What Causes Bone Loss In The Jaw?

There are several reasons that bone loss in the jaw can occur. Many times it is due to a natural process called resorption. Resorption is when the bone “melts away” over time due to the lack of stress on the bone caused by a natural tooth. In other words, if you are missing a tooth your jaw bone will disappear over time. This is because the stress and pressure that your tooth root places on the underlying bone actually stimulates it, causing it to naturally regenerate over time in a process called remodeling.

Other common causes of bone loss in the jaw can include:

  • Periodontal disease including gingivitis
  • Dentures and bridgework that do not stimulate the bone
  • Trauma such as knocked out teeth

Will Dental Implants Stop Bone Loss?

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed in your jaw bone. The surface of a dental implant is roughened to facilitate integration with the surrounding bone. This is known as osseointegration.

Once a dental implant has been placed in the jaw, and a crown has been placed on the implant it will function as a natural tooth. The titanium implant will add stress to the jaw bone and, therefore, stimulate the body to continue the normal remodeling process. This is how dental implants stop bone loss and help the body maintain its natural processes.

Dental implants have become extremely popular over the last couple of decades, with good reason. With success rates reported as high as 98% dental implants are a well established course of treatment for any adult who happens to be missing one or multiple teeth. Dr. Emery has reported similar success rates with dental implants.

Statistics show that 69% of all adults 35-44 years old have lost at least one tooth. With proper care and maintenance one advantage of dental implants is that they can last a lifetime.

Additional advantages of dental implants include:

  • Improved appearance
  • Improved comfort
  • Improved speech
  • Improved self-esteem
  • Overall better oral health, vs dental bridges
  • Convenience and comfort vs dentures

The benefits of dental implants have become clear to many. However, there is one thing that is necessary for any individual to be a candidate for dental implants, and that is an adequate supply of bone in the jaw. You could be surprised to learn that you have bone loss in your jaw.

To learn more about dental implants, please request a consultation with Dr. Emery at (202) 386-7100.