vitamin D and Calcium to support bone density.
- Take calcium supplements: If your diet is lacking, supplements can help ensure your body has the building blocks for strong bones.
- Regularly stretch jaw muscles: Gentle stretching can improve circulation and reduce tension in the jaw.
- Don’t overwork your jaw: Avoid excessive gum chewing or using your teeth as tools, which can put unnecessary stress on the bone.
- Visit the dentist often: Regular visits every six months allow us to monitor your bone levels.
Our Approach To
Bone Health
We move beyond transactional care to provide a calm, welcoming environment where you can feel confident in your treatment. Dr. Alex Shafiey utilizes advanced clinical expertise and modern technology to detect early signs of bone loss before they become significant problems.
We wish more patients understood that jawbone health is a vital component of total body wellness. Our promise is to provide honest guidance and high-quality results that look natural and feel right. Experience the difference of refined, patient-first dentistry in DeSoto, TX. Call our office or book online today.