How Can I Restore Bone and Facial Structure After Tooth Loss?

Tooth loss and gum disease can significantly impact jawbone density and facial structures due to the lack of stimulation that roots of natural teeth provide to the jawbone. When teeth are missing, the bone in the affected area begins to atrophy and deteriorate. This bone loss can lead to changes in the facial structure, such as a sunken appearance of the cheeks and lips, altering the overall facial aesthetics and potentially leading to signs of premature aging. 

At Restorative and Implant Dentistry of Bayside, Dr. Sameet S. Sheth and Dr. Arpita S. Patel are experienced prosthodontists who offer advanced reconstructive procedures such as bone grafting and maxillofacial prosthetics, as well as an array of other options, that can help restore bone and facial structure after tooth loss. For many individuals, these treatments can be crucial for both aesthetic and functional improvement. Here are some additional details on procedures and techniques available at our practice that can address these issues: 

• Bone Grafting – This surgical procedure is often recommended when patients do not have enough bone mass present to support dental implants. Bone grafting typically involves adding a small piece of bone taken from elsewhere in the individual’s mouth or body. In some cases, a synthetic or alternative option can be utilized. The graft may help provide sufficient bone structure for implants or other dental prostheses. 
• Ridge Preservation – After tooth extraction, ridge preservation techniques can be used to minimize bone loss at the extraction site. This approach involves rebuilding the height and/or width of the ridge by adding bone graft material to the jawbone. Afterwards, a dental implant may be placed to restore smile appearances. 
• Sinus Augmentation – Tooth loss and gum disease can cause the upper jawbone to deteriorate and negatively impact facial structures. Sinus augmentation can help rebuild those portions of the mouth and is performed by accessing the sinus cavity, where bone grafts are then placed. 
• Guided Bone Regeneration – Also known as GBR, guided bone regeneration helps increase jawbone volume. To encourage bone regeneration, bone grafting material is added to the surface of the existing bone and once healed, dental implants may be placed. 
• Socket Grafting – Sometimes referred to as socket preservation, the socket grafting procedure can help prevent further bone deterioration following tooth extraction or tooth loss. This treatment focuses on the socket that is eventually left empty once a tooth is gone. Socket grafting can work to prevent the surrounding bone from significant deterioration, making it more viable for a dental implant in the future.  
• Maxillofacial Prosthetics – To help restore bone and facial structures, Dr. Sheth and Dr. Patel also utilize maxillofacial prosthetic devices. These options can help repair palate defects, restore structures affected by cancer and cancer removal surgeries, and conditions such as ectodermal dysplasia. 

For more information about restorative procedures, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sheth or Dr. Patel, please contact our office today.