Our bodies are constantly rebuilding themselves at a cellular level. Portions of older bone get removed through a process called resorption, and new bone is put in place through ossification. When we are young, ossification is working at a higher level than resorption, which results in healthy, growing bodies. As we mature, both of these processes are in relative balance, affected mainly by our diet and exercise. Resorption and ossification are also vital to teeth alignment, or orthodontics, with braces or clear aligners like Invisalign.
But as we age past our prime, these processes swing out of balance with resorption happening more often than ossification. Some of us begin to lose bone faster than it is replaced, resulting in osteoporosis and a higher risk of broken bones. When it comes to teeth, this imbalance deteriorates the jawbones, taking away the foundation of your teeth. Oral bacteria, gum disease and malnutrition further accelerate bone loss.
Recovery from Jawbone Loss
Treating this issue largely depends on the cause. The professional dentists at the Placerville Dental Group can help determine the source of your bone loss. Treatments like bone grafting or prescription medications can help restore the foundation needed for your teeth. If tooth loss has resulted in gaps or holes in the jawbone, bone graft material can be inserted into place at your jaw, gradually reinforcing it.
Even if you fill that gap with more bone, it deteriorates unless you stimulate and maintain that area. Dental implants are just the thing to keep jawbone strong when teeth are missing. Implants get rooted into that new bone, just like your original teeth. As you bite and chew with dental implants, the action stimulates the new bone in your jaw and sends signals for your body to act. Using specialized cells called osteoblasts, your body increases ossification to strengthen bone in the areas where it needs to be reinforced. Not only do you maintain your jawbone, but you no longer have missing teeth – your smile is complete!
Prevention of Jawbone Loss
One of the best ways to prevent jawbone loss is maintaining your routine of brushing twice a day, along with flossing and using mouthwash. Doing so keeps bacteria from eating away at teeth and bone and stimulates gum tissues. This helps to prevent gingivitis, tooth decay and gum recession. It is also important to visit our Placerville dentists at least twice each year to monitor your jawbone health.
No Need to Lose Out on Jawbone
Changes in our bones are a normal part of aging, and medical conditions may complicate the issue. Nevertheless, the family dentists at our Placerville dental clinic are happy to help you identify the condition of your teeth, gums and jaw. With experience and years of training, we can find the best option to rebuild bone loss in your jaw and reinforce the foundation for your teeth. To find out what options are best for you, give our office a call or schedule an appointment online.
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