Your jawbone is the foundation that supports your teeth and facial structure. Healthy jawbone tissue plays an essential role in chewing, speaking and maintaining your overall oral health. Without proper stimulation, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate — a condition that may occur slowly and often without pain until more serious issues arise. At Petaluma Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we are committed to helping you preserve and restore your jawbone to support long-term dental function and facial aesthetics.
What Causes Jawbone Loss?
There are several key reasons why jawbone deterioration may occur. The most common cause is tooth loss. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the bone that once supported that tooth no longer receives stimulation from chewing or biting. Over time, this can lead to resorption of the bone in that area.
Periodontal disease is another major contributor. This condition starts with gum inflammation and can progress to affect the bone that anchors the teeth. Without timely treatment, periodontal disease can destroy the supporting structures of your mouth.
Trauma, such as a fracture or injury to the jaw or teeth, can also cause bone loss. When damage prevents proper function or leads to tooth loss, the bone may weaken or recede.
Other Factors Contributing to Bone Loss
Removable dentures that rest on the gums do not transmit the same kind of pressure to the bone as natural teeth or implant-supported restorations. This lack of stimulation may cause the bone beneath to slowly deteriorate. Similarly, dental bridges that do not integrate with the jawbone offer no direct reinforcement.
Infection within the bone, such as osteomyelitis, or removal of tissue due to tumors may result in significant bone loss as well. Additionally, some individuals experience bone development issues or have congenital deformities that impact jaw health.
How We Can Help Restore Jawbone Tissue
Dr. Jiries Mogannam, Dr. Vicente Chavez, Dr. Christopher Chow and Dr. William Verlinden offer bone grafting and other regenerative procedures to rebuild areas where bone has been lost. These treatments may be necessary to prepare for dental implants or to restore facial symmetry and function. In cases where the upper jawbone has reabsorbed near the sinuses, we may recommend a sinus lift to restore sufficient bone volume.
Whether you are experiencing bone loss due to trauma, disease or missing teeth, we encourage you to seek treatment early. Restoring the jawbone can help you maintain a healthier bite, improve the success of restorative treatments and enhance your appearance.
For more information about jawbone preservation and treatment in Petaluma, California, contact our office at 707-769-1414 and schedule a consultation with our experienced oral surgeons.
