How To Stave off Jaw Bone Deterioration and Maintain Oral Health

A woman suffering from a toothache
  • Get dental implants to avoid jaw bone deterioration and ensure oral health for many years to come.
  • Improve lifestyle habits by eating nutritious foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, stopping smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. 
  • Wear a custom mouth guard at night to prevent grinding or clenching of teeth and protect the jaw bone deterioration. 
  • See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to identify any potential issues earlier on.

Jaw bone deterioration is a serious condition that can lead to further health problems, such as difficulty eating and speaking. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent or slow down jaw bone deterioration. With proper care and preventive measures, you may be able to avoid facing serious issues related to deteriorating jaw bones.

Get dental implants.

Dental implant on blue background

Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and fuse with the bone cells to form a secure base for artificial teeth. Getting dental implants is an important procedure since it not only restores one’s smile but also prevents jaw bone deterioration due to missing teeth. The process of implanting involves many steps, starting with the preparatory stage, where the patient is assessed to decide whether they are a suitable candidate for this procedure.

Then, x-rays and impressions of their teeth and jawbone will be taken. After undergoing surgery like this, regular follow-ups are necessary to ensure that the implant is healing properly and that there are no signs of infection or injury. This process can help maintain healthy jawbone integrity and protect oral health for many years if done correctly.

Improve your lifestyle habits.

Improving your lifestyle habits can greatly impact the health of your jaw bones. Here are some tips on how to do it properly.

Eat Nutritious Foods.

Calcium is important for forming and sustaining strong bones, while vitamin D will help with the absorption of calcium by your body. Together, these nutrients can ensure good bone health and promote relaxation of the facial muscles around the jaw, further preventing bone loss. Furthermore, eating fortified dairy products like yogurt or cheese provides energy and is beneficial for slowing down the aging process and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Additionally, opting for fruits and vegetables instead of junk foods will offer your mouth a much-needed supply of essential minerals and vitamins to help combat any bacterial growth that could damage your jawbone. Eating nutritiously is necessary to keep your jawbone strong, so stay informed about the recommended dietary calcium and vitamin D intake to maintain robust oral health!

Stop Smoking.

Woman breaking several sticks of cigarette

Stopping smoking has many benefits beyond improved physical health. It can also help to prevent jaw bone deterioration. Jaw bone deterioration is the thinning and weakening of the bone tissue in the jaws, which can result from smoking over time. This thinning weakens jaw bone strength, making smokers more susceptible to dental implant failure and periodontal diseases.

To avoid this and other related issues, quitting the habit is the only real solution since most medications used to treat and manage dental diseases are ineffective against jawbone deterioration specifically caused by smoking.

Proper cessation techniques, such as utilizing nicotine replacement therapies to decrease cravings or seeking professional help like counseling, can be beneficial during recovery. Exercising regularly and eating healthy can restore stronger, healthier jaw bones and teeth.

Maintain a Healthy Weight.

When someone has excess fat, especially around the neck and face, it will begin to put undue strain on the jaw bone, leading to fractures and other issues. Keeping a healthy weight ensures that the jaw bones are less susceptible to damage due to unnecessary weight or pressure. Eating nutrient-rich foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding sugary drinks and fast food can help to maintain a healthy weight.

Additionally, minimizing stress levels by making time for daily rest or leisure activities may also play a role in helping control body mass index (BMI). By following all these measures, maintaining a healthy weight can be achieved, thereby preventing jawbone deterioration in the long run.

Wear a Custom Mouth Guard at Night.

Bruxism can lead to chronic jaw pain, facial muscle pain, headaches, receding gums, broken teeth, damage to the jaw joint, and even premature wear of the teeth’s enamel. Wearing a mouth guard at night is important for protecting teeth from deterioration due to grinding and clenching since it provides a barrier between the teeth.

People may find wearing a custom guard all night more comfortable than traditional over-the-counter guards and, therefore, more likely to use them as prescribed. Custom mouthguards are designed based on a patient’s dental records and specific needs to create maximum comfort and effective protection for long-term coverage.

These mouthguards should be fitted properly by the wearer’s dentist for the most effective protection; furthermore, they should be washed with soap and water after every use to keep them clean and prevent any growth of bacteria on them.

See Your Dentist Regularly.

Regular cleaning and checking allow the dentist to identify any potential issues before they become more serious, including checking for gum disease or tooth decay. Additionally, regular visits help protect against jaw bone deterioration, which can develop when a missing tooth is not replaced promptly.

Leaving the gap unfilled decreases the stimulation of the jaw bone, leading to recession and potential loosening of other teeth in the surrounding area. It’s important to visit your dentist regularly so that they can make sure no underlying problems are contributing to jaw bone deterioration, helping you maintain optimal oral health.

These are just a few of the steps you can take to prevent jaw bone deterioration. Establishing and consistently following these routine habits will best equip you to maintain strong, healthy jaw bones for years ahead.

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