When your jaw bone doesn't get the right type of pressure or use, the bone becomes weak. This can lead to resorption, which is where your jaw bone begins to resorb itself. This is when your body believes it no longer needs the bone, and tries to remove the unnecessary bone from the area. If you have a missing tooth, this can begin the process, as the area of the gums and jaw where that tooth once was no longer gets the same pressure and use. Here are some signs that your jaw may have already begun the process.

Resorption Signs to Be on the Lookout For

When you go and see your dentist every six months like you are supposed to, they should be taking x-rays at least once per year. When those x-rays are compared, your dentist should be able to see where bone is being lost. This is one of the most surefire ways of being able to see that your jaw is struggling with resorption.

Having teeth that become loose when the rest of your mouth is healthy can also be a sign of resorption. If you have gum disease, that can cause your teeth to become loose. However, if your mouth is healthy and you are still getting loose teeth, it could be due to loss of jaw bone. This is especially true if the tooth is near where a missing tooth is located.

Jaw resorption is something to worry about, as it can affect the health of your entire mouth. Don't take the signs as nothing to worry about. Instead, go in and see your oral surgeon as soon as possible. They can decide if you should have a bone graft to restore the bone, or if another type of treatment would be a better option. If you have any questions, or if you would like to learn more, please call us today at 705-302-0357.