As time passes, the jawbone associated with a missing tooth or teeth may undergo atrophy or reabsorption. This can result in a situation where the remaining bone lacks both quality and quantity, making it challenging to use dental implants. Consequently, many patients facing this issue may need to be more viable candidates for dental implant placement. Fortunately, advancements now enable us to stimulate the growth of replacement bone in areas where it is required. This breakthrough offers a novel approach, allowing for the placement of implants with the correct dimensions. It not only restores functionality but also enhances the aesthetic appearance of the teeth.
Bone grafting addresses implant sites lacking the necessary bone structure, often due to injuries, gum disease, damage, or previous extractions. The bone required for grafting can be sourced from the jaw, hip, tibia, or a tissue bank. In cases where damage has occurred at the back of the upper jaw, sinus bone grafts may be utilized. Guided bone regeneration, also known as guided tissue regeneration, involves using specialized membranes that dissolve under the gums, protecting the bone graft, preventing further damage, and promoting regeneration.
These procedures are typically employed to rectify defects resulting from severe traumatic injuries, congenital disabilities, or tumour surgery. The patient’s bone mass from various locations on their body may be used for more substantial defects. Such procedures occur in an operating room and are followed by a hospital stay to ensure adequate recovery.
The absence of teeth can reduce the jawbone at the gap site, giving rise to various complications that impact overall health and appearance. Individuals experiencing these gaps may face issues with their remaining teeth, discomfort, facial changes, and, gradually, challenges in speaking and eating normally. Addressing these concerns as soon as possible is vital to avoid future consequences.
Consistent use is vital for maintaining and fortifying bone tissue akin to muscles. Natural teeth play a crucial role in this process, as they directly integrate into the jawbone and participate in routine activities such as chewing and biting, providing the necessary stimulation to uphold bone strength. However, when a tooth or multiple teeth are missing, the requisite jawbone stimulation decreases, initiating a process of breakdown or reabsorption. Without adequate stimulation, the body perceives the jawbone as unnecessary, leading to its deterioration.
The following are the most common causes for jawbone deterioration and loss leading to the possible requirement of a bone grafting procedure:
The primary cause of jawbone deterioration necessitating bone grafting is often tooth extractions. Gaps resulting from tooth extractions lead to an unstimulated jaw, triggering the decline of the bone. The extent of damage varies significantly from one person to another. Typically, the process begins within the initial eighteen months following an extraction, with complications persisting throughout the patient’s lifetime, albeit at varying rates.
Jawbone loss can also arise from periodontal disease, characterized by persistent gum infections gradually undermining the support for natural teeth. Periodontal disease affects various periodontal tissues, including the gingiva, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. While multiple diseases can impact tooth-supporting structures, most periodontal issues originate from the inflammatory response triggered by plaque. This condition is classified into periodontitis and gingivitis, a milder form that may precede periodontitis.
Gingivitis is primarily induced by dental plaque, a combination of food particles and bacteria adhering to teeth along the gum line. This sticky film accumulates swiftly, resulting in gum irritation, inflammation, redness, and bleeding. Prolonged neglect of dental hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, allows plaque to solidify into calculus or tartar. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, where bacteria attach to teeth, and the body’s immune response contributes to the degradation of gum tissue, jawbone loss, tooth loosening, and eventual tooth loss.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, is crucial to thwart the advancement of gingivitis to periodontitis. Routine dental check-ups are pivotal in early detection and intervention, promoting oral health and minimizing the risk of jawbone loss.
