The Importance of Teeth for Jawbone Health

When one or more teeth are missing it can lead to bone loss at the jaws. This loss of bone can develop into additional problems, both with your appearance and your overall health. You may experience pain, problems with your remaining teeth, altered facial appearance, and eventually even the inability to speak and/or eat normally.

Dr. Ismail discussing details with a patient

In the same way that muscles are maintained through exercise, bone tissue is maintained by use. Natural teeth are embedded in the jawbone and stimulate it through activities such as chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the bone no longer receives the necessary stimulation it needs and will begin to resorb. The body no longer uses or “needs” the jawbone, so it deteriorates.

Potential Consequences of Tooth and Jawbone Loss

  • Problems with remaining teeth, including misalignment, drifting, loosening, and loss
  • Collapsed facial profile
  • Limited lip support
  • Skin wrinkling around the mouth
  • Distortion of other facial features
  • Jaw (TMJ or temporomandibular joint) pain, facial pain, and headaches
  • Difficulty speaking and communicating
  • Inadequate nutrition as a result of the inability to chew properly and painlessly
  • Sinus expansion