You’ve been needing a reliable set of dentures to replace your missing teeth for quite some time. No judgement – life happens, and sometimes getting the dental care you need is challenging. But you should know that time may not have been very kind to your jawbone. Possible deterioration could make it a bit more difficult to wear dentures.
That said, your dentist might still be able to help, so keep scrolling!
What Causes Jawbone Loss?
Technically, many things can cause jawbone loss, like health conditions that affect your bone density or traumatic injuries. A more common cause, though, is tooth loss.
Natural teeth are attached to dental roots, which are hidden below the gumline and imbedded in your jawbone. This not only keeps your tooth firmly fixed in place, but also enables stimulation to be transferred from your tooth to your jawbone when you chew. Stimulation helps the bone circulate and receive essential nutrients. Unfortunately, missing teeth mean that your jawbone can’t sustain itself, and so it gradually deteriorates.
Why is Jawbone Mass Important for Dentures?
If dentures rest on your gums, what does your jawbone have to do with anything? Your jawbone is what defines your oral structure; in other words, it’s what “holds up” your gum tissue. If the bone is too thin or weak, dentures will likely not sit in your mouth quite right and won’t make for a very comfortable or durable restoration. You might have to visit the dentist more often for adjustments and repairs.
Can My Dentist Help?
Have no fear, though! There’s more than one way to wear a denture. Your dentist can attach your dentures to dental implants, making your restoration an implant denture. Since dental implant posts mimic natural tooth roots, they’re able to provide jawbone stimulation and prevent further shrinkage. Dental implants will also make sure your dentures stay fixed in place when you eat and speak. Another option could be to get a bone graft, which will use bone matter from a secondary source to add mass to your jaw.
If you’ve experienced significant jawbone loss, you may have to go through a few additional steps to receive comfortable, lasting dentures. But rest assured, it will be worth it to have a beautiful, functional smile!
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller is a highly experienced and dedicated dentist. Having practiced in the field of dentistry for over 40 years now, he’s built up quite the resume, which includes completing all seven advanced training courses at the Pankey Institute and receiving Fellowship and Mastership Awards from the Academy of General Dentistry. If anyone can assess your jawbone mass and provide you with quality dentures, it’s Dr. Voller! To schedule a consultation, you can call his office directly at 724-543-4948 or submit a request online.