We all know that a healthy smile requires decay-free teeth and healthy gums, but how often do we appreciate our jaw bone? Our teeth need a strong firm foundation to remain healthy and beautiful.
Today’s post looks at bone recession in Missoula. Occasionally, a patient experiences bone recession in their jaw which can cause tooth loss and other issues. However, it is commonly the other way around. Bone loss occurs as a result of a lost tooth because the blood supply and stimulus necessary for maintaining healthy bone has been taken away. Let’s look at the most common causes of jaw bone recession in Missoula.
Extracted Teeth
Bone is living tissue and needs stimulation to stay healthy and retain its size and density. Biting, chewing, talking and all the other normal mouth functions keep the portion of the bone surrounding the tooth root healthy. When a tooth is extracted, the bone that used to anchor the tooth root recedes as if it understands that it is no longer needed. A dental implant provides stimulation similar to the natural tooth and can prohibit bone recession in Missoula.
Gum Infection
A gum infection can result when gum inflammation goes untreated and progresses to periodontitis. With periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth creating pockets which provide the perfect breeding ground for the detrimental infection.
Gum infections can advance undetected, though there are usually warning signs. Swollen, painful gums, loose teeth, and gums that bleed when brushed are symptoms of periodontitis. The infection dissolves bone as the gums pull away from the tooth. Inadequate oral hygiene increase the risk of gum disease but other factors can compromise gum health. These include smoking, hormone levels, diseases that lower immune system effectiveness, medications that cause dry mouth, and genetic predisposition.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a pus-filled pocket of infection that occurs in the nerve and roots of a tooth. As the infection attacks the tooth and bone tissue it creates a space that fills with pus. There are several treatments for a tooth abscess including antibiotics to kill the infection, a root canal, or extraction, if necessary.
If you have experienced bone recession in Missoula due to gum disease, an abscess, an extracted tooth, or any other reason, let’s talk about your options. You may benefit from a dental implant, soft tissue grafts, or bone grafts. Dental implants can significantly improve your quality of life and prevent further recession. If you’re interested in general and family dentistry services, call 406-728-0896 to make an appointment for an informative exam and consult.
Contact Felton Dental Care:
406-728-0896
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1750 Brooks St
Missoula, Montana
59801
Follow Us
Write A Review