Bone loss

Bone loss refers to a decrease in bone structure and solidity surrounding the roots of the teeth; this is often a result of gum disease. Gum disease is caused by poor oral hygiene, most importantly a lack of brushing which subsequently leads to a build up of plaque and bacteria. Many symptoms of gum disease are fairly mild and are often ignored by many people; this is dangerous as the implications of gum disease can be extremely serious if the disease is left to develop. Plaque not only affects the gums but also leads to a deterioration of the bone that connects the jaw to the teeth. In general, bone loss is most commonly associated with osteoporosis, a condition which decreases the density of the bones; however it is not found to have any significant impact on the teeth.

Bone Loss and Teeth

Teeth can also contribute to bone loss as infections in the teeth often spread to the bone causing it to be broken down. Bone loss can also be caused by tooth extraction, holes in the teeth known as cavitations, root canal treatment and a number of other medical conditions such as diabetes and tumours, although these are less common. Maintaining a high level of oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist frequently can prevent bone loss; it is also important to eat a healthy diet and boost your immune system as much as possible. In the vast majority of cases, the damage caused by bone loss cannot be repaired; eventually the bone will weaken to such an extent that the teeth may come loose and therefore fall out, this is called periodontis.

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