The Importance of Teeth for Jaw Bone Health
When one or more teeth are missing, it can lead to jaw bone loss at the site of the gap. This loss of jaw bone can develop into additional problems, both with your appearance and your overall health. You may experience pain, problems with your remaining teeth, and altered facial appearance, and eventually even the inability to speak and eat normally.
In that same way that muscles are maintained through exercise, bone tissue is maintained by use. Natural teeth are embedded in the jaw bone, and stimulate the jawbone through activities such as chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the alveolar bone, or the portion of the jaw bone that anchors the teeth in the mouth, no longer receives the necessary stimulation and begins to break down or resorb. The body no longer uses or “needs” the jaw bone, so it deteriorates and goes away.
It's natural for your jawbone to weaken with age or with the loss of a tooth. But our experienced oral surgeons can restore your bone to prepare you for dental implant placement. Don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment.
Nacogdoches Office Lufkin Office AppointmentsPotential Consequences of Tooth and Jaw Bone Loss
- Problems with remaining teeth, including, misalignment, drifting, loosening and loss
- Collapsed facial profile
- Limited lip support
- Skin wrinkling around the mouth
- Distortion of other facial features
- Jaw (temporomandibular joint TMJ) pain, facial pain, and headaches
- Difficulty speaking and communicating
- Inadequate nutrition as a result of the inability to chew properly and painlessly
- Sinus expansion
If you have any further questions about your jab bone health, or wish to schedule an appointment, please call our office: Nacogdoches: Nacogdoches Office Phone Number 936-569-1111 and Lufkin: Lufkin Office Phone Number 936-632-4444.