Reasons for Jaw Bone Loss and Deterioration
Jaw bone loss is more common than many people realize—and it can have a significant impact on your overall oral health, appearance, and treatment options. At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Gulfport, MS, we treat a variety of patients experiencing bone deterioration and provide expert surgical solutions to help restore and protect the jawbone.
The jawbone needs regular stimulation—typically from chewing forces transmitted by natural teeth or dental implants—to remain healthy. Without it, the bone begins to resorb, or shrink, causing structural changes in the mouth and face. Let’s explore the most common causes.
Tooth Extractions
When a tooth is lost or removed and not replaced, the surrounding bone no longer receives stimulation. Within the first year, up to 25% of bone in the area may be lost. Over time, this can complicate your ability to receive dental implants or properly fitted dentures. Bone grafting is often recommended at the time of extraction to preserve the socket.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is a leading cause of adult tooth loss—and one of the most common sources of bone loss. As the disease progresses, it destroys the supporting structures around the teeth, including the alveolar bone. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to severe bone damage and tooth instability.
Dentures/Bridgework
While removable dentures and bridges help restore aesthetics and some function, they don’t stimulate the jawbone like natural teeth or implants. Over time, this lack of stimulation results in ongoing bone resorption, which may cause dentures to fit poorly and affect facial structure.
Facial Trauma
Accidents or injuries to the face can cause jaw fractures or tooth loss, leading to localized bone loss if not addressed surgically. Trauma can also disrupt blood supply to the bone, contributing to long-term deterioration.
Misalignment
Improper bite alignment can place excessive pressure on certain teeth and bone areas, while other areas receive little to no stimulation. This uneven force distribution may gradually weaken bone structure and increase the risk of resorption in underused areas.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a serious bacterial infection of the bone, often resulting from untreated infections or trauma. In the jaw, this condition can lead to inflammation, pain, and progressive bone loss that requires surgical removal of the affected bone tissue and antibiotic treatment.
Tumors
Both benign and malignant tumors in the jaw can displace or destroy bone tissue. Even after removal, patients often require bone grafting or reconstructive surgery to restore the structural integrity of the jaw.
Developmental Deformities
Certain congenital conditions, such as cleft lip and palate or other skeletal anomalies, can impact the growth and formation of the jawbone. These deformities may result in insufficient bone for dental support and require surgical correction.
Sinus Deficiencies
When upper back teeth are lost, the sinus cavity above can expand downward—a condition known as pneumatization. This reduces the available bone height for implants. In such cases, a sinus lift or graft may be needed to rebuild the area.