We all know that a healthy smile requires decay-free teeth and healthy gums, but how often do we appreciate our jaw bone? Our teeth need a strong firm foundation to remain healthy and beautiful.
Today’s post looks at bone recession. Occasionally, a patient experiences bone recession in their jaw which can cause tooth loss and other troubles. However, it is generally the other way around. The bone loss occurs as a result of a lost tooth because the blood supply and stimulus required for maintaining healthy bone is taken away. Let’s look at a few common causes for jaw bone recession in Comstock Park, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker, and Rockford, MI.
Extracted Teeth
Your bone is a living tissue and needs stimulation to stay healthy and retain its size and density. Biting, chewing, talking and all the other normal mouth functions keep the portion of the bone surrounding the tooth root healthy. When a tooth is extracted, the bone that used to anchor the tooth root recedes as if it understands that it is no longer needed. A dental implant provides stimulation similar to that of a natural tooth and can prevent bone recession.
Gum Infection
A gum infection can result when gum inflammation goes untreated and progresses to periodontitis. With periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth creating pockets which provide the perfect breeding ground for the dangerous infection. Gum infections can proceed undetected, though there are usually warning signs. Swollen, painful gums, loose teeth, and gums that bleed when brushed are symptoms of periodontitis. The infection dissolves bone as the gums pull away from the tooth. Inadequate oral hygiene increases the risk of gum disease but other factors can compromise gum health. These include smoking, hormone levels, diseases that lower immune system effectiveness, medications that cause dry mouth, and genetic predisposition. If you suspect that you have periodontitis, schedule an appointment with our office for a thorough evaluation and we’ll discuss gum disease treatment options with you.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a pus-filled pocket of infection that occurs in the nerve and roots of a tooth. As the infection attacks the tooth, bone, and tissue it creates a space that fills with pus. There are several treatments for a tooth abscess including antibiotics to kill the infection, a root canal, or extraction if needed.
If you have experienced bone recession due to gum disease or an abscess, or if you have had a tooth extracted please call our office to discuss your options. You may benefit from a dental implant, soft tissue grafts, or bone grafts. At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, dental implants can significantly improve your quality of life and prohibit further recession. Call 616-784-2377 to make an appointment for an informative exam and consultation.
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