A Basic Guide on Jaw and Gum Resorption
Posted on 4/12/2021 by Thomas Wold, DMD |
 Good oral health requires healthy gums and jawbone. However, there are multiple factors that can make your jawbone and gums deteriorate. This process is known as resorption.
Let us understand what causes jaw and gum resorption.
What Causes Bone and Gum Resorption?
Our jawbone retains its quality and quantity with the help of activities like biting and chewing. These activities place pressure on the jaw that is needed to help it develop and remain strong. However, if you lose a tooth, the part of the jawbone that housed that tooth loses its stimulus. As a result, your body thinks you no longer need the calcium in that site and will start breaking down that portion of your jawbone. This is known as bone resorption.
That doesn't mean you will loseall the bone at that site. The new bone will continue to form but it will do so at a much slower rate than it is being destroyed. Your jawbone mass will decrease by 25% in the first year of tooth loss. As a result, your jawbone will lose its density and will become “soft.”
Aside from this, many other factors also cause jaw and gum resorption. These include:
| • |
Periodontitis: Periodontitis is the inflammation of the gums that occurs because of bacterial plaque. If this disease is not treated, it can lead to severe gum damage and in time, jawbone damage as well. As a result, you will ultimately lose your teeth.
|
| • |
Osteoporosis: This is a condition that affects the bones of your whole body, including teeth. People with osteoporosis may experience a brittle jawbone.
|
| • |
Infection: An infection or disease, like a lesion, cyst, or tumor, can result in jaw resorption as well.
|
| • |
Trauma: If you experience a severe blow to your face, it may result in jaw fractures or damage to the bone. If not treated properly, it can lead to bone loss. |
Complications Arising From Bone and Gum Resorption
Gum and jawbone loss can lead to a wide variety of complications, including lost teeth, inability to get dental implants, problems wearing dentures, and collapsing of your facial structure. In addition, unhealthy gums can also have negative effects on your overall health and can increase the risk of diseases like stroke, heart attack, diabetes, and even more.
Fortunately, Thomas E. Wold, DMD and at Aesthetic Dentistry of Bend can recommend a wide variety of treatment options that can deteriorate your gum and jawbone health. If you are concerned about the health of your gums and jaw, call us at (541) 389-0261 today.
|
|
