Bone Loss Normal with Age

Bone Loss and Aging

It is normal to experience a change in the bone structure when we age. Around the age of 30, our bone density begins to decrease. Changes in our hormones also impact the strength of our bones over time. In addition, the content of our bones slowly begins to change. Patients will experience normal changes in their bones during the natural aging process.

Historically, we considered things like thin lips, a sunken jaw, decreased facial muscles, and an impacted profile all to be part of the natural aging process. In reality, this sunken-in or collapsed appearance was actually the result of bone loss in the jaw. In order to maintain good oral health and your appearance, it is vital to maintain the size and density of the jawbone. Below is a summary of best practices for maintaining a healthy jawbone as you age and common causes for bone loss.

Oral Health

Good oral health is critical for maintaining healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth at least twice daily and flossing daily. Patients should also make routine visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and examination. Good oral hygiene is also important for the prevention of cavities and other oral health issues. Many patients don’t realize that neglecting the teeth can lead to issues such as tooth loss. Over time, tooth loss can progress to bone loss and result in serious consequences.

Bone Loss

The jaw relies on stimulation from biting and chewing in order to maintain healthy bone tissue. This tissue plays the vital role of supporting the teeth. When a patient is missing a tooth, this lack of stimulation results in shrinking of the bone and deterioration. This process is called bone resorption, where the body absorbs the bone. One popular treatment option is a dental implant, which provides the necessary stimulation required to prevent bone loss in the jaw.

In cases where a patient has significant bone loss, the dental professional may suggest a bone graft. This can aid in achieving the bone density needed for the placement of an implant. Prompt treatment of a missing tooth helps avoid the need for this.

Gum Disease

Gum or periodontal disease is one of the most common causes of jaw bone loss. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease and can be reversed with proper treatment and care. When it remains untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis causes pockets to form between the teeth and gums. These pockets easily accumulate bacteria and can result in infection, which can quickly damage the bone structure.

Dental professionals can use various treatments to restore the gums and reverse the consequences of gum disease. This may include a deep cleaning, antibiotics, and surgery or grafting. A graft can effectively replace lost bone tissue and promote the regeneration of healthy tissue.

Modern advancements and increased knowledge help us to maintain oral health and prevent bone loss. This can be managed with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and medication in some cases. Patients who have lost a tooth or those with gum disease are at an increased risk for bone loss.

Patients who have a missing tooth or those who are concerned that they are experiencing bone loss should contact the office right away. Our team can complete an evaluation to determine if there are any underlying issues and ensure you can maintain good oral health. Severe bone loss does not need to be a normal sign of aging. We look forward to working with you to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

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