Jawbone loss, also known as jaw bone atrophy or resorption, can affect one’s quality of life. It can cause oral health problems, facial deformities and functional limitations. Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, based in Minneapolis MN, specializes in expert oral surgery procedures to assist with these issues. We are here to educate you about this condition and tell you about the surgical options that could help.
Understanding Jawbone Loss and Deterioration
Before diving into the specific surgical options, it’s essential to understand what we mean by “Addressing Jawbone Loss.” In simple terms, jawbone loss refers to the diminishing density and volume of your jawbone. When teeth are lost, the lack of stimulation that was once provided by chewing forces can cause the bone in your jaw to shrink over time.
Typically, factors such as periodontitis (gum disease), tooth extractions, injuries, traumas, tumors, or congenital disabilities can result in jawbone loss. Symptoms often include difficulty in speech or swallowing, deformities in the teeth or face, loosened teeth, or ill-fitting dentures.
Preliminary Evaluations
Any good course of treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. Our surgeons will carefully examine your oral health, strength of your remaining bone, and overall health before deciding the right treatment for you. Diagnostics often include:
- Reviewing your medical history.
- Conducting a physical examination.
- Perusing necessary X-Rays, CT scans or a Cone Beam CT scan.
- Analyzing bone density and volume.
Jawbone Regeneration: Surgical Options
Once the preliminary evaluation is complete, the surgeons at Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can recommend a few viable surgical options for addressing jawbone loss. These may include:
Bone Grafting
Often considered the ‘gold standard,’ bone grafts involve transplanting bone from another part of your body—or artificial bone—into your jaw. Over time, this can encourage new bone growth and development in the area.
Sinus Lift Procedure
If you’ve lost bone from your upper jaw—particularly in the back near your molars—a sinus lift can often help. Surgeons add bone below your sinus where it’s degraded, sometimes in combination with a bone graft.
Ridge Expansion
If your jaw isn’t wide enough to support dental implants, surgeons may undertake a procedure called ridge expansion. This process involves placing bone graft material into a small ridge, or space, created along the top of your jaw.
Distraction Osteogenesis
This procedure involves creating a small, controlled fracture and then slowly moving the two pieces of bone apart so new bone can grow in the space created. It’s an advanced technique usually reserved for larger defects or areas needing substantial restructuring.
Considering Dental Implants
Post-surgery, dental implants are often an ideal solution for many patients who have suffered from jawbone loss. A dental implant replaces both a missing tooth and its root, maintaining stimulation to your jawbone and helping to prevent further deterioration.
However, the oral surgeons at Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery will carefully assess your situation. They will consider factors such as the location of missing teeth, the health of your remaining bone, and your overall health status.
Final Words About Addressing Jawbone Loss
At Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our experienced surgeons are here to guide you through such difficult times and decisions. Each patient is unique, and we create a personalized treatment plan, provide comprehensive care, and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety and satisfaction.
To sum up, addressing jawbone loss might seem daunting at first, but please know that modern surgical options can provide excellent results. Your improved oral health can lead to enhanced confidence, better nutrition, and an overall higher quality of life. It’s all about getting back to a radiant and healthy smile with expertly guided treatments from Minnesota Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Read reviews and more at MNOFS’ Google Business Profile in Minneapolis, Wilmar and Sartell. Then, contact us today to get started!