Reasons for Jaw Bone Loss and Deterioration


Tooth Extractions:



Periodontal Disease:

Periodontal diseases are chronic infections of the gums that gradually destroy the support of your teeth. Periodontal diseases affect one or more of the periodontal tissues: alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, cementum, and gingiva.

While there are many diseases which affect the tooth-supporting structures, plaque-induced inflammatory lesions make up the majority of periodontal diseases.   Dental plaque is a sticky colorless film, composed primarily of bacteria, which adhere to your teeth at and below the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth, even minutes after cleaning. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins which irritate the gums.  The gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets (spaces) to form. If daily brushing and flossing are neglected, plaque can harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line and exacerbates the irritation to the gums and bone surrounding the teeth.

Periodontal diseases can be divided into two categories: gingivitis and periodontitis.  Gingivitis, the least advanced of the periodontal diseases, affects only the soft tissue (gums) surrounding the teeth.  If untreated, gingivitis will usually progress to periodontitis.  Periodontitis affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. In later stages of periodontitis, the supporting bone is destroyed and the teeth will shift, loosen, or fall out. These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak but also spoil your smile.

Periodontal diseases are often painless and symptomless. 80% of Americans will be afflicted with some form of  periodontal disease by age 45, and 4 out of 5 patients with the disease are unaware they have it.





By completing a bone graft procedure, our surgeons are now able to restore bone function and growth, thereby halting the effects of poor denture care.











Developmental Deformities:


Sinus Deficiencies:

When molars are removed from the upper jaw, air pressure from the air cavity in the maxilla (maxillary sinus) causes resorption of the bone that formerly helped the teeth in place. As a result, the sinuses become enlarged, a condition called pneumatization of the sinus.


Potential Consequences of Tooth and Jawbone Loss

  • Collapsed facial profile
  • Limited lip support
  • Skin wrinkling around the mouth
  • Distortion of other facial features
  • Difficulty speaking and communicating
  • Sinus expansion