A severe form of gum disease which impacts millions of adults each year is called periodontitis. When gum disease progresses to this stage, it often results in bone loss. This specifically occurs in the bone which secures the teeth in their place. For some patients, this can cause the teeth to become loose or completely fall out. With missing teeth, the jaw bone fails to be stimulated. This can result in the retraction or resorption of the jawbone. In cases of bone loss, dental professionals may encourage the patient to undergo a bone graft procedure. Bone grafts are commonly used to aid in new bone growth or in replacing bone which has been destroyed from periodontitis.
Bone Loss
When gum disease is left untreated, it can result in the loss of gum tissue and teeth. Severe gum disease can cause additional issues such as bone loss in the jaw. Periodontitis is a chronic bacterial infection impacting millions of adults annually. More specifically, the infection impacts the bone and gums which support the teeth. When patients neglect their oral hygiene, it allows bacteria in the dental plaque to thrive and proliferate. This can result in inflammation, increased sensitivity, and bleeding. The term gingivitis is used to describe the early phase of gum disease. During this stage, the gums are often swollen and bleed easily.
When bacteria and toxins infect the gums, periodontitis can develop. The bacteria can also invade below the gum line. When this occurs, the tissue below the teeth is infected. Once a patient has reached this severe stage of gum disease, the bone and tissues which secure the teeth in place can be destroyed. When periodontitis is left untreated, it will progress until the teeth become loose and fall out. In adults, periodontal disease is the primary cause of tooth loss. Periodontal surgical procedures can help to reverse the effects of periodontitis. Bone grafting can also be completed to aid in replacing bone loss. The grafts can also be used to provide adequate support to dental implants.
Some of the most common symptoms associated with gum disease include:
* Persistent or worsening bad breath
* Foul taste in the mouth
* Teeth which are loose
* Discomfort in the mouth and consistent pain
* Increased sensitivity
* Gums which are swollen or easily bleed
Bone Grafts
In cases where significant bone loss has taken place, the periodontist may need to place a bone graft. This is done to aid in regenerating the bone needed to support the teeth and keep them in place. When performing a bone graft, the periodontist will fold back the portion of the gums which has been impacted by the infection. Bacteria covered calculus, gum tissue which is infected, and rough tooth surfaces are cleaned or removed. Bone graft material is then strategically placed and designed to promote new bone formation. Bone grafts are commonly used to repair the damage from gum disease. In addition, bone grafts can help a patient in maintaining their natural teeth.
Dentists often suggest dental implant for replacing missing teeth. The process for receiving dental implants is very involved and includes a surgical component. The first phase of the process involves surgically placing an implant into the jaw bone. The implant will serve as the root for the artificial tooth. The bone naturally fuses to the implant forming an extremely secure base. Patients must have an adequate amount of healthy bone structure to support the implant.
A bone graft is typically performed for patients who desire dental implants but lack an adequate amount of bone. The dental professional typically removes a small piece of bone from another area of the jaw or another part of the body such as the hip. The removed piece of bone is then placed in the jawbone. In some cases, artificial bone may be used. The bone must be completely healed before proceeding to the implant process. The healing process typically takes a few months. The body eventually grows new bone that replaces the graft material or transplanted bone. In cases where minor bone grafting is needed, it can often be done at the same time as the implant surgery.
There are numerous different types of bone grafts which can be used and differ based on the material. Types of bone grafts include the following:
1. Autograft: bone is extracted from the patient. The bone used is typically removed from the back of the jaw or the hip bone
2. Allograft: bone is provided by another human donor
3. Alloplast: a synthetic material is used which usually contains calcium, phosphorous and hydroxyapatite
4. Xenograft: bone is sourced from an animal such as a cow
A patient should discuss bone grafting options with the dentist to determine which solution best meets their needs.
Mesh filter membranes and tissue-stimulating growth factor proteins can also be used to stimulate the regrowth of bone and tissue. These materials promote the regeneration of bone or tissue in the targeted area. These materials can even be used in addition to a bone graft. Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) involves the periodontist inserting a small piece of mesh between the gum and bone. This takes place after a bone graft procedure. The goal is that mesh will help prevent the gums from growing into a location where new bone is desired. Through recent enhancements in dentistry, additional techniques and materials continue to be developed in the treatment of bone loss.
GTR and bone grafting are both considered advanced procedures used in extreme situations. The procedures are often used to treat the negative side effects associated with gum disease. Studies continue to be conducted regarding how these types of procedures could aid in maintaining a patient’s natural teeth.
Patients must practice good oral hygiene in order to avoid bone loss and prevent gum disease. Good oral hygiene regimens include brushing the teeth twice daily and daily flossing. Patients should also visit the dentist at set intervals for professional exams and cleanings.
If a patient has periodontal disease, they must be extra diligent in their oral hygiene. A healthy diet should be maintained along with completing routine periodontal treatments. By following the dentist’s recommendations and maintains good oral health, periodontal disease can be managed and the patient can increase the likelihood of maintaining their natural teeth.