Jaw Bone Health
When one or more teeth are missing, it can lead to jawbone loss at the site of the gap. This loss of jawbone can develop into additional problems, both with your appearance and your overall health. You may experience pain, problems with your remaining teeth, and altered facial appearance, and eventually even the inability to speak and eat normally.
ARKANSAS ORAL & FACIAL SURGERY
We aim to provide you with all the information you need so that you know you’re making the right decision.
Necessary Stimulation for the Jaw Bone
In that same way that muscles are maintained through exercise, bone tissue is maintained by use. Natural teeth are embedded in the jawbone, and stimulate the jawbone through activities such as chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the alveolar bone, or the portion of the jawbone that anchors the teeth in the mouth, no longer receives the necessary stimulation, and begins to break down, or resorb. The body no longer uses or “needs” the jawbone, so it deteriorates and goes away.
Consequences of Tooth and Jaw Bone 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 (temporomandibular joint TMJ) pain, facial pain, and headaches
- Difficulty speaking and communicating
- Inadequate nutrition as a result of the inability to chew properly and painlessly
- Sinus expansion
Arkansas Oral & Facial Surgery Center Locations
Springdale
2926 West Huntsville Avenue
Springdale, AR 72762
Phone: 479-582-3000
Fax: 479-927-3085
springdale@arofsc.com
Fayetteville
3996 N. Frontage Road (near the intersection of Joyce and College Blvd)
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Phone: 479-582-3002
Fax: 479-582-2840
fayetteville@arofsc.com