When a tooth is beyond saving, extracting it can be an essential part of restoring and maintaining the health of your mouth. With that in mind, what keeps our jawbone healthy is the pressure from the roots of the tooth on the surrounding tissue. So, when the tooth and roots are missing, there is no stimulation within the tissue to regenerate new cells, consequently leading to a weakened jawbone. While it may seem like something to take care of down the road, bone loss can happen faster than you think – sometimes in as little as six weeks. This deterioration can potentially cause gum recession, misalignment, infections, and other oral conditions. Below, our experienced dentist, Dr. Jimmy C. Wu, shares tips on the most effective ways to prevent this type of bone loss after a tooth extraction.Â
Ultimately, whether you have a single tooth or multiple teeth extracted, the best way to maintain healthy oral stability is to replace the missing structure with something that imitates the form and function of natural teeth. Therefore, your dentist may recommend high-quality, custom-designed dental implants. This advanced restorative dental option can serve as an artificial tooth root, fusing to the jawbone to become a permanent part of your mouth. The dental implant itself is a thin, durable titanium post that ranges between 2mm to 6mm, depending on the location of the missing tooth, spacing, and sufficient bone density. Once the post is inserted into the jawbone to mimic the root, it will take a few months to adequately fuse to the bone (a process called osseointegration) before it is ready for a custom dental crown to be securely attached to it. The crown is color-tinted to match the surrounding teeth so that the completed restoration blends in to look and feel natural.
Although dental implants are often an ideal solution, not everyone is a candidate, so it is important to understand how to prioritize your oral health after a tooth extraction in order to minimize bone loss. Good dental hygiene is one of the best ways to nurture your teeth and gums with daily brushing and flossing, routine professional teeth cleanings, and regular dental examinations. All of these maintenance tips help to combat periodontal disease (gum disease) and can reduce the risk of bone loss over time. Another key factor is to stop the use of all tobacco products, including vaping, as well as cigarettes and chewing tobacco. Avoiding any form of tobacco is essential to protecting your mouth against periodontal disease and other health conditions.Â
To learn more about dental implants and other restorative dentistry treatments after tooth loss, or to schedule an office visit with Dr. Wu, please contact us today.
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