What is Jawbone Resorption?

Jawbone resorption is a condition that occurs when the jawbone is unable to regenerate or loses bone tissue over time. This condition is usually caused by tooth loss or edentulism. Jawbone resorption can develop when teeth lose pressure on the jawbone or when lost teeth are not replaced.

Jawbone resorption can progress slowly following tooth loss or tooth loss and often goes unnoticed. Therefore, it is important to consult a dentist or oral, dental and maxillofacial surgeon in case of tooth loss or suspected jawbone resorption. Appropriate treatment methods can help rebuild lost bone tissue or help manage the condition.

What are the Symptoms of Jawbone Resorption?

Symptoms of jawbone resorption are problems that are usually recognized later in life and occur after tooth loss. These symptoms indicate that resorption has started or is progressing. Symptoms may include the following conditions:

• Swaying teeth,
• Gingival retraction,
• Change of jaw line,
• Prostheses failing to hold,
• Pain, tenderness or discomfort in the jaw area.

Symptoms can vary from person to person and may not be recognized in the early stages. That's why it's important to consult a dentist when tooth loss or suspected jawbone resorption occurs. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent or slow progression.

Causes of Jawbone Resorption

It is a condition that can occur for a variety of reasons. These causes can be associated with loss of pressure on the jawbone or destruction of bone tissue. Some of the common causes of jawbone resorption are:

Teeth Loss: Tooth loss is one of the most common causes of tooth loss. Teeth help maintain pressure on the jawbone. When one or more teeth are lost, this pressure is lost and the jawbone begins to break down over time.
Teethlessness: In cases of complete edentulism, or when most teeth are missing, the risk is higher. The absence of teeth causes a large loss of pressure on the jawbone.

Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, can lead to inflammation of the gums and supporting tissues and jawbone loss.

Improper Prosthetic Use: When prostheses (such as dentures or bridges) are not properly designed or applied, the pressure on the jawbone is not properly transmitted. Such misapplications can increase the risk.

Improper Dental Cleaning: Without regular cleaning of the teeth and gums, bacteria can lead to gum disease, which in turn can cause jawbone resorption.

Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy: Some cancer treatments can have adverse effects on the jawbone and cause bone loss.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can affect bone density and contribute to jaw bone loss.

How to treat jawbone resorption

Treatment for osteoporosis of the jawbone can vary depending on the causes and severity of bone loss and the patient's general health. Treatment may be aimed at rebuilding the lost bone tissue of the jawbone or slowing its progression. Some of the treatment methods include:

Bone Grafts: Bone grafts can be used if there is too much bone loss. During this procedure, bone or synthetic bone material from another bone source is placed into weak or missing areas of the jawbone. This can help to compensate for bone loss and rebuild the jawbone.
Dental Implants: For missing teeth, dental implants are placed in the missing area of the jawbone. These implants provide pressure on the jawbone and prevent bone loss.

Prostheses and Bridges:
Medications:
Gum Surgery: Gum surgery may be required when advanced gum disease or periodontitis occurs due to periodontitis. These surgical procedures can help reorganize the jawbone and gum tissue.

Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help maintain bone health. This can include factors such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and not smoking.

How to Prevent Jawbone Resorption

To prevent or reduce the risk of jawbone resorption, you can take the following measures:

Regular Dental Care: Brushing your teeth regularly, flossing and using mouthwash can help prevent gum disease. Healthy gums help maintain pressure on the jawbone.

Dental Checkups: It is important to visit your dentist regularly. A dental check-up and cleaning can detect and treat gum disease or tooth decay, which can be diagnosed at an early stage.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking cigarettes and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can damage gum health and contribute to bone loss. It is important to avoid these substances.

Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can support bone health. It is especially important to eat foods that contain nutrients that are important for bone health, such as calcium and vitamin D.

Regular Exercise: Regular exercise promotes bone health. Physical activity is important to keep bones healthy.

Rapid Intervention in Case of Tooth Loss: When tooth loss occurs, it is important that treatments such as replacing missing teeth or dental implants are carried out quickly. This can help maintain pressure on the jawbone.

Regular Dental X-rays: Your dentist can take regular dental X-rays to assess your jawbone and dental health. This can help detect potential problems early.