Dental Bone Loss
What Is Dental Bone Loss?
Dental bone loss, also known as periodontal bone loss or alveolar bone loss, refers to the loss of bone tissue that supports the teeth. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including gum disease, poor oral hygiene, and tooth loss.
When dental bone loss occurs, the gums may recede, the teeth may become loose, and the bone tissue that supports the teeth may start to atrophy and shrink away. This can lead to serious dental problems, including tooth loss, if left untreated. Moreover, having insufficient dental bone volume can severely affect your changes of successful dental implant treatment.
Before you contact a Toronto dentist to examine Dental Bone Loss, there are some things you should know as a patient:
- Why Do I Have Dental Bone Loss?
- Signs And Symptoms Of Dental Bone Loss
- Treatment Options For Dental Bone Loss
- How To Prevent Dental Bone Loss
- Managing Dental Bone Loss Until You Can See The Dentist
- Recommended Oral Hygiene Products For Dental Bone Loss
If you have questions about Dental Bone Loss or other dental problems, please contact us for more information.
Why Do I Have Dental Bone Loss?
There are several factors that can contribute to dental bone loss. Some of the most common causes include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly can allow plaque and bacteria to build up in the mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease and dental bone loss.
- Gum Disease: Gingivitis and periodontitis are two forms of gum disease that can lead to dental bone loss. When bacteria build up in the mouth, they can cause inflammation and infection in the gums, which can eventually spread to the bone tissue that supports the teeth.
- Tooth Loss: When a tooth is lost or removed, the bone tissue that supported that tooth may start to deteriorate. Over time, this can lead to further tooth loss and bone loss.
- Cracked Tooth Syndrome or Vertical Root Fracture: The presence of a cracked tooth can cause a localized vertical loss of bone immediately around the cracked or broken tooth. Teeth that have sustained such damage cannot be saved and should be removed.
- Smoking: Smoking has been linked to a variety of dental problems, including gum disease and dental bone loss. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can weaken the immune system and damage the gum tissue, making it easier for bacteria to infect the gums and bone tissue.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to dental bone loss due to genetic factors. For example, certain gene variations can increase the risk of gum disease and other dental problems.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, can increase the risk of dental bone loss. Additionally, some medications used to treat other medical conditions can also affect dental health.
By understanding the factors that can contribute to dental bone loss, you can take steps to prevent this condition and protect your dental health. For more information about Dental Bone Loss, please contact us.
Signs and Symptoms of Dental Bone Loss
Dental bone loss can have a variety of symptoms, some of which may be subtle at first. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage:
- Receding Gums: As dental bone loss progresses, the gums may start to recede, making the teeth appear longer than normal.
- Loose Teeth: When the bone tissue that supports the teeth starts to deteriorate, the teeth may become loose or even fall out.
- Changes in Bite: Dental bone loss can cause changes in the way the teeth fit together when you bite or chew, which can affect your overall dental health.
- Tooth Sensitivity: As the gums recede and the tooth roots become exposed, you may experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Tooth Pain or Discomfort: In some cases, dental bone loss can cause pain or discomfort in the affected area.
- Bad Breath: As bacteria build up in the mouth, they can cause bad breath or a persistent bad taste.
Your dentist can help diagnose dental bone loss and develop a treatment plan to prevent further loss of gum and bone. For more information about the signs and symptoms of Dental Bone Loss, please contact us.
Treatment Options for Dental Bone Loss
The treatment for dental bone loss will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Some of the most common treatment options include:
- Teeth Cleaning: This deep cleaning procedure can help remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, allowing the gums to heal and preventing further bone loss.
- Bone Grafting: In more severe cases of dental bone loss, a bone graft may be necessary to replace the lost bone tissue and support the teeth.
- Periodontal Surgery: This surgical procedure can help reduce pocket depth and improve the health of the gums, preventing further bone loss.
- Tooth Extraction: In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted if it’s causing or contributing to the dental bone loss. Treatment options to replace missing teeth may include dental implants or dental bridges.
- Dental Implants: A dental implant is a surgically placed artificial tooth root that replaces a missing tooth. Implants provide a durable, long-lasting solution that looks and functions like a natural tooth. For implants to be a viable treatment option, sufficient bone volume is required. This can be assessed using a CBCT scan. If it is determined that there is insufficient bone, bone graft may be necessary. Alternatively, you may be a better candidate for dental bridges
- Dental Bridges: A bridge is a dental appliance that uses adjacent teeth to support a replacement tooth. Bridges are a popular option for those who cannot undergo implant surgery.
- Dentures: Dentures are removable appliances that replace one or more missing teeth. They can be partial, replacing only a few teeth, or full, replacing all the teeth in one or both jaws. This is sometimes the better option for patients with severe bone loss and cannot have dental implants.
If you are concerned about dental bone loss and want to learn more about your treatment options, do not hesitate to contact us. With proper treatment and care, you can protect your dental health and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
How to Prevent Dental Bone Loss
Prevention is key when it comes to dental bone loss. While some risk factors, such as genetics, are beyond your control, there are many steps you can take to protect your dental health and prevent dental bone loss. Here are some tips to help you prevent dental bone loss:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of dental bone loss, so quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your dental health.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients can help support dental health and prevent dental bone loss.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth and prevent dental bone loss.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental exams and teeth cleanings can help detect and prevent dental bone loss and other dental problems before they become more serious.
By taking these steps to protect your dental health, you can reduce your risk of dental bone loss and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, please contact us.
Managing Dental Bone Loss Until You Can See the Dentist
If you’re experiencing signs of dental bone loss and can’t see a dentist right away, there are still steps you can take to manage your symptoms and protect your dental health. Here are some tips for managing dental bone loss until you can see the dentist:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Keeping the area of bone loss as clean as possible can help temporarily prevent further bone loss. Brush and floss gently around the area of the missing tooth. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or mouthwash can help reduce infection, inflammation and alleviate toothache pain. You can buy any mouthwash available at your pharmacy or health foods store. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Use over-the-counter pain medication: Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve any pain or sensitivity. You are also welcome to use over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Ask your dentist what dosage is right for you, but if you do not have a pre-existing medical condition of allergies, 1000mg acetaminophen (Tylenol) with 600mg ibuprofen (Advil) every 4-6 hours or as needed is a very powerful combination.
- Use Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress to your face can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods to reduce pressure on your teeth and gums.
- Avoid Smoking: If you smoke cigarettes, avoid smoking because it can exacerbate bone loss until you can see a dentist.
It’s important to note that these tips are meant to manage symptoms temporarily until you can see a dentist. Dental bone loss can worsen without proper treatment. If you’re experiencing symptoms of dental bone loss, contact us for more information.
Recommended Oral Hygiene Products for Dental Bone Loss
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing and managing dental bone loss. Here are some recommended oral hygiene products that can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy:
- Toothbrush: Curaprox CS5460 Ultra Soft Swiss Toothbrush OR Electric Toothbrush: Philips Sonicare Protectiveclean 6100
- Floss: GUM ButlerWeave Dental Floss OR Sunstar 888JC GUM Advanced Care Flossers OR Oral-B Super Floss
- Water Floss: Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser
- Interdental Brushes: GUM Proxabrush
- Toothpaste: Crest Pro Health Gum Detoxify Deep Clean Toothpaste
- Mouthwash: Crest Gum Care Mouthwash Oral Rinse
By using these recommended oral hygiene products, you can help protect your dental health and prevent dental bone loss. However, it’s important to remember that good oral hygiene is just one part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. It’s also important to eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking, and see your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings. For more information about Dental Bone Loss management strategies, please contact us.
