The following are the most common causes for jawbone deterioration and loss that may require a bone grafting procedure:

Tooth Extractions – when an adult tooth is removed and not replaced it can cause deterioration of the jawbone. Our natural teeth are embedded in our jawbone and when the tooth is removed, the portion of the jawbone that anchors the tooth is no longer getting stimulation. This causes the bone to deteriorate. The rate of the bone deterioration depends on the individual, but usually occurs within the first eighteen months after the tooth is extracted and will continue to gradually deteriorate throughout your life.

Sinus Deficiencies - when molars are removed from the upper jaw, the air pressure from the air cavity in the maxillary sinus can cause resorption of the bone that use to hold the teeth in place. This can cause a condition called hyper pneumatized sinus, which means that the sinuses become enlarged. If this happens, then Dr. Scarbrough can do a procedure called a Sinus Lift that can correct the enlarged sinus.

Tumors - Benign facial tumors can grow large and can require the removal of a portion of the jaw. Malignant mouth tumors almost always spread into the jaw, and if this happens it would require removing a section of the jaw. If this happens, then reconstructive bone grafting is required to help restore the function of the jaw.

Periodontal Disease - this is an ongoing infection of your gums that will gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Periodontitis is affected by the bacteria that adheres to the tooth’s surface. If the disease progresses, the supporting gum tissue and bone that support the teeth deteriorates. The progressive loss of bone can lead to loosening and teeth loss.