Bone Loss Normal with Age
Bone change is a normal part of aging. Bone density begins decreasing around the age of thirty, hormonal changes impact bone strength, and the mineral content of bones can change. Some changes in your bones are often a normal part of the aging process.
In the past, a sunken jaw, thinner lips, sagging facial structure, and an altered profile were considered normal consequences of aging. This look was caused by jawbone loss. Now, maintaining the density in our jawbones is important for your appearance and your oral health.
Take Care of Your Teeth
By brushing twice a day, flossing daily, seeing your dentist for regular exams and cleanings, and following recommended dental hygiene practices, you are making sure you keep your teeth for a lifetime. Also, because tooth loss leads to bone loss, you are protecting your bones as well.
The jawbone, which supports your teeth, needs the constant stimulation of biting and chewing. Without that stimulation, the bone under a missing tooth shrinks. The bone tissue is resorbed into the body, which will lead to a sunken spot where the tooth was. A dental implant provides stimulation that a natural tooth would and prevents future bone loss. Even if bone tissue has been lost, your dentist can perform bone grafting to achieve the density to hold an implant.
Do Not Neglect Your Gum Health
A common cause of jawbone loss is periodontal disease. Gingivitis, left untreated, will lead to severe gum disease. This infection can cause deterioration in the bone structure supporting the teeth.
Schedule a dental exam to treat any signs of periodontitis. If you have any symptoms of gum disease, it is important to receive treatment to protect your gums, teeth, and jawbone.
Gingivitis can be reversible. Deep cleaning procedures, topical and oral antibiotics, and bone grafting can help reverse the effects of periodontitis.
Consider Implant-Supported Dentures
If you have suffered tooth loss that requires a denture, consider an implant. Dentures provide no stimulation to the jawbone, so normal bone resorption takes place. Dental implants will provide the same kind of pressure and stimulation to the jawbone that your natural teeth do. The restoration is securely attached to the implant and maintains pressure on the bone. In addition to their natural appearance and secure fit, preventing bone loss is a terrific additional benefit of choosing dental implants.
Do Not Ignore Bone Loss
With the continued introduction of innovative technology, we can now combat normal bone aging with diet, exercise, and medication. We now know that bone loss is not an inevitable part of the aging process.
If you have lost a tooth or have suffered an abscess or serious gum disease, you may be at risk for bone loss. Besides making us look older, a shrinking jaw will affect your speech, eating, and the alignment of your remaining teeth.
You can do a lot to keep your teeth and gums healthy, which will prevent bone loss and keep your jawbone and your profile healthy as well.