Problems Experienced When Jaw Bone Shrinks

Posted on Jul 05, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When natural teeth are lost, there are a number of ways to restore the appearance of your smile. However, there is only one way to maintain dependable, secure biting and chewing – Dental Implants. Here’s why…

Natural tooth roots provide stimulation to the jaw bone, which preserves its ability to maintain a healthy mass. When tooth roots are missing, the jaw bone loses the stimulation needed to keep blood flow active. Over time, this results in ‘resorption,’ or a decline in bone mass.

The resorption process causes the gum ridge to flatten. The pressure on the gum ridge from wearing dentures actually accelerates the rate of bone loss. For those who sleep in their dentures, this 24/7 pressure speeds the rate of bone loss even more.

When a denture is first made, it is designed to conform to the unique contours of the bone ‘arch’ where tooth roots were once positioned. The reason that denture wearers commonly experience movement or slips is because the denture’s foundation is shrinking. Even with the help of adhesives or pastes, this dwindling foundation means a denture is likely to move while eating.

A new denture may fit securely for the first five years. However, as the jaw bone continues to lose height, relines may help on a temporary basis. As bone loss continues, relines to your denture or partial will need to be done at more frequent intervals each time.

One year after natural teeth have been extracted, denture wearers average losing about 25 percent of this bone ridge. After three years, the average decline in bone is approximately 60 percent. Biting becomes risky. Chewing is more difficult. The biting force of natural teeth is about 250 lbs. while an average denture wearer is able to apply about 5 lbs. of force.

Want to see the extent of resorption you’ve experienced? Begin by looking in the mirror without your denture in place. Your mouth may appear sunken-in with your chin more pointed than before tooth loss. Other signs of bone loss include deep wrinkling around the mouth, the corners of the mouth turning downward (even when smiling), and jowls from the detachment of facial muscles.

There is a solution to the ongoing challenges of bone loss. Today’s implant dentistry offers excellent options to replace missing teeth and overcome the problems associated with bone loss (even when bone loss is severe). Implant systems such as All-On-4 can be positioned in minimal bone using just four implants. Placed at specific angles, All-On-4 can support a full, non-removable denture in minimal bone.

There are many reasons so many adults are now choosing Dental Implants for tooth replacement.  They halt the process of bone loss while restoring chewing comfort and confidence when speaking or laughing.

A Periodontist specializes in the treatment of gum tissues as well as the diagnosis and placement of Dental Implants. Although the failure rate of Dental Implants is rather low, having a successful outcome can greatly depend on the Doctor who selects and places your implants.

Begin with a consultation by calling 828-274-9440. I’ll be happy to answer your questions and discuss our many comfort options, including Oral and I.V. Sedation.

Why Tooth Loss Causes Your Jaw Bones To Shrink

Posted on Jun 22, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The presence of natural teeth is vital to the health of upper and lower jaw bones. Tooth roots create stimulation to the bone, which stimulates blood flow so the jaws maintain a healthy mass. Without tooth roots, the lack of stimulation causes the bone to slowly decline. This process is known as “resorption.”

Resorption causes the gum ridge to flatten out over time, giving your denture a foundation that continually shrinks. Regardless of the amount of denture adhesive applied, the denture will begin to move while eating, causing uncomfortable rubbing. Laughing becomes overshadowed by the fear of embarrassing slips.

The pressure from wearing dentures actually accelerates resorption, especially for those who sleep in their dentures. The 24/7 pressure speeds the process of resorption to an even greater degree.

When dentures are first made, they may feel secure for the first five or so years. However, as resorption continues, relines help only on a temporary basis. As bone loss progresses, relines will last at less frequent intervals each time.

On average, denture wearers experience a 25% bone loss one year after natural teeth have been extracted. Three years later, 60% of the bone is gone. While natural teeth provide a biting force of 250 pounds, the average denture wearer bites with about 5 pounds of force.

Want to see the extent of bone loss you’ve experienced? Remove your denture and look in the mirror. Do you see deep wrinkles around the mouth? Do the corners of your mouth turn downward, even when you smile? Does your mouth appear collapsed inward with a pointed chin? Have jowls formed on the sides of your face?

New designs in Dental Implant systems can overcome even severe bone loss. Types like All-On-4 can be placed in minimal bone using just four implants. Using specific angles, the All-On-4 system can support a full denture that is non-removable.

When a greater level of bone mass is necessary, procedures can restore the bone to a healthy level. Bone generating materials or a bone graft can be performed prior to implant placement. A “sinus lift” may be advised so sufficient bone exists between the upper jaw and sinus cavity.

Regardless of the procedure or implant type selected, a dental specialist who is trained and experienced in all implant types is the best choice for a successful result. A Periodontist is a dental specialist with advanced training in the diagnosis and placement of Dental Implants as well as bone rebuilding procedures.

Dental Implants restore chewing comfort and the ability to speak and laugh with confidence. Today, bone loss doesn’t necessarily prevent you from enjoying these benefits! Begin with a consultation by calling (828) 274-9440.

What A Dental Implant Is, And Isn’t

Posted on Jun 21, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Contrary to most assumptions, a Dental Implant is not a replacement tooth. The ‘restoration,’ or tooth that is supported by an implant consists of a crown, bridge teeth or a full denture. To understand a Dental Implant “system,” it is helpful to know its various components.

Although there are different types of implant systems, all work in in a similar fashion. An implant is a hollow, screw-like cylinder. The process begins by placing the implant in the jaw bone at a strategic point in the jaw bone. Once placed, the implant is covered over with gum tissue. For several months after, the implant goes through a ‘healing’ process. While this typically takes several months, you can wear a denture or temporary so you are never without teeth.

In this stage, the bone grows around the implant in a process known as “osseo-integration.” This secures the implant in the bone, which recreates the foundation of natural tooth roots to give biting and chewing stability. Once healing is complete, a post is secured inside the hollow core of the implant. This post will support your final replacement tooth or teeth.

A successful outcome in any Dental Implant treatment is in the selection and placement process. A Periodontist has specialized training in the diagnosis and placement of all types of implant systems. This means the implant system recommended for you will be the type most suited to your individual needs and goals.

An important aspect of implant success also relies on the assessment of bone mass. When the upper or lower jaw has insufficient bone to support the implant being placed, there is a risk of failure. Again, an implant requires careful selection and placement to be able to support the replacement teeth being attached. In some cases, as few as 4 – 6 implants can support a complete arch of teeth. This decision is best left in the hands of a periodontal specialist.

Severe bone loss can require bone rebuilding procedures prior to implant placement. This can be done by bone grafting or the application of a bone-rebuilding material. In some cases, particular implant systems designed with unique angles can provide support with minimal bone depth with no bone rebuilding necessary.

The best implant system for you can be determined after an examination. During this time, I’ll recommend options best for you and explain the process. Call (828) 274-9440 to schedule an appointment. Or, ask to begin with a Consultation.

How Wearing Dentures Causes A Declining Jaw Bone

Posted on Dec 08, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Tooth loss has many frustrations. Dentures contribute to discomfort, reduced confidence, decreased ability to chew and enjoy foods, and a daily inconvenience.  Unfortunately, an underlying occurrence is taking place with even greater impact to one’s life … bone loss.

Bone loss, over time, contributes to deep wrinkling and a sunken-in appearance around the mouth, a ‘witches chin,’ jowls, and a severe reduction in biting strength. When tooth roots are missing from the jaw, the bone begins to shrink. This continues and is even accelerated by the pressure of dentures.

An indication of bone loss is the change in the fit of your denture.  Dentures that once fit securely will eventually loosen due to the change in the bone. As the bone shrinks, the ridge under the denture begins to flatten. Over time, the denture has less of a foundation, decreasing one’s ability to bite and chew comfortably. While the biting strength of natural teeth is 250 pounds, a denture wearer bites with 5 to 6 pounds.

This is among the reasons why so many adults are choosing Dental Implants to replace missing teeth. Dental Implants recreate the presence of tooth roots, halting bone loss and restoring the strength of your bite. There are many types of implants designed to accommodate individual needs. For those who have lost a great deal of bone depth, procedures are available to rebuild the bone or certain implant types can overcome minimal bone base.

Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime and to bring you as much pleasure and comfort as natural teeth. To discuss your options, call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation. During this time, you’ll learn the implant type(s) best for you and have your questions answered thoroughly.