WHAT IS BONE LOSS?
Reabsorption of jawbone structure
Jawbone structure is maintained due to the signals that are sent to the bone when our teeth bite and chew
When teeth are lost due to infection ("periodontitis") or trauma, the jawbone is left without a tooth root to transfer pressure signals. These signals are necessary for the bone to maintain it's structure and strength. Without them, the body begins to irreversibly reabsorb the jawbone leading to permanent reshaping of the jaw.

Functional concerns with jawbone loss
NEGATIVE EFFECTS YOU MIGHT NOT EXPECT
Jawbone loss is a concern for the function of your teeth and bite for a few reasons. When an area of jawbone is receding due to bone loss, the teeth surrounding the space of the missing tooth will begin to shift and tilt into the gap, disrupting how your teeth fit together naturally. Over time, as the bone loss continues, the shifting neighboring teeth can become loose and fall out as well. Jawbone loss in one area due to the loss of a single tooth begins a chain reaction of further bone loss and further tooth loss. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that will fully maintain the structure and function of the lost tooth as well as the jawbone that supports it.
Esthetic concerns with bone loss
JAWBONE LOSS CAN CAUSE A SUNKEN APPEARANCE TO THE FACE
Studies have shown that as bone loss progresses, it can decrease the height of jawbone structure to 1/4 of it's original height. This bone loss occurs quickly, with about 25% of the loss occurring within the first year following the loss of the tooth. The height of jawbone not only changes the shape of the jaw internally, but also drastically changes the facial appearance externally along the lower aspect of the face. If you have ever seen someone without their full dentures in, then you have witnessed these facial changes. While wearing dentures or partial bridges, the lower face can appear to have maintained its shape, however when the denture is removed, the changes are apparent.
VIDEO: Jawbone loss
WATCH TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE STEP BY STEP PROCESS
Compare your options

Dental Implants
Dental implants are the best way to permanently replace missing teeth without affecting neighboring teeth.

Dental Bridges
A permanent and cost effective option for replacing missing teeth to get a beautiful smile.

Partial Dentures
A removable, yet natural looking option for replacing missing teeth on a budget.
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