Low bone density or bone loss is one of the major reasons why some dental patients do not make good candidates for certain treatments. There are various reasons for bone loss, but the most common one is one or more missing teeth that have not been treated or replaced. Natural teeth help your jawbone become strong through biting and chewing. 

When you have one or more missing teeth, the specific area does not receive any stimulation; thus, there is no bone growth. The longer you go without replacing your bone, the more deterioration follows. Within the first year of your tooth loss and no replacement, your jawbone deteriorates by about 25% and continues. If you have missing teeth, consider 24 hr dental implants today. 

Reasons for Low Bone Density or Bone Loss

• Tooth loss and extractions 

Tooth loss and extractions can cause significant bone loss. When you chew food with the help of your teeth, your jawbone receives stimulation, which in turn makes it stronger and denser. However, when you lose one or more teeth and do not get them replaced in time, your jawbone stops receiving stimulation and begins to deteriorate. The alveolar starts to break down and continues until the day you get treated. 

• Periodontal diseases

Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, can cause damage to the support of natural teeth. Such diseases are formed due to the severe accumulation of bacteria, plaque, and tartar in the mouth. If not treated on time, they can lead to gum inflammation, the formation of pockets, the gradual deterioration of gum tissues, and bone support loss. All of this can lead to tooth loss.

• Dentures or bridgework 

Loose dentures can often lead to jawbone problems because they do not stimulate the bone beneath as necessary. The lack of stimulation causes bone loss and prevents the individual from eating and speaking properly, which is why they are called “loose dentures”. Loose dentures must be addressed on time or can cause severe bone loss down the lane. 

• Trauma

Trauma or accidents can damage your jawbone as well. When your tooth gets knocked out or breaks so that no biting surface is left underneath the gum line, there is no bone stimulation, eventually leading to bone loss. This is why it is important to see your dentist immediately after an accident where you suspect your teeth were injured. Sometimes, bone graft surgery may be necessary to prevent bone deterioration. 

If you have less jawbone density, visit a dentist today.